A Day For The Record Books

Scott and I just returned from an overnight trip to Kaikora, about 2 hours north of Christchurch. We started off the drive with a short stop and couple wineries then headed up for the night. The next day we awoke at 5am to swim with the dolphins in the area, a must do excursion! We lucked out. We were able to see the amazing snowcapped mountains so close to the sea at sunrise and swim with the wild dolphins before a major storm moved into the area a short time later. Despite the fact that I got totally seasick and had to squeeze into a wetsuit at 27 weeks pregnant, it was totally worth the amazing experience.

After a long hot shower back at the hostel we headed out of Kaikora and stopped at a few more wineries on the way back to Christchurch. We enjoyed some great Riesling and Pinot Noir at The Glenmark Vicarage, a very small winery and Bed and Breakfast in a turn of the century home. I couldn't help but think how much my mother in law would love this place as we got the personal tour from the owner. 

We made one last stop at Torlesse Winery, which put the icing on the cake for the day. By far one of the best winery experiences we've had to date, however, it didn't start off so great. The owner just got done finishing a tasting with a large wine tour group of young adults who "didn't buy anything" and after we entered the tasting room stated something to the effect of, "I detect an accent and suspect you won't be any good to me today." We then spent the next several minutes explaining that we are the type  that not only enjoys wine but buys plenty of it and are fairly knowledgeable. They quickly warmed up to us, especially after hearing that Scott is involved in the Antarctica missions, and before we knew it were helping him label wine bottles for an upcoming shipment and doing several side by side barrel tastings. Not only did we spent a ton of time there, around 3 hours, but we also spent quite and bit of money on some excellent wine that we can't wait to share with family and friends.  Thank you Kym for such a great experience.  

Kym, the owner, operator, sales manager, marketing director, and tour guide shows me how to run the hand operated bottle labeler.

Scott and Kym's son run the labeling line for a few cases.. 

Kym graciously allows us a few side by side barrel tastes - a true first for us!

We tasted the same grapes in new oak and old to see how the barrels impart different flavors at different stages of their lives.  

Next on the itinerary, a few more activities here in Christchurch, packing and getting home to our growing girls who we have been away from for too long now. I depart tomorrow, Scott the following day.  Grace, we are coming!