Segment: Volcanic Hills Wine
Episode: Ep 1: Rotorua
Air Date: 23th February 2020
Presenter: Trevor Cochrane

Nestled into Mt. Ngongotaha is an incredible boutique winery with an interesting twist.

• There are no wine grapes grown in the Rotorua area. Volcanic Hills are able to select their grapes from the very best regions of New Zealand, which are then crafted into wine on top of the mountain.
• The Volcanic Hills tasting rooms are based at the Skyline Rotorua, offering one of the best views of Rotorua – Lake Rotorua, Mokoia Island and the city being a special part of the Volcanic Hills experience. For just $46, guests can take a scenic return gondola trip up the mountain, as well as a tasting of 5 wines.
• Winemaker Brent Park grew up in Rotorua before leaving to go travelling, gaining wine making experience both in New Zealand and around the world.
• New Zealand is famous for its white wines in particular, with the crisp Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc being their most famous. The oak-aged chardonnay is another special wine, as well as their rose – the perfect summer drink.
• The syrah is a New Zealand take on the classic Australian shiraz, and the pinot noir is one of the most popular drinks.
• The tastings here are a bit different – you won’t be baffled by pretentious jargon, with tastings being focused around the guest’s experience.