About Valli
Valli is a New Zealand producer focused on expressing distinct vineyard places. Founded in 1998 by winemaker Grant Taylor, the estate takes its name from the Italian word for valleys. That idea is particularly apt in Central Otago, where modest distances can bring marked changes in altitude, soils and temperature. Pinot Noir is at the centre of the range, with Riesling as its principal white wine.
The vineyards are in Central Otago, drawing on sites in Gibbston, Bannockburn and Bendigo, as well as the cooler Waitaki area in North Otago. Gibbston is relatively elevated and cool, set in a narrow valley; Bannockburn is generally warmer and drier. Bendigo is also a warm, dry subregion. Waitaki stands apart for its notably cool conditions and, in some sites, limestone-rich soils. Central Otago’s continental influence—dry summers, cool nights and a long growing season—allows Pinot Noir to retain perfume, colour and fresh structure.
Valli’s Pinot Noirs are designed as site wines rather than as a single, uniform house style. Gibbston may show floral notes, red fruit and finesse; Bannockburn often brings riper dark fruit and more breadth; Bendigo can offer concentration and spice. Waitaki Pinot Noir commonly has a cooler, savoury and mineral-leaning character. Winemaking aims to preserve these distinctions, using ripe but measured tannins, lively acidity and carefully judged oak.
The key wines are the vineyard-designated Pinot Noirs from Gibbston, Bannockburn, Bendigo and Waitaki. Row 36 Pinot Noir is a selection within the Pinot Noir range. Old Vine Riesling provides an aromatic counterpoint: the grape is well suited to the South Island’s cool light and naturally high acidity. Valli is therefore especially compelling for drinkers wishing to compare New Zealand Pinot Noir across origins. The wines can be enjoyable in youth, while the leading bottlings generally have scope to develop in bottle.
- Founded in 1998 by winemaker Grant Taylor
- Single-vineyard Pinot Noir from Gibbston, Bannockburn, Bendigo and Waitaki
- Central Otago has a dry, continental-influenced climate
- Waitaki is noted for cool conditions and locally limestone-rich soils
- Pinot Noir is the estate’s defining grape
All wines from Valli
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Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir
Red · Pinot Noir · Central Otago
Profile coming soon
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Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir
Red · Pinot Noir · Central Otago
Profile coming soon
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Old Vine Riesling
White · Riesling · Central Otago
Profile coming soon
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Row 36 Pinot Noir
Red · Pinot Noir · Central Otago
Profile coming soon
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Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir
Red · Pinot Noir · Waitaki
Profile coming soon
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