Neatly pruned for the winter, Martinborough’s grapevines are quiet now, awaiting spring warmth to start their annual growth cycle. For the wines and wineries, however, this is a busy time.
During the recent VISA Wellington on A Plate food festival, Martinborough wines were matched with some outstanding food at numerous events and restaurants in Wellington. “We are very fortunate to have Wellington on our doorstep. Wellington on a Plate is a great way to showcase how well our fine wines complement good food,” says Sue McLeary, Wines From Martinborough co-ordinator.
“We also hosted Martinborough Musings, where leading local winemakers introduced 37 different wines over three nights. One night was all about our flagship Pinot Noir, another the diversity of aromatic Whites, and the third explored Martinborough’s Surprises – featuring some of the district’s lesser known gems.
“Guests relished the combination of light-handed wine education with an enjoyable tasting, and the very informal style of winemakers happy to share their thoughts and expertise,” she commented.
In early September Wines from Martinborough members will join with Wairarapa Wines to bring the Wairarapa Wine Harvest to Auckland. Over 20 wineries will present their 2013 releases, plus some older favourite vintages, at trade and consumer events.
“Auckland is an important market for our region’s wines, and we want to lift our visibility in New Zealand’s biggest city,” say organising winemakers Paul Mason (Martinborough Vineyard) and Paddy Borthwick (Borthwick Wines).
Sue McLeary was appointed Co-ordinator for Wines From Martinborough in August. With a background in culinary tourism and export food and beverage promotion, Sue organised the recent Olive Festival for the Martinborough Business Association
