Does Sustainable Wine Production Make a Difference? (9 July 2009)

Pinot Noir New Zealand 2010 to Explore Sustainability

Sustainable wine production – organics – bio-dynamics – does it make a difference and do wine drinkers really want to know or even care?

Pinot Noir New Zealand 2010 will explore these complex concepts from a production and sales perspective as well as through the palate in a challenging formal tasting on Day 2 of the event.

“There has been a lot said about sustainable wine-making practices and a large number of claims made about its benefits – so we decided to put it to the test,” said Pinot Noir 2010 Chairman Alastair Maling MW.

“We’ll debate the concepts and their impact first and then get down to it through a formal tasting which will challenge our panel and delegates to see if there is a cohesive character thread in wines produced using alternative viticultural practices.”

The lead-in session will be chaired by Steve Smith MW and the formal tasting by Blair Walter. Tim Atkin MW, Ted Lemon, Andrew Jefford and Jamie Goode are among those panellists and speakers who will contribute to the debate.

In addition to sustainability the other themes of regionality and ageability will be explored. See how our distinctive geography and the passion of our winemakers creates unique and distinct regional personalities in our Pinot Noir.

“There will also be the largest ever tasting of aged New Zealand Pinot Noir from our best producers with over 50 wines to be sampled. This is a first and we’re extremely excited to put these wines to the test of our international panelists with the wine media and critiques tasting and commenting as well,” he says.

“By working with our best wineries, a stellar cast of speakers, and a programme that looks at topics that are current and pertinent to the wine industry the world over, we have created the most significant Pinot Noir event ever down under. Anyone who is serious about Pinot Noir needs to be in New Zealand in February 2010.

Numbers are strictly limited so visit the website www.pinotnoir2010.co.nz and register now for this spectacular celebration of Pinot Noir. Also – take advantage of the favourable exchange rate if you’re registering from overseas or booking accommodation and airfares.