Celebrating Pinot Noir NZ

Pinot Noir, our most planted red grape variety, is certainly worth celebrating. Which is why for three days in February, hundreds gathered at Te Pae convention centre in Christchurch to talk (and taste) about one thing: Pinot Noir.  

While Pinot is now our second largest wine export, its popularity has not always been centre stage. However, local and international admiration has grown substantially since the 1980s. We now export more than 1.5 million cases annually.  

Featuring 79 vineyards across the country, the conference delved into connections to the land and how this connection makes our Pinot Noir unique. It explored the role of kaitiakitanga or guardianship of the land and regenerative viticulture. Finally, the conference looked at the future of the industry and New Zealand’s place on the world stage. Among the incredible list of speakers, which included top wine makers, renowned chefs, and educators, was an exclusive interview with Sarah Jessica Paker. In 2023, the US actress partnered with Invivo to create their own blend of Marlborough and Central Otago varieties.  

Fruitfed Supplies, a Gold Sponsor, believes supporting this event is extremely important to not only highlight Fruitfed’s role in the viticulture industry but also to learn from others in the market.

Mark Cairns, Fruitfed Supplies Technical Horticultural Representative from Hastings, says the opportunity to make connections is vital.

“This is an incredible knowledge sharing event. We connect to our customers, or really our friends, in the industry to learn about what is working well, what’s not, and to get a better understanding of how we can help them in the future,” says Mark.   

Aaron Thompson, a Fruitfed Technical Horticultural Representative from Blenheim, agrees. “For me this is all about telling our unique New Zealand story - from the people, the place, to the way we work. Though our country is small, our regional diversity and how we care for the land creates an incredibly exceptional product deserving of attention,” says Aaron.   

For Fruitfed Key Account Manager, Peter Mortimer, the conference is delivering key insights. “Getting together to understand our consumers perspective, how they perceive us and how we care for the land, gives us a better sense of how to produce better results for our Fruitfed customers and the industry as a whole,” says Peter.  

“This kind of insight and ability to collaborate is invaluable.”