New GM at COWA
Jake Tipler's wine tourism business took him to every corner of Central Otago's wine industry, celebrating people and place, until Covid-19 desimated his client base.
Roam Central, from 26 to 29 January 2023, has been created by Central Otago Winegrowers' Association (COWA) and will feature four anchor events, including a flagship inaugural wine and food festival in Gibbston on 28 January, a selection of vineyard brunches on 29 January, and bespoke wine and food-matched meals throughout.
"Roam Central is an amazing opportunity to invigorate the local industry and will be a drawcard for wine lovers beyond our region," says COWA event manager Jo Brown.
Roam will also include a series of satellite events throughout the four days, including a biodynamic wine exploration of Bendigo, Lowburn and Bannockburn with winemakers Claire Mulholland from Burn Cottage and Rudi Bauer from Quartz Reef, who will share stories of the three subregions, as well as their own biodynamic journeys.
Roam Central is designed to shine a spotlight on the region, highlighting the terroir, local produce, flavours and people of Central Otago wine in an engaging.
"We've created an event based around themes of discovery and connection to share our love of life in Central Otago and the Southern Lakes," Jo says. "Our wine region is rewarded as one of the best in the world, and we want to throw our doors wide open and celebrate it."
26-29 January
The Events
Roam Together (Pinot Central), 27-29 January: A programme of events including master classes, cellar door tastings and cooking demonstrations.
Roam Around Town (Wine & Dine), 26-28 January: Local restaurants paired with local wineries for a unique four-course wine-matched dinner.
Roam the Valley Wine & Food Festival, 28 January: A ticketed event for up to 3,000 people at Cargo Cellar Door in Gibbston.
Roam the Vines (Brunch in the Vineyards), 29 January: A relaxed brunch at selected local vineyards.
