The Devil's Staircase takes the willing down into the realm of decadence and bacchanalian delights. Here everything is pleasure, spiced up with a dash of naughtiness. The unrelenting environment tortures the vines whose twisted limbs produce wine worthy of absolution. These wines are sinfully succulent and devilishly good.

Land that was once a high country sheep station is now a flourishing vineyard. Sheep and rabbits co-existed on the land for quite some time but the sheep couldn't keep up with the nocturnal activity of the rabbits, and in the end were driven off the land. The owner of the Rabbit Ranch - Mr McGregor, planted some vines and tried unsuccessfully to reduce the rabbit population. Rabbits now run free on the vineyard and fueled by high altitude Pinot Noir, some are reputed to be the size of ponies, but that's another story... Central Otago Pinot Noirs are becoming world famous as brilliant examples of the potential of the elusive perfumed Pinot Noir grape when grown in areas of complementary terroir. Like Burgundy - cool climate, inland sites are required, close to the 45th parallel to ensure a long slow ripening period. Pinot Noir quality is very yield sensitive and Central Otago Pinot Noirs are no exception to that rule. The Rabbit Ranch Pinot Noir is made in a very soft, fruit forward, low tannin style - a wine to be savoured and supped, rather than an assault on the senses.

Established in 1994 and named after the Southern landmark range of the Wither Hills that border the vineyards, Wither Hills has always been dedicated to the philosophy that exceptional wines are created in the vineyard. Now one of New Zealand's most popular brands - Wairau Valley, at it's best. Wither Hills Pinot Noir is full of dark wild berry fruits, alluring spice and subtle earthy undertones with ripe fruit tannins. I've been making Pinot Noir at Wither Hills for twelve vintages and it's the wine variety I am most passionate about. Best matched to darker, gamey meats like lamb and venison, this is the wine for Sunday family get togethers. Sally Williams - Wither Hills Winemaker