Presenter Schedule
Second Tuesday Each Month
2010 SCHEDULE
January
Club Odds & Ends BBQ
February
Murdoch James
Region: Martinborough
March AGM
Tohu
Region: Marlborough
April
Matua Valley
Region: Auckland (plus)
May
LifeStyle Wines
Region: France
July
Aurum Wines
Region: Central Otago
August
Johner Estate
Region: Wairarapa
September
Clearview Estate Winery
20th Anniversary Meeting
Region: Hawkes Bay
October
Macvine International
Region: France/Australia
MID WINTER AT THE ESPLANADE HOTEL
The mid winter event was held at the gracious boutique hotel, right on the waterfront in Devonport, in the cosy atmosphere of the elegant Edwardian decor, and warmed by the roaring fire. Good food and some fine wines.
MATAKANA
The Matakana Trip included the Matakana Farmers Market, tasting with a view at Omaha Bay Vineyard and a Tasting Platter at Ransom Wines.
NARROW TABLE
The great reputation earned by ‘The Narrow Table’ was certainly undiminished by Sunday’s sublime offerings. Despite judgments being somewhat blurred by the time we reached the third course (they were reportedly a bit fuzzy following the second aperitif according to some), reception of the three courses bordered on the ecstatic.
At times, debate over the merits of the French Goats Cheese versus the Seared Tuna became a little heated, although the final the consensus at the table was that the delicate nutty flavours and creamy texture of the cheese, enhanced with the piquance of the chutney style beetroot (ably accompanied by the Waipara Riesling I should add) held a slight edge over the tuna. I disagreed, of course, as I thought that the combination of aubergine pickle and sweetly-spicy vine tomatoes complemented the lightly seared tuna to perfection. It doesn’t get better than this, I insisted.
Much to my chagrin, it did get better. One of our number elected the rabbit stew for the next course and discovered to her delight that the flavour of the rabbit, subtly done in a casserole style with carrots and celery, was delicately enlarged with the unusual and felicitous addition of muscatel raisins. The chicken with mushrooms and bacon was described as 'flavourful' with the slice of French bread as a 'crostini' style garnish providing an excellent textural contrast. The Morton Chardonnay was a perfect choice as a companion. The impeccable fresh green salads with radish leaf and 'interesting' vinaigrette provided an added, refreshing touch to all three mains. Both the Lemon Brulee dessert and Apple Tart were a brilliant blend of taste and texture.
CLUB NIGHTS
A night for Wine Enthusiasts who enjoy diverse wines, great food, good company and plenty of fun along the way. Monthly Tasting Meeting with Guest Speakers, plus a chance to purchase the wines, followed by a meal and time for socialising.
Wines presented are an interesting variety and typically not those found on 'special' in supermarkets.
CLUB & SPECIAL EVENTS
Mid Winter party and Christmas Party. Tasting day trips and Special Tasting Nights. "Foodie" evenings at a restuarant with a special theme - hopefully a new experience for many and guaranteed enjoyable time for all.
FW & FSNZ CONVENTION
One of the many wonderful days to be had with us is a two day tour of Aucklands own tropical-island paradise, including wine and olive tastings, fine dining and unsurpassed vistas. Tours includes accommodation, continental breakfast, two luncheons, wines, coach travel, ferries and connections. Click for more information to get a full run down of events.
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