Otago NZ recs please

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

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?

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

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

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

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.

St H Thanks for the recs We are staying in the south again. Next time we plan to do the North, but everyone says " they be city slickers up there, not as sophisticated as we down here:-)" Had originally planned to do the Lions Tour, but it is one big ripoff,

Next time, a bit more notice and perhaps split a case!!!