Mt Difficulty

The Mt. Difficulty winery is situated on the famed Felton Road in the sub-region of Bannockburn, Central Otago. Established in 1992, the original group comprised owners of five different vineyards who shared the desire to produce a wine collectively. Today, the company owns some of the oldest vineyards in the region, comprising of six individual plots totaling 40 acres. Within these regions, one finds ideal conditions for the cultivation of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and the aromatic white varietals Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. The winery's philosophy is to "combine ethical viticulture with minimal intervention allowing the wine to express its personality and reflect its home." Heading up that decree is head winemaker Matt Dicey, who joined the team in 1999. Dicey, a fourth generation winemaker has a Masters Degree in Oenology and Viticulture, making him attuned to Bannockburn's unique microclimate. In the shadow of Mount Difficulty itself, the vines are sheltered from excess rainfall and humidity, yet receive ample sunlight and a long, cool growing season.