Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Central Otago’s Gibbston Valley, Coal Pit Wines attest to the artistry of winemaking and a commitment to sustainability and authenticity. In this month’s blog post, I had the pleasure of chatting with Anika Willner, the winemaker behind this artisan vineyard. With a focus on organic practices and a passion for exploring new horizons in winemaking, Anika shared her insights on what makes Coal Pit special, as well as her vision for the future.

 

When asked about the vineyard that nurtures her grapes, Anika describes Coal Pit Vineyard as a 12-hectare gem in the heart of Gibbston. “We have 7 hectares dedicated to Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc vines that date back to 1994, some of the oldest in Gibbston,” she explained. The vine age gives the wines an intense aromatic profile and strong minerality, thanks to the vineyard’s glacially formed schist-based soils.

What truly sets Coal Pit apart is that it is one of the few vineyards where the entire winemaking process in Gibbston, from handpicking the grapes to crafting the wine, occurs on-site. This connection from vine to bottle enhances the uniqueness of their wines.

 

As the wine industry evolves, Anika sees a strong emphasis on sustainability and the reduction of carbon footprint becoming increasingly prominent. “It’s an exciting time for the industry, and our commitment at Coal Pit underlines the importance of guardianship of the land,” she stated. With her leadership in organic practices and her involvement in sustainability initiatives at a national level, Anika is poised to make a significant impact.

 

Anika takes great pride in the sustainability practices employed at Coal Pit. “We are fully organic, certified under BioGro, New Zealand’s leading organic certification agency,” she shared. This commitment extends beyond the vineyard as well. Coal Pit is engaged in a native reforestation program to protect the ecological integrity of the surrounding landscape, showcasing their dedication to being stewards of the land.

Anika’s commitment to sustainability is also reflected in her recent appointments to the Organic Wine New Zealand executive committee and as New Zealand’s representative for the Porto Protocol, an international initiative focusing on climate action in the wine industry. Through these roles, she aims to inspire other New Zealand wineries to adopt sustainable practices.

 

Looking toward the future, Anika is excited about expanding Coal Pit’s portfolio. “I have a huge passion for Chardonnay and Sparkling Wine, both of which we have been quietly producing,” she revealed. Although there’s no release date yet, she anticipates that these dynamic wines will complement the well-known Pinot Noir offerings from Coal Pit.

Additionally, with the introduction of the new Artisan range (Bendigo), Anika plans to explore beyond the traditional offerings, allowing for greater creative expression in her winemaking.

 

For those aspiring to enter the wine industry, Anika offers sage advice: “Try to work a vintage. The industry can be intimidating without experience, but a strong work ethic and passion for the product go a long way.” Her words highlight the importance of hands-on experience and dedication in the world of winemaking.

 

Ultimately, Anika wants consumers to truly enjoy Coal Pit wines in good company. “We make wines we love to drink that reflect both the place and the people who created them. Authenticity and a passion for the land are values we stand for,” she expressed. With such a heartfelt approach to winemaking, it’s clear that Coal Pit wines are crafted not just as beverages but as experiences meant to be savoured.

 

Anika Willner of Coal Pit Wines epitomises the new wave of winemakers dedicated to sustainability, joy, and authenticity in their craft. With an eagerness to innovate alongside a respect for tradition, her vision for Coal Pit not only honours the vineyard’s legacy but also paves the way for future exploration in the world of wine.

 

Check out the latest reviews of Coal Pit Wine.