The Akarua vineyard is a unique site, measuring 52 hectares, 34.5 of which planted with vines. The estate is tucked into the foothills of the mountains rising above Kawarua River upstream of Lack Dunstan, in the midst of a breathtaking landscape. Located in Bannockburn in the Central Otago region, the vineyard occupies three west-facing terraces and enjoys intense sun all year round. This outstanding terroir lends remarkable character to the Pinot Noir in a reflection of the spectacular mountains surrounding the estate. Floral and spicy, it has a nose of raspberries and blackcurrant, while the pallet derives of black cherry.

Rockburn's 'hands-off' approach delivers a pure expression of Central Otago to your glass; an expressive nose and deeply fruited palate displaying vibrant notes of red and black cherry, rich mocha and supple, silky tannins leading into a very long finish. As always this wine shows classic Rockburn elegance, integrity and balance. Enjoy with friends over the next 4-9 years.

From Marlborough's Queen of Sauvignon Blanc, Jules Taylor Wines has a clear vision to create high quality wines which speak of their place.

At St Hugo, they craft wines that exude power and elegance, embodying the essence of their rich winemaking heritage. St Hugo Signature Collection Shiraz has the perfect balance of St Hugo's house style of power and elegance, being textural and mouth-coating with dense dark red fruits, overlaid with long fine tannins and subtle French oak. A stunning wine of intensity, elegance, tension, and purity that is complete and age-worthy.

Ruby red in colour, this wine has a bouquet of savoury red berry fruit, black cherry and vanilla that combine with aromas of black forest berries, cloves and dark violets, finishing with soft stony notes. Dry on the palate with a core of fruit, savoury tannins give it a great texture. The oak influence is obvious with baking spices, brown sugar and smokiness. Expect this wine to improve further with careful cellaring over the next 7-10 years.

Mt Difficulty is a boutique winery located in Bannockburn, Central Otago, and was named after the mountain overlooking Felton road and the southern Cromwell basin. As the vineyards are ageing Mt Difficulty are starting to see additional complexity emerging each vintage. Inviting and opulent, the palate is flush with sweet cherry & blueberry, followed by trademark earth & savoury notes and framed by baking spice and fine grained French Oak. The fruit floods through to the finish with a juicy balance, indicating acidity that will keep the wine aging well.

With grapes from the world's leading pinot noir region making a guest appearance, Church Road's award winning winemaker, Chris Scott, has hand crafted an exceptional wine that combines elegance and undeniable presence.

Upon release the wine is bright ruby in colour. There is a teasing array of vibrant red fruit on the nose including raspberry, pomegranate, cherry and plum. Spice and herbal notes, as well as a savoury underlay, add to the wine's complexity. While the palate has generous fruit weight and velvety tannins, it is balanced with refreshing acidity and a structure that gives the wine classic North Canterbury tension and pinosity.

Dark on the nose, with appealing aromatics of black cherry and bramble fruit. The palate reveals layers of florals, gentle spice, melding with notes of boysenberry and Doris plum and framed by finely realised, silky tannins and juicy acidity.