Central Otago-based Mount Michael Wines is launching a new range of affordable, artisan wines, under a new label - The Mountaineer, after more than two decades of making award-winning Pinot Noir.
The debut vintage for The Mountaineers is -in true Central Otago style, a beautiful Pinot Noir.
Head winemaker at Mount Michael Wines, Jody Pagey, hand-crafted each wine produced for The Mountaineer, ensuring excellent quality at an everyday price point.
“The process has been a great collaboration between our small team. We knew back in 2015 that the collection was missing something special. That missing link was The Mountaineer, and we are extremely excited for what the future holds,” said Pagey.
Celebrating the beauty and grandeur of the New Zealand Southern Alps, The Mountaineer Pinot Noir pays homage to the pioneering spirit and sense of adventure displayed by mountain climbers confronting the forces of nature.
Mirroring the challenges faced behind these pioneering mountaineers is the preparation, passion and commitment necessary to grow and make Pinot Noir in Central Otago.
“We are extremely proud of the wine we produce and are in total awe of our breath-taking surroundings. So much so, for every new wine created for The Mountaineer, a different photograph will sit proudly on the label of the bottle, showcasing our beautiful backyard.”
The Mountaineer Pinot Noir has been crafted from premium Central Otago fruit, sourced from a single vineyard selected for its bright fruit and balance.
“We have always taken the view that our wines should be enjoyed by all. Not just be positioned as an elite luxury. Weighing that up against the cost of production has meant our traditional collection hasn’t been affordable to everyone,” said Pagey.
The range aims to reach a new customer base and will be priced under RRP $30. The dedicated team behind The Mountaineer is set to expand its portfolio of craft wines further later this year.
