In conversation with Carrick Winery, Central Otago, New Zealand

Carrick have been part of our wine portfolio for 20 years and their quality and consistency are hugely impressive. They are based in Central Otago, in South Island New Zealand.

Carrick's Pinot Noirs are very special. How much influence does site or winery play in creating these?

Both site and winery play significant roles in creating Carrick's distinctive Pinot Noirs. Bannockburn offers a unique terroir with its dry climate, high altitude, and alluvial soils. These factors create ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir with vibrant acidity, concentrated flavours, and complex aromas.

At the winery, we focus on traditional winemaking techniques that allow the natural characteristics of our vineyard to shine. Minimal intervention, small-batch fermentation, and careful barrel aging contribute to the depth and complexity of our Pinot Noirs. The combination of these elements results in wines that reflect the unique personality of our site while benefiting from thoughtful winemaking.

What is your favourite food match for Carrick Unravelled Pinot Noir?

Carrick Unravelled Pinot Noir is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, thanks to its bright fruit notes, balanced acidity, and smooth tannins. Our favourite food match for this wine is stone-grilled pizza topped with prosciutto, rocket, and buffalo mozzarella. The savoury prosciutto and creamy mozzarella complement the wine's fruity flavours, while the peppery rocket and crisp crust add a delightful contrast to its smooth finish. It's a perfect combination for a casual yet sophisticated dining experience.

The Pinot Blanc is new for us. When do you drink it and what with?

Pinot Blanc is a delightful addition to our range, offering a crisp and refreshing profile that's perfect for summer gatherings or relaxed evenings. Our recommended food match for this wine is a quiche made with feta, pumpkin, and fennel. The creamy texture of the quiche pairs wonderfully with the wine's bright acidity, while the flavours of pumpkin and fennel bring out its delicate fruit notes. It's an ideal combination for a light lunch or a casual picnic.

Sustainability is at the heart of Carrick. What makes this so important to you?

Sustainability is crucial for us because we believe in responsible stewardship of the land and creating wines that are not only exceptional but also ethically produced. We are committed to minimizing our environmental impact by practicing organic and biodynamic farming, reducing water and energy usage, and prioritizing biodiversity in our vineyards.

Our focus on sustainability goes beyond environmental concerns; it encompasses social responsibility and community engagement as well. We believe that by embracing sustainable practices, we can ensure the long-term health of our vineyards and contribute positively to the local community. Ultimately, our commitment to sustainability reflects our respect for nature and the future of winemaking in Central Otago.

What makes Central Otago so special, and what's your biggest challenge?

Central Otago is a remarkable wine region, known for its breath taking landscapes, high-altitude vineyards, and cool climate. The unique terroir, with its combination of continental climate and diverse soils, allows us to produce wines with intense flavours and exceptional purity.

One of the most special aspects of Central Otago is the strong sense of community among winemakers. We share a common goal of creating high-quality wines that reflect the region's distinctive character.

However, our biggest challenge is the climate's unpredictability. Spring frosts and sudden temperature fluctuations can pose risks to the vines, impacting fruit set and yield. To address these challenges, we employ various techniques to protect our vines, including frost protection measures and careful vineyard management.

Despite these challenges, the beauty and uniqueness of Central Otago make it a wonderful place to produce wines that we are proud to share with the world.