The name Bannockburn is the first formally registered Geographical Indication for wine in Central Otago. 

This provides legal protection for the identity of the Bannockburn sub region, both in and outside  New Zealand.

“Whilst the Central Otago brand name will always be first and foremost for the region, there has always been a concern that sub regions may also be exposed to misrepresentation," says Jake Tipler, Central Otago Winemakers Association general manager.

“Our sub regions add complexity and nuance to the Central Otago wine story and we are very keen to see the heritage of these regions protected for the future. Bannockburn will now have a higher level of protection both here and internationally and this registration helps to create a pathway for other Central Otago sub regions to register their GIs as well.”

The Geographical Indications (GI) (Wine and Spirits) Registration Amendment Bill was passed in 2006 by New Zealand Parliament. It was a significant step forward, enabling the wine industry to provide an international safeguard for New Zealand’s geographic names. The registration process is overseen by the New Zealand Intellectual Property Office.