New Zealand wine has captured the attention of Riedel Crystal, the 300-year-old world leader in varietal-specific glassware, resulting in the launch of a Central Otago Pinot Noir glass.
The reputation of Central Otago’s wines prompted 10th generation Georg J. Riedel to run a sensory workshop in the region in 2013 to discover the perfect glass for Central Otago Pinot Noir. Riedel Glass Owner, Georg J. Riedel, returned from Austria to launch the new glass at a media workshop tasting in Auckland today.
Unique from other Pinot Noir glasses in the Riedel portfolio, the Central Otago Pinot Noir glass accentuates the aroma and taste of the region’s typical pure fruit-focussed and intense mineral style said Rudi Bauer, spokesperson for the Central Otago Winegrowers Association. “The unique attributes and consistent quality of Pinot Noir from Central Otago has captivated critics and consumers around the world, and we’re excited about taking yet another step forward.”
Central Otago Winegrowers Association has worked closely with Riedel for over two years, and have reason to celebrate the attention their region has generated from the world-leading glass company. “Riedel brought vision and endorsement to the creation of the perfect glass to enjoy Central Otago Pinot Noir. It is an important milestone in the development and reputation of our spectacular wine region”, said Bauer.
Pinot Noir is New Zealand’s second most exported wine. There has been 30% growth in export sales of New Zealand Pinot Noir in the last five years, with 10.7 million litres exported in the 12 months to June year-end 2014. Pinot Noir is the most planted grape variety in Central Otago accounting for 77% of all plantings in the region.
The following wineries were involved in the 2013 sensory workshop: Felton Road, Mt Difficulty, Peregrine, Rippon, Akarua, Carrick, Rockburn, Quartz Reef, Maude, Mt Edward, and Amisfield.
To view a short video on the workshop process undertaken in Central Otago, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqRgbRvHYtw
