Rua

The Skeggs family were among the first to purchase and plant vineyards in Central Otago during the mid-1990s. They have since built an enviable reputation for Pinot Noir through the award-winning wines they produce at RUA. With six vineyards, comprising 90 hectares of vines, across the Bannockburn and Pisa sub-regions of Central Otago, RUA select parcels of estate fruit ideally suited to their accessible style of cool climate Pinot Noir.

Sustainable vineyard practices are integral to the RUA ethos. Their viticulture team is mindful of treading lightly on the land and always work with an eye for the future. Regenerative projects all contribute to improving the health and balance of the estate, such as composting grape skins, mulching, soil enrichment, cover cropping, under vine weeding, replanting native plants, and sheep grazing.

Fruit for the RUA Pinot Noir is cold-soaked for several days before fermentation, during which it receives twice-daily punch-downs. After fermentation, the juice is macerated on skins for 30 days to create a fine tannic backbone. The result is an attractive, great-value Central Otago Pinot Noir, with aromatic lift and fine tannins. Awarded five trophies and 15 gold medals over the last six vintages, RUA is a testament to the quality of the estate’s fruit and the Skeggs family’s early recognition of Central Otago’s potential.