Waipara Valley is a Geographical Indication and sub-region of the larger Canterbury GI, located about north of Christchurch. The valley floor provides a warm micro-climate ideal for viticulture. To the west, the Southern Alps temper the prevailing westerly winds and provide a rain shadow, and to the east, low coastal limestone ridges moderate the cool ocean winds. In the 1970s the first vineyard to be planted was Pegasus Bay, which established a reputation for its Riesling wine. The region now makes up the bulk of Canterbury's plantings with a total area under vine of , and is now the most well-known Canterbury area for Pinot Noir, of which is planted. Liam Steevenson MW has described Waipara as possibly the most exciting place to grow Pinot Noir. Good examples include Black Estate, Bellbird Spring, Fancrest Estate, Muddy Water, Greystone, Waipara Springs, Pegasus Bay and Crater Rim. Greystone Wines has won the Decanter International Trophy for Pinot Noir in 2014 and the Air New Zealand Trophy for Pinot Noir. Black Estate was awarded the Trophy for Best Pinot Noir at the International Wine & Spirits Competition in 2010. White wines of the region include varietal wines of most commonly Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay.