The bi-annual Nelson Hospitality Awards function was held at The Rutherford Hotel last Monday. These awards celebrate excellence in the hospitality industry in the region and cover a wide range of categories; some are judged awards while others are voted…

It is the time of year the floodgates are eased open spilling the wines from the latest vintage into the market place; it is a time of year I look forward to with relish because I get to try the…

In recent weeks I have attended two functions where fine-wine importers Dhall and Nash have showcased a range of wines; the first was a dinner at Hopgood’s Restaurant where American wines they import were matched with delicious Hopgood’s food with…

Pinot Noir can be a beguiling mistress for wine makers and consumers alike, she can get under your skin like no other wine. Some of the world’s greatest wines are made from this grape variety, however she can also be…

Anyone who enjoys a little too much wine occasionally will have experienced the nasty after effects of too much alcohol and for people who enjoy a moderate amount of alcohol regularly the effects are more subtle, particularly around the waistline.…

When wines from the latest vintage are released we often see new labels being launched at the same time and this year sees a new range of wines from the Villa Maria stable. Villa Maria are arguably New Zealand’s most…

If you are a follower of this column you will know that each year my partner and I help organise a fundraising dinner and auction for the Suter Art Gallery. This year one of the auction items was a luncheon…