This morning we checked out of our accommodations in the little village of Arrowtown. Just about 10km away was Queenstown where we were staying the next two nights, so we took advantage of the local vineyards to sample the regions wines.
Combining recommendations and proximity we called on four wineries.
The first, Chard Hill, tucked on a steep hillside with a precipitous approach road that overlooked a very picturesque river valley. Spanning this valley was the bridge that Hackett first bungy jumped from, and has been a very popular site because of it.
Wines were nothing special, staff very nice and helped us plan our next few stops. The other couple that was tasting happened to be from Connecticut, “Old Greenwich” he said, in that tone that only old wealth can impart. Off we go.
Driving about 40 minutes to the north puts us in high desert, on the slopes of Mt. Difficulty. A beautiful setting for the café a tasting room. This high perspective gave a spectacular view out to the valleys and rivers below. We came, we tasted, and we purchased and moved on. Remembering that while we tasted the wines, Wineries were also chosen on the merits of their landscapes and design. This may seem odd but it did help pare down a rather extensive list of local options.
The Carrick vineyard, just down the road from Mt. Difficulty, again offered a wonderful tasting as well as a high styled landscape at its entrance. Off the rear of the building, the dining terrace was full, it seems this is the local pastime. Booking a luncheon at a local vineyard for several friends, not bad really.
Lastly we arrived at Peregrine, a vineyard also known for its radical architecture, and innovative plantings. This site also serves as a venue for a summer concert series. The staff was preparing for a performance the following day by local artist Jose Gonzalez.
One could build a whole itinerary based on wine, each region having it’s own personality, just a thought for the next time.
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