Wild Earth was founded in 1998 by Quintin Quider, an expatriate Californian who has spent many years living on New Zealand’s South Island. They own vineyards in one of Central Otago’s finest locations, overlooking the Kawarau River at the end of Felton Road in Bannockburn.
Comprising a small but dedicated team, including winemaker Jen Parr and viticulturist Gary Crabbe, Wild Earth’s sole aim is to create the finest Pinot Noir and Riesling their vineyards can produce. Pinot Noir is Wild Earth’s speciality and their passion for the variety was recognised in 2008 when they scooped five trophies at the International Wine Challenge and Decanter World Wine Awards. More recently, Jen was named New Zealand Winemaker of the Year 2020, by Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine.
The Riesling is sourced from a block of just under two hectares of vines, planted on a broad terrace close to the Kawarau River, with full exposure to the northern sun. The fermentation was stopped through chilling to produce a specific style of Riesling, where the refreshing acidity and fruit intensity are balanced by a touch of natural sweetness from the residual sugar.
The single vineyard Pinot Noir is a blend of ferments that use a percentage of whole-bunch fruit. Aged in a mix of new and used French oak barriques for 11 to 12 months, the resulting wine is vibrant, defined by cherry and red berry fruit, wild herbs and earthy notes on a richly textured palate.
