Features

This time of year swings around to new releases of wines, and, with it, the swathe of Wine Shows that dole out the Medals – hopefully Gold – and Trophies …

A day’s judging Read More

With a vineyard in Alexandra, and a regular spot at the Otago Farmers Market on a Saturday morning at the historic Dunedin Railway station showcasing their wines, Judge Rock have been …

Judge Rock, Central Otago Read More

It is my first visit to the Yarra Valley, and I really notice a difference on this Saturday, with the day-trippers filling both the roads and Tasting Rooms across the …

Yeringberg, Yarra Valley Read More

It isn’t the first time I’ve tasted one of Ollie Powrie’s wines. A year ago I was at a mid-winter tasting of Syrahs where a bottle was opened – I …

A first tasting of Chateau Garage Read More

A trip up to Matakana earlier in the year gave me a chance to pop in and see Toby Gillman at his family vineyard. The year has been a write-off …

A visit to Gillman Estate, Matakana Read More

Although this is about the eighth box of wines that I’ve received from Laithwaites – the thrill of opening it up and pulling out the bottles to see what’s inside …

A box of discovery from laithwaites.co.nz Read More

Gone too soon. I could hardly believe the news when I saw it. Rare to find someone so admired in the industry. I have had this conversation with Ric tucked …

A series: Selling wine in New Zealand – Part 7: Ric Little Read More

I do love the chance to brighten up a winter night by tasting some fabulous wines, and couldn’t pass up a ticket to Vic Road Kitchen in Devonport, who were …

An evening showcase of Te Motu wines Read More

Regular readers may remember my report on a tasting of the same theme at around this time last year – an evening of great New Zealand Bordeaux style blends, at …

NZ Iconic Bordeaux Blends – an annual tasting Read More