Wine-tasting, by bicycle

Thursday, 23 October

The region I’m in is known for it’s Sauvignon Blanc grape variety and the excellent wine local wine producers make from it. I would guess there are 20-30 wineries in the 30 square kilometers around Blenheim (that could be way off, but gives you an idea…). In the morning I biked about 10km to the first stop on my self-made/make-as-you-go itinerary, and by 10:30am I was sipping my first samples of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir at Cloudy Bay vineyard…

A Scottish woman insisted on taking a photo shoot session of me while her husband was buying wine...

Just across the street I stopped at Allan Scott family wine-makers and sampled another Sauv, Pinot Noir, Riesling and some nice bubbles…

Third stop was called Hans Herzog – really liked their Sauv Blanc, but it was too early in day to make any purchases (I had two empty water bottle holders to fill for the day).

Fourth stop was incredible. Tasted five wines at Wairau River (most of which were very nice), and then enjoyed THE MOST incredible lunch I’ve had in recent memory. Smoked salmon salad with rocket lettuce and another lettuce, beetroot, feta, fried cauliflower with sesame seeds, sweet potato… it was amazing. I sat outside and stayed awhile – this was the warmest and most beautiful day I’ve had yet – reached over the 20 degree point! And not a cloud in the sky.

After lunch went to Framingham vineyards – bought a Riesling there for my wonderful hosts – and then headed across the street to Forrest Winery. A sweet Czech girl was working and was fun talking with her. Bought a Pinot Noir to share with my hosts for dinner tonight J

Who needs water when you can have wine?!

The last place I stopped was Gibson Bridge – the owners, a husband and wife – were there, and the woman gave me the full run-down on their vineyards, wine-making process and their award-winning wines.

Peddled another 10km back to Blenheim (yes, I could still ride in a straight line… haha), showered, had dinner and then walked with Diana to the local theater to see the musical show “Chess” – her son Hayden played one of the lead characters - the American chess player (the guy on the right). Was GREAT to see a show – I feel as though after today this wonderful dose of culture and performing arts will sustain me for a few more months in Cambodia!

Thank you for a wonderful time in Blenheim, Rob and Diana!! :)