New Zealand Wine Adventure – Reflections

Waiting to leave  Queenstown at the end of Tour 2 I have had a little bit of time to reflect on the adventure so far.

Having set off from Heathrow on 23rd October the prospect of leading three tours over five weeks was both exciting and nervewracking.

With Tour 3 about to start, I am invigorated and keen to start. Everywhere we go is fascinating in its own way, the welcome we have received has been humbling and the generosity unmatched.

Overall, we have learnt so much. With no language barrier the information from owners, winemakers, viticuturalists, cellar door managers as well as incredibly helpful drivers  has been piling in – only matched by the inquisitiveness of everyone and their enviable thirst…for knowledge. The concept of terroir is as strong here as anywhere in Europe and no one should ever think there is only one style of Sauvignon Blanc.

There are so many highlights that it would be unfair to mention any in particular.

As Tour 3 beckons I can’t wait to start. My job is to take what I have learnt so far and communicate some different perspectives while at the same time letting everyone experience the people and wineries we visit in their own way. Hawkes Bay here we come…..