At the end of January, Wellington plays host to the fifth NZ Pinot Noir Celebration. An amazing event, which I am very much looking forward to attending. This event started in 2001, when a group of winemakers decided to put their Pinot Noir (and the whole countries Pinot Noir) forward for a critical review of sorts. This event now occurs every three years and has become a must do for those serious about wine around the world.
Glengarry were the retail partner for the 2010 event and are thrilled to be associated with this event as the Retail Partner for 2013. We see it as a very important association and a way that we can support our local industry. In 2010 it was an inspirational four days of tasting, seminars, lots of great food and it goes without saying, superb Pinot Noir and the 2013 event is shaping up to reach new heights.
For the 2013 event, which starts on Auckland Anniversary day -28th January, there are 112 wineries participating. The first three days are dedicated to exploring 5 key regions and reviewing them in depth, 300 wines will be tasted and discussed. A host of winemakers will be on hand, passionately presenting their regions and ensuring we are well versed in its virtues. As well as our local industry stars, an impressive collection of international speakers have been secured by Pinot noir 2013’s proactive board, who are chaired by Villa Maria Group’s Head Winemaker – Alastair mailing MW. The International Guests include Jasper Morris MW, Tim Atkins MW, Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Emmanuel L.T. Bourguignon and Ned Goodwin MW. To get things underway, the initial address and Welcome will be from NZ actor and wine grower- Sam Neill.
The final day of this event is going to be amazing, there’s a Grand Burgundy Tasting followed by a NZ Pinot Noir Grand Tasting. Then to finish the whole event off – a party on the Wellington waterfront. I will be joined in Wellington by Jak Jakicevich, Regan McCafferey and Meredith Parkin, you’ll be able to follow the event here, on aboutwine.co.nz as we blog our way around it and update you real time via twitter . You can also join us there in person – there is a public tasting on Wednesday 30th January – details here . 