Mount Pisa Vineyard
Kahiwi Wines' Mount Pisa Vineyard, first planted to Pinot Noir in 2000, is a testament to the diverse and complex terroir of Central Otago. This 5-hectare plot we call home ascends from 270m to 330m above sea level, offering a rich tapestry of soils and exposures that can be translated into wines of remarkable depth and character.
Landscape and Microclimate
Tucked in the foothills of the Pisa Range, our vineyard occupies a unique position in the landscape:
The vines are planted on slopes descending from a ridgeline, with aspects varying from east to northwest.
The imposing Pisa Range dominates our view, not merely as a backdrop but as a vital influence on our terroir. While Central Otago typically receives less than 400mm of rain annually, the mountain range channels and captures weather systems, creating a distinct microclimate with increased rainfall. Snowfall is possible on the peaks year-round, further contributing to this unique weather pattern.
Despite Central Otago's reputation as a cool climate region, our vineyard enjoys a measure of natural frost protection. The uplifted slope on which we grow allows cold air to drain away, fostering an environment during the growing season that's as close to frost-free as one could hope for in this climate. This unique topography, combined with pronounced diurnal temperature fluctuations - even during the hottest summer days - provides a natural modulation, contributing significantly to the complexity of our wines.
Soil Composition
The very ground beneath our vines tells a story of geological drama. Seismic activity has shaped our layered land, resulting in a diverse soil profile that defies simplistic categorization.
Deep, resonant clays vary in color from garnet red to orange and yellow.
Loam and silt form a major component of our soil structure.
The deeper soils are interspersed with seams of reflective quartz and schist, ranging in color from slate gray and blue to dark green.
Each soil type, each variation in texture and mineral content, contributes to the complexity and character of our wines. Different parcels express unique characteristics based on their specific aspect and soil profile.
Vineyard Layout
Vine parcels face from directly east, overlooking Lake Dunstan and the Cromwell Basin, to a north-westerly exposition back into the Pisa Massif.
The soils vary in bands mostly perpendicular to the row orientation, with the deepest clays found at the top of the vineyard.
The remarkable variation in both aspect and soil type necessitates a nuanced approach to viticulture and harvesting. We often find ourselves harvesting parcels in as many as five separate passes, carefully delineating soil expression and capturing each section at optimal ripeness.
This interplay of elevation, aspect, soil, and climate creates a terroir that is uniquely Kahiwi. It challenges us, inspires us, and ultimately, through careful stewardship and understanding, allows us to craft wines that truly speak of this remarkable place.
Mount Pisa Vineyard
1037 Luggate-Cromwell Road
RD3, Mount Pisa
Cromwell 9383