On the back of an All Black drubbing, the New Zealanders are back. This time it’s their wine makers and they’re coming to Dublin in a month which is normally quiet on the social front.

I’ve said it before, but wine fairs are a great way to get a big picture of what a country is all about when it comes to wine. While I hear mutterings about the demise of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, this event is a great opportunity to confirm or refute that assertion. Away from being glib, it’s really a great opportunity to get a perspective on what else they’re doing in New Zealand.

Pinot Noir is an obvious one, but there are some great red blends coming out of Hawke’s Bay and other whites like Riesling, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay from up and down the country. Then there’s Syrahm which is soooo hot right now.

Where and when

Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Golden Lane, Dublin 8. The trade tasting on January 17th 2011 will run from 12.00 to 6.00 p.m. and a consumer tasting from at 6.30 – 8.30 p.m.

Ones to watch

Some of the producers (which I’m familiar with) worth looking out for are:

  • Ata Rangi
  • Craggy Range
  • Delta Wines
  • Wild Earth

Buying tickets

Consumer tickets are now on sale at €15.00. (Buy 10 and get an 11th ticket free).

To purchase consumer tickets online visit www.newzealandwineevents.co.uk

To pay by cheque or postal order contact Jean Smullen by email: for or phone (01) 274 5955 or (086) 816 8468