10 Nov 2003 -

New Zealand Pinot Noir on the world stage

Latest figures show that Pinot Noir exports have more than trebled in three years with 1.3 million litres exported in the year to June 2003, compared with 0.3 million litres in 2000.

Over 2500 hectares are now producing Pinot Noir, up from 1100 hectares in 2000, making it the biggest red grape variety planted in New Zealand and the third biggest variety overall behind Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc

Those plantings are producing 10,000 tonnes of grapes per year, and according to NZ Winegrowers Chief Executive Philip Gregan, that figure is only going to keep on growing.

“Millions of dollars are being invested in Pinot Noir and production is going up around 50% per annum. We are serious about producing good Pinot Noir and the rest of the world is definitely sitting up and taking notice.”

Philip says the increased popularity of Pinot Noir – both domestically and internationally – is due to both the quality of our wines and the enthusiasm of the people who produce them.

“Combine the winemakers’ commitment and passion with the fact that our Pinots are excellent, and we are now seen as one of two or three serious Pinot Noir producers outside of Burgundy.”

Celebrating that success, and building on it, is where Pinot Noir 2004 comes in.

The inaugural Pinot Noir 2001 was devised by the wine industry and sponsors to showcase New Zealand Pinot Noir on the world stage and to help establish new export markets.

The three-day event was hugely successful in boosting the profile of New Zealand Pinot Noir internationally and organisers expect Pinot Noir 2004 to follow suit.

Taking place in Wellington from 28 to 31 January next year, Pinot Noir 2004 will combine presentations from international winemakers and wine writers, top quality cuisine and all importantly, plentiful Pinot Noir tastings from more than 110 wineries.

International speakers include Australian wine writers James Halliday and Huon Hooke; British wine writers Tim Atkin and Robert Joseph; British Masters of Wine Jasper Morris and Phil Reedman; French wine writer Michel Bettane; US wine lecturer and Crown Wine & Spirits director Chip Cassidy, and Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa Wine Director Inez Ribustello, also from the US.

Stephen Bryant, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise’s wine sector champion, says the speakers are world class. “The knowledge they have about Pinot markets will be vital to the international expansion of our industry. We’re pleased to be providing support for Pinot Noir 2004 because it also updates key people in the international wine world on progress with our top red varietal.”

New Zealand speakers include Bob Campbell (MW) and Warren Moran, Professor Emeritus at University of Auckland.

Among the international guest winemakers are Larry Brooks (USA), Karl Heinz Johner (Germany), Michael Dhillon (Australia) and George Fromm (Switzerland), Claudio Radenti (Australia), Patrice Rion (France), Michael Wenzel (Austria), Benjamin Leroux (France) and Ken Wright (USA).

There is something for foodies as well, with Ruth Pretty creating a spectacular culinary programme, which includes ‘The Famous Pinot Noir Street Party’, and the glamorous ‘Gala Dinner’.

Delegates will also be whisked across Cook Strait for a day visiting leading Marlborough Pinot Noir wine producers on-site. There will be a tasting afternoon for the public and a special tasting session held for the trade.

Chairman of the Board of Pinot Noir 2004 Richard Riddiford says it is an event Pinot Noir lovers shouldn’t miss.

“Pinot Noir 2004 will be the international wine tasting event for those who have a passion for the variety.

“It is a unique chance to mix fantastic wine and delicious food with great company, and to meet the winemakers and growers who have made their mark in this challenging area of winemaking.”

Delegates can register on-line at www.pinotnoir2004.co.nz or contact Verve Consulting for a registration brochure on (04) 499 6909 or pinot@verve.co.nz.