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Welcome to Akarua by

Edmond de Rothschild

In October 2022 Edmond de Rothschild Heritage purchased 34.5 hectares of established vineyards belonging to Akarua, a historic and pioneering vineyard in Central Otago; an important and much-longed-for addition to the

Edmond de Rothschild Heritage range.

Across the nine estates spread over four continents, owned by Edmond de Rothschild Heritage, Arianne de Rothschild's vision remains consistent; to reveal the quintessence of the terroirs and enhance their inherent character while respecting the environment, and to elevate the wines to their highest heights: a vision her team here most wholeheartedly believe in.

Akarua's acquisition by Edmond de Rothschild came 10 years after the founding of Edmond de Rothschilds first New Zealand estate, Rimapere, in the Marlborough Valley, the country’s leading wine region renowned for its excellent Sauvignon Blanc. The vast majority of those 34.5 hectares purchased in 2022 are on Cairnmuir Road, ideally placed given its reputation as the holy grail of Bannockburn. Nestled in the foothills of the mountains and amid breathtaking scenery, the land here offers rare balanced conditions which are suited to producing very fine pinot noirs.

We welcome you to take part in our journey, enjoy a glass of Akarua or Rimapere wines and hope to see you at one of our cellar doors soon!

Reviews

Akarua Siren Pinot Noir 2018 - 95 points, Bob Campbell MW

"A barrel selection of wine made from the best parcels of the Cairnmuir Road home block. Intense, complex pinot noir with plum, dark berry, floral and wood-smoke with a signature of wild thyme. An elegant wine with layers of different flavours. Well-structured with obvious cellaring potential."

Akarua Pinot Noir 2022 - 92 points, James Suckling

“Attractive pinot noir aromas of ripe strawberries, biscuits and hints of dried flowers follow through to a medium body with creamy tannins that are polished and pretty. Drink now or hold. Screw cap.”

Rimapere Sauvignon Blanc 2024 - 94 points, Candice Chow

“Bright, even, pale yellow. This has a lifted, pure
expression, with aromas of green apple, guava,
asparagus spear, elderflower and white spice.
Medium-light bodied, aromas of guava and
green apple entwined with elderflower, white
pepper and a touch of fresh asparagus. The
mouthfeel is delicate with fine-textured
phenolics, a crisp yet soft line of acidity flows
harmoniously to a poised finish. A refined
Sauvignon Blanc with the sunny Marlborough
appeal and an irresistible fluidity. Match with
sole fish and calamari over the next 3 years.
Fermented in stainless steel, aged in stainless
steel vats for 4 months. 13% alc.”