Blackenbrook Vineyards 2020 vintage
A few weeks ago Ursula Schwarzenbach asked me if I would like to visit them to taste their 2020 vintage…
Covid labour challenges in the rural sector
Well I guess we all expected the coronavirus, Covid-19, to raise it’s ugly head again and in many ways it’s…
Middle Earth Wines new release
It has taken a while but the first 2020 vintage new release wine crossed my desk, and my tongue soon…
Beat Kitchen Food Truck and Function Venue
You will find Beat Kitchen’s food truck serving beautiful burgers, croquettes and other takeaway foods prepared from scratch (including making…
Kismet Whisky Tasting and Hopgood’s Food Pairings
In keeping with my responsible drinking mantra of ‘drink less but drink better’ I have been enjoying the occasional quality…
Fine Wines of NZ List
Covid-19 restrictions have impacted the entire country, no single person or business has been unaffected during the last few months,…
Crushed Avocado, Corn Salsa and Chilli Cream recipes
These recipes from Hopgood’s & Co are designed to go with Mussel Pikelets but you can also use them with…
Mussel pikelets, corn, chilli & avocado
This week’s recipe from Hopgood’s & Co Restaurant & Bar is for Mussel pikelets, corn, chilli & avocado. Kevin Hopgood…
Rustic Cuisine
Rustic Cuisine on Rutherford St is owned by my two favourite French people, Mylene and Greg Auphan who used to…










