A Long Weekend in Napier

It's been a while since we were down in the Hawkes Bay. Our last trip was just after highway reopened after the devastation caused by the floods in February. Work is ongoing on the road in. There are lots of roadworks and one way sections but progress is being made. 

Having said that, in the Esk Valley reminders are everywhere still. Piles of dried mud and empty, destroyed homes and businesses still stands as testament to the viscious  power of nature. 

Brookfields Winery has only just reopened and I was more than happy to support them with the purchase of some of my favourite wines at excellent prices. 

Bud burst has occurred too despite that vines being under water in February .

A better sort of testament to mother natures power. 

The Brookfields tasting experience in the barrel room is great. Very casual yet full of information and such a big variety to try and the restaurant offerings were very generous and tasty and amongst my purchases included a newly bottled 2023 Pinot Gris. Amazing that despite the devastation they were still able to produce something from the vintage. It was good too.. I'm not generally a Pinot Gris fan so it has to be a good one for me to buy some. 

Our next vineyard stop was at Askerne to pick up some of their Spritzy Fleurty Rosé in the hope that Rosé drinking weather finally arrives. 

The rest of the weekend was primarily spent with family but we did have a lovely dinner at the Central Fire station restaurant which had a slow cooked theme for Sunday . We shared a delicious lamb shoulder with some good Hawkes Bay Syrah.

i loved the little carrafe the wine was served in. 

Till next time Napier!! We will be back for the Art Deco Festival in February