In the dramatic alpine landscape of Central Otago’s Gibbston Valley lies Anthem Vineyard, a site that sings with cool-climate purity and poise. Planted in 2001, Anthem is part of the region’s pioneering legacy, nestled in the very valley where Central Otago Pinot Noir first took root in the 1980s.
For Sophie, this vineyard holds a special resonance. When her family first moved to Central Otago, they lived next door to Anthem, its vines a constant presence in her early wine memories. Years later, it’s a full-circle moment to craft the Blank Canvas Anthem Vineyard Pinot Noir from this very site.
We work with a small, select parcel from the Cliff Block, a very gently sloping parcel that yields fruit of elegance, fragrance, and finesse. The Blank Canvas Anthem Vineyard Pinot Noir is a wine that captures the quiet intensity of this remarkable place.
Key Facts
Subregion: Gibbston Valley
Region: Central Otago
Grows: Pinot Noir
Planted: 2001
Rainfall: 600mm / annum
Mean Annual GDD: 1059
Soils: Glacial and schist, wind-blown alluvial loess
Elevation (m): 330 m
Hectares: 5 ha
Growers: Henderson Family
Viticulturist: Jase Thomson
Soil & Climate
Gibbston is Central Otago’s coolest subregion, and Anthem is always the last vineyard we harvest each vintage. This extended hang-time allows the fruit to develop refined aromatics and delicate floral notes, hallmarks of true cool-climate Pinot Noir.
The soils are of glacial and schist origin, layered with wind-blown alluvial loess. These free-draining, mineral-rich soils contribute to the wine’s fine structure and lifted expression.
Grower Philosophy
The vineyard is fully planted to Pinot Noir, with our parcel comprising Dijon Clone 777, a clone known for its perfume and precision. Just under one hectare in size, it is meticulously managed by viticulturalist Jase Thomson under Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand certification.
The Henderson family’s commitment to quality and sustainability is evident in every vine. Their stewardship, paired with Jase’s expertise, ensures that Anthem remains a site of quiet excellence, producing fruit that speaks eloquently and with unmistakable clarity.
