Central Otago is located east of Queenstown, on the South Island of New Zealand and at the foothills of the Southern New Zealand Alps. The wine region covers a large area that is dominated by mountain ranges and many of the vineyards are planted at high altitude or, in valleys.  While the intense sunlight at higher altitudes develops higher alcohol levels in grapes, the cooler temperatures during the night preserve the freshness and acidity of the grapes. This combination results in full- bodied and vibrant Pinot Noir. Central Otago is also produces Pinot Gris, Riesling and Chardonnay.