Having been awarded his MW in September, Ohashi is the first Japanese MW, and the only individual in the world to hold both titles of Master of Sake and Master of Wine. 

With his passion and expertise, he is one of fifteen guest speakers at the event, and should add yet another layer of appeal and diversity.

Pinot Noir NZ 2017 is the biggest Pinot Noir event on the planet, commencing on 31 January 2017 on the Wellington waterfront.

Over three days, Pinot Noir NZ 2017 will explore and embrace New Zealand Pinot Noir, its people and its underlying sense of place. Attendees can expect to be educated, inspired and connected to what makes New Zealand Pinot Noir unique, through an aspirational and thought-provoking programme.

Ohashi strongly believes New Zealand is one of the most perfect places to make Pinot Noir. “It is a variety that is one of the best at reflecting its terroir. Pinot Noir NZ 2017 provides me with an opportunity to share and introduce a completely Japanese Pinot Noir perspective to an international Pinot Noir audience.”

Ben Glover, Chairman of Pinot Noir NZ 2017, describes his board’s absolute delight to be able to host Ohashi in Wellington. “As the first Japanese MW it is an honour to welcome him down under. His knowledge and passion of both wine and sake will provide Pinot Noir NZ 2017 with an intriguing level of interest, and an alternative perspective of the wine we love to be in love with.”

Held every four years, 120 producers from New Zealand’s diverse Pinot Noir producing regions will come together to showcase over 300 wines, attracting some of the greatest international minds on the subject of Pinot Noir.

Registrations for Pinot Noir NZ 2017 open on 3 February 2016.