I am almost home from a hectic 2 week tour of the UK, with a small group of antipodian winemakers (2 kiwis, 4 aussies) and what a great 2 weeks it has been. Travelling from Edinburgh to Manchester to London to Bristol then Glasgow, Whitby, Dartmouth and back to London showing off the wines of Nautilus Estate. This was the 1st time we have had our complete range on tour, including our precious Nautilus Cuvee Marlborugh Brut NV and it was certianly great to see the strong interest in the varieties other than the very well known Sauvignon Blanc. This trip it seemed to be the Pinot Gris that generated the most interest (with Cuvee a close second) and it seems the UK trade are getting keen on this variety. Maybe it is because it is such a good food wine. Speaking of food of course a trip like this means some great food & wine experiences. Highlights ranged from a great simple lunch at The Hanoi Bike shop – a new Vietnamese canteen in Glasgow (the most vegetables I had all tour) to the more refined Le Boudin Blanc & the Michelin starred Glasshouse in London. Most nights involved winemakers dinners including The Rutland Bar, Sake No Hana, Estbek House, Brown’s hotel & Suze in Mayfair. Needless to say a more restrained diet and some exercise is required now on my return……
But back to reality now and I am looking forward to returning to the winery where the 2012 sparklign bases, Pinot Gris and Gruner Veltliner await bottling. Thanks to all those who hosted us and kept us busy and entertained.
