The Waitaki Valley, is a narrow and rugged wine growing region, stretching between Kurow, Duntroon, and Omarama. Though small, the region is home to distinct micro-terroirs, where variations in soil composition, elevation, and climate create wines of differing character.
Kurow is the heart of Waitaki wine. Nestled along the Waitaki River, it benefits from alluvial and limestone-based soils, producing elegant, mineral-driven wines with bright acidity. Pinot Noir from Kurow is typically silky and perfumed, while Chardonnay showcases flinty, citrus-driven elegance.
Duntroon sits at a slightly higher elevation, with some of the region’s purest limestone soils. The wines from this area, especially Pinot Gris and Riesling, exhibit vibrant aromatics, high acidity, and a distinct mineral edge, reminiscent of fine European cool-climate wines.
Located further inland, Omarama is at high altitude, and has an extreme climate, with warm days and very cold nights. This enhances flavour concentration and acidity, producing crisp, structured whites and refined Pinot Noir.
Each sub-region within the Waitaki Valley contributes to the area’s growing reputation for unique, cool-climate wines that stand apart from other New Zealand wine regions.