New Zealand has become a country that is very dear to us. As many of you know, we’ve been on the road for well over a year now, and NZ has definitely touched a spot in our travel heart. It has so many different terrains and vegetation; it seems like the landscape changes every 50km. The beauty of both islands is only matched by all the elegant grapes that are grown and bottled in this dynamic land.
Making the trip to New Zealand would only be a fraction of a trip if you didn’t stop to breathe in the subtle aromas of the glorious wines in which NZ is known for. Most wine people know about New Zealand’s famous Sauvignon Blancs from the Marlborough region in the south island. But, the hidden gem of NZ is the red wines from an awesome little island just east of Auckland called Waiheke.
One of the best wine experiences we had on Waiheke was at the Peacock Sky Winery where we got to have a wine AND food pairing called a degustation tasting. Peacock Sky Winery located on the island of Waiheke is situated near the top of the island delivers glorious views, a thorough wine flight, and a bite sized gourmet food pairing that will make you wonder “why doesn’t every winery do this?”
A shot glass of Malaysian inspired curry coconut soup pairs surprisingly well with their island grown 2016 Chardonnay. A full bite of mango topped pork tenderloin comes to life with their Bordeaux inspired Rosé. A remarkable mini meatball follows with one of the biggest fruit forward merlots that I’ve ever tasted. Of course, what pairing would be complete without a dessert consisting of a decadent double fudge brownie paired with their semi sweet ‘Le Côté de la Colline’. This estate Bordeaux blend is quite literally a stand alone dessert in itself.
The entire tasting is just $10NZD (about $7.50USD) and in my opinion, well worth the price. So when your travels take you to the inescapable beauty of New Zealand, do yourself a favor and take that hour long boat ride from Auckland to explore Waiheke Island, and reward yourself with a tasting at Peacock Sky Winery. It is a definite must do while in New Zealand!
Waiheke Island, New Zealand - http://www.peacocksky.co.nz/#
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