MAY 2007

Matakana Wine and Grappa

Tuesday 18 May 2007
The Restaurant Courtyard - The Horse and Trap, 3 Enfield Street, Mt Eden, Auckland
Sponsored by The Vintry and Havana House.

We enjoyed a range of fine wines, a desert type wine and a Grappa all made in our backyard in Matakana, just outside Warkworth.  We learnt how Matakana is now home to 32 vineyards thanks to a dry climate which is so different from the rest of Northland. The climate around Matakana is very similar to that found by the Waiheke Island vineyards. 

Toby Gillman gave a fascinating glimpse in to the area and his passion for making fine wine.  After tasting the Gillman 2003 and 2004 vintage we could appreciate the quality that is coming from his passion.  Nicki Haller then follows with the interesting history of Grappa.  This is something not many New Zealanders get to learn about and it was a pleasure to learn and taste this unusual spirit.

Grappa - originally distilled by Italian peasants from the wine making byproduct - the left over stems, skins and seeds of the grape.  In the 60's the spirit was revitalised by making higher quality and flavoured spirit. 

1. Starting with the Gillman 2003
2. Second glass we compared the Gillman 2004
3. Third was an interesting example from Ransom
4. Last was the Mark One Grappa

Pick of the night:  Gillman 2003

Due to NZ tobacco regulations we cannot discuss the cigar of the night (A unique mild to medium bodies 7 5/8" Cuban Cigar from the newest cigar maker in Cuba beginning with V) in this forum.  We recommend you be there on the night or become a member to receive a review.

For more information on fine Noble products from Matakana, visit the following websites:
http://www.thevintry.co.nz