Andrew Donaldson

The Climb

Since 2001, Andrew Donaldson has led Akitu with the kind of continuity that lets a site define the work over time. The project has been built in Central Otago with attention to precision and restraint, and the name Akitu carries its own upward pull without turning the work into noise. The emphasis sits on clarity: wine made to reflect where it comes from, with the character of Wānaka kept in view.

Today

Pinot Noir remains the center of Andrew Donaldson’s work at Akitu. The approach is built around balance and detail, with structure used to support the wine rather than dominate it. The stated aim is a profile of fine detail, efficient structure, and elegance, with fruit, tannin, and acid kept in conversation. Akitu’s wines read as an articulation of Wānaka through Pinot Noir, drawn with restraint rather than force.

Signature

Andrew's signature wines include Akitu Pinot Noir Blanc. It sits within the house style as a focused expression of balance and composure, carrying the Akitu name through the same attention to detail that defines the broader work. The wine’s strength lies in its control and in the way it holds structure without excess.

In Their Words “We find that this delivers fruit of great balance between fruit, tannin and acid – allowing us in the best vintages to produce wines of fine detail, efficient, not overbearing structure and elegance.” “Pinot Noir happens to be my favourite varietal – some may call this coincidence, I call it fate.”