We went on the annual Hunters & Collectors wine trip to the Coonawarra.~
First stop, Bowen Estate, where Mr Doug Bowen gave us an insight into the making of his Chardonnay, the life of an french oak barrel (it is used for 3 vintages, being shaved out in between each use) and showed us how they separate the grapes from the stalks. They were very generous with their tastings and time.~
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I bought some yummy things - Kalamata olives, home made tomato relish and an Apple & Mint jelly I am keen to try with pork and lamb, and some Cherry pickles which are delicious with cheese and biscuits (like quince paste). Yum!~
At the end of each row of vines they grow roses, supposedly any pests will be evident on the roses and then they can be dealt with on the vines. So many beautiful roses...~
Trekking between DiGiorgio Wines and Zema Estate Wines.~
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Lunch at the Prince of Wales Hotel~
Lamb shanks for me...~
Crumbed flathead fillets for him...~
The happy group!~
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Back to the PoW for a few more drinks before we got back on the bus. Tequila slammer, anyone?~
The Tequila girls - Sheryl, Kerryn and Ally~
Happy times on the way home. Aren't we lucky to have this region right at our back door?~
Fortunately, I was very well behaved and did not over do it. Is that a sign of age and maturity? Kirby picked us up when we got back home and then we had Tacos for dinner. A great day spent with lots of happy people.
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Cheers - Joolz
Wow! That looks like so much fun!!!! What a wonderful day! Now that's MY kind of tour! :)))) Thanks for sharing all the images.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like a lovely time was had by all. We have some wonderful places at our doorstep, and Coonawarra is definitely one of them. I grew up near Mclaren Vale, with a father who was a real wine connoisseur. We spent many an hour having private tours of the mostly family owned wineries in the region. (I don't think I fully appreciated at the age of 7, not until I reached my teens). I have many fond memories, and an education that has paid off ever since.
ReplyDeleteCheers,
Lisa x
It is good to live close to wine growing areas, we are only about 15mins away for all the Hunter Valley ones and good for a day out (bit too good sometimes).
ReplyDeleteGlad you didn't overdo it :0)
It's nice to have a day out like that, and even better when everything is nice and close. The weather was just right as well, not too hot.
ReplyDeleteLooks like you all had a great day! Nothing like playing in your own backyard!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun day! Love all the roses!
ReplyDeleteThat looks like great fun. Lovely roses.Your purchases sound yummy.
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