On October 17 and 18 Cardiff will host two quarter finals of the Rugby World Cup. Renowned for its Millennium Stadium, Cardiff is expected to attract 100,000 plus people. We can but hope that the All Blacks will be there as well, playing not watching.
What better opportunity for New Zealand wine to be showcased? With the support of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, NZ Winegrowers, Riedel and Roger Jones from The Harrow at Little Bedwym, two major events are planned.
One will be a walk around tasting for 150 people, the other a Gala Dinner prepared by Michelin Star Chef Roger Jones and hosted by some of New Zealand's finest winemakers.
The walk around tasting will include close to 100 New Zealand wines, celebrating the diversity of the regions. There will also be a variety of 30-minute master classes held with various topics and speakers including Steve Farquharson from Central Otago who will provide a regional overview, while Melanie Brown from The New Zealand Cellar will host a prestige wine tasting. Roger Jones will also be the host of the ultimate Sauvignon Blanc Tasting.
The Gala Dinner, which is already almost sold out will cater for 100 people and include seven courses matched with seven wines.
Roger says this is "a unique opportunity to have an intimate dinner with one of New Zealand's finest winemakers."
Showcasing the varietal depth, means Sparkling and Aromatics will be served with the first two courses. Roger says the Sparkling wines will be matched to dishes made from Exmoor Caviar including Caviar infused Macaroons with fresh crabmeat. Aromatics, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris will be matched to dishes influenced by Foie Gras.
He is keeping quiet about the other five courses at this stage.
Roger who was in New Zealand late last year has been a strong supporter of our wines and sees both events as a way of passing his enthusiasm on to others.
Meanwhile back in London, the Penthouse in New Zealand House will be specially decked out for the duration of the tournament and used for many prestigious events to promote New Zealand and create Business Links within Europe. (see https://www.nzte.govt.nz/en/the-advantage-line for more info)
Central Otago Pinot Noir will be hosting a Trade and Press Tasting on Tuesday October 20, while New Zealand Winegrowers Annual New Release Tasting will also be taking place on Wednesday October 28. This is the week leading up to the Rugby World Cup Final so lets hope that New Zealand is in it as there will be sure to be a buzz around town!
