Press Release from Central Otago Pinot Noir Celebration
5 September 2008

2009 Central Otago Pinot Noir Celebration Programme Announced

Since its inception in 2000, the Central Otago Pinot Noir Celebration has quickly established itself as one of New Zealand’s premier wine events, and a not-to-be missed date on the international Pinot Noir calendar.

Two hundred wine enthusiasts from around the world will descend on Queenstown, New Zealand the 30th and 31st of January 2009 for the seventh Celebration. The mountains, lakes and valleys of the world’s most southerly wine region will serve as the backdrop for two days of fine cuisine, fun and exceptional wine.

Confirmed guests include world-renowned wine writer Jancis Robinson MW, as well as Neal Martin from The Wine Advocate (USA).

The Celebration programme is a balanced mix of formal and informal events in a relaxed, non-competitive and casual atmosphere. The aim of the event is to educate, invoke debate and, above all, highlight Pinot Noir regionally, domestically and internationally.

Following on from the successful 2008 Formal Tasting and Historical Presentation of the Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Vivant, this Celebration we will provide a comprehensive study on the Burgundian Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC). The presentation will include an examination of the social and political environment at the time of its creation and the AOC’s contemporary applications to present-day pinot noir producers. Of course this will provide a backdrop to the tasting itself—a very special line up of exemplary Grand Cru Burgundies. One of the true highlights of the Celebration.

New to the Celebration will be a special masterclass focusing on sub-regional characteristics of Central Otago Pinot Noir. This is an optional event on the Thursday evening and limited to the first 40 registrants.

The Grand Tasting on the first day dominates the programme, showcasing the Pinot Noirs of 42 Central Otago wineries. This tasting will be divided alphabetically by winery into morning and afternoon sessions and each company will present their current vintage as well as one previous vintage.

Then there is the Cuisine! World-class wines demand world-class cuisine, and Queenstown’s top chefs will deliver just that over two gourmet-filled days. We are privileged to have an internationally renowned chef to prepare the Grand Dinner in one of the most stunning dining locations you are ever likely to experience.

For registration information, please visit our website www.pinotcelebration.co.nz

ENDS

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