Established in 2001 and set in the heart of Central Otago’s Upper Clutha basin, Akitu’s 12-hectare vineyard sits alone at 380 metres above sea level on a stunning north facing slope. Set just minutes from Lake Wanaka the semi-continental climate, with high sunshine hours, hot summers and dry autumns help to create wines of amazing fruit purity and complexity. The vineyard is entirely dedicated to Pinot Noir, block planted in 6 sections on 250 million year old schist soils; Blocks A and B were planted in 2002 with the remainder the following year. Moderate garnet with a mauve edge. Medium intensity plum fruit with subtle cinnamon spice lift defines the nose. The concentration of the primary fruit aromatics builds giving dimension. There is a background nuance of licorice and lavender florals, which elegantly fold into a gentle gamey bouquet. Generous and succulent with a supple tannin texture, the palate has a silky flow with juicy acidity giving impressive length and persistence.