"John Taverner" inquired after His Lordships whereabouts....

> St Helier, where are you?

Up here in the winterless North, enjoying the summer sun; lolling around at
the beach; temps around 30degrC; a nice 3' surf running onto the beach -
where else would I be?

> Decided to drop in on the kids, ****ed off with UK weather. So off to NZ
> 23rd.Jan

A very wise man. You are not travelling via or thru Auckland are you? We
could catch up for a glass or twelve!!!


> Only touched on Otago last time and want some recs for more in depth.

There are now nearly 50 wineries in Central Otago - all within an hours
drive - and we do drive on the correct side, don't we?

Have a look at www.winesofnz.com/otago.html for a list of some of the larger
ones to visit, bearing in mind that the word "larger" is relative. Most
wineries are very, very new and very, very small.

Rippon Vineyard (Lake Wanaka) is in a spectacular setting (their wines are
improving); Gibbston Estate (Kawarau River) is the most commercial; but a
great place to visit "after" the bungy jump, nearby.

Ian Hoare was underwhelmed by Felton Road, but they do some good stuff; I am
not sure if Mount Difficulty Wines take visitors, but their wines are pretty
good - without being special.

Akarua www.akarua.co.nz is only about 8 years old, but already producing
some noteworthy Pinot Noir.

Give me a call (mobile **64 21 251 6840 )if I can be of further assistance.

Sorry, I can't drop everything and join you.

--

Andrew "Lord" St.Helier