New Zealand wine growing region located far south on the South Island and inland toward in the central part of the island around the small towns of Alexandria, Cromwell, Gibbston, Queenstown, and Wanaka. This region evolved in the 1860s when gold was discovered, and it was about this time that Frenchman Jean Désire Feraud planted vines and began making prize-winning wines. In 1895, Bordeaux-trained wine expert Romeo Bragato identified this area’s potential as a premium grape-growing region. Central Otago is New Zealand’s and the world’s most southerly wine region. The southernmost location and high altitude also make it one of New Zealand’s coolest areas. But, being inland, Central Otago does not have a maritime climate and therefore is subject to higher fluctuations in daily and seasonal temperatures. Surprisingly, because the region is protected, days can be very warm with temperatures ranging from mid 80°F to low 90°F, but dropping dramatically overnight, all of which helps maintain the grapes’ ACIDITY levels. PINOT NOIR has overtaken CHARDONNAY as the most popular VARIETY and continues to increase its hold as the most dominant. Other varieties planted here include GEWÜRZTRAMINER, PINOT GRIS, RIESLING, and SAUVIGNON BLANC. With approximately 1,100 acres, Central Otago is New Zealand’s sixth largest growing area, right behind CANTERBURY and AUCKLAND and just ahead of WELLINGTON.