January 2012

Happy New Year.  I hope it is a good one for you.  Here we have been busy, with the cafe in full swing over the holiday period. And there is plenty coming up, including a quick fire sales trip to the UK for David and me next week. (The UK in January? We must be mad!)

The region is shocked and reeling from the terrible ballooning tragedy here in Carterton last weekend.  David and I have done a balloon flight with Lance.  An awesome experience with an awesome man, who has done a huge amount for ballooning in the Wairarapa.  He will be missed hugely.  Our thoughts are with everyone who has lost a loved one in the accident.

• This Sunday 15th January, Barry Saunders
  Our favourite Warratah is back.  It's a privilege to listen to Barry right here at Gladstone Vineyard.  Do join us.  Barry is playing from 1 to 3pm.
   
• Then coming up on Sunday 19th February we are excited to welcome back Steve Carlin.
   
• We may be a motley group of Scots, Kiwis, Poms and South Africans, but it doesn't stop us kicking up our heels and celebrating St Paddy's Day.  Come and listen to the ever popular Pat McKenna on Sunday 18th March, with his band the "Paddy Wagon".
   
• Then (for some vintage relief) on Sunday 15th April, we welcome back Stefan Brown and the Kingsford Brown Trio.

Bookings are essential for any of these days.  Ring us on 06 379 8563,  or email us.

Twelfth Night, one of Shakespeare's most romantic and hilarious comedies, promises to be a sassy, mischievous affair of colourful costumes and lively music. This riotous comedy of hidden identity and mismatched love affairs will be set against a 1920's seaside backdrop. The audience is encouraged to really get into the 1920s swing of things - so slap on your flapper costume, and we'll see you here!

Twelfth Night plays Thursday 9th, Friday 10th and Saturday 11th February at 5.30pm here at the vineyard.  You can purchase your tickets from our Cellar Door, Hedleys Bookshop, Carterton Event Centre, or  through our online store.

This is our annual showcase of sensational wines and food from throughout the Wairarapa region. It is a unique event, set in a beautiful, sheltered riverside setting locally known as ‘The Cliffs’ on the banks of the Ruamahanga River at the end of Dakins Road in rural Wairarapa.  A family friendly affair, it is a great day for young and old.  You'll have the opportunity to sample wines from not only the larger, better known wineries but also from some of the smaller boutique wineries in the region such as Lynfer Estate, Joseph Ryan and Paper Road.

Tickets are on sale now and selling fast (there will be no gate sales).  For more information and to buy tickets check out the Harvest Festival website.

The café is in full swing and the weekends are busy.  Pete's summer menu is going down a treat.  The Rosé is perfect for summer lunch, and the triple silver medal winning Pinot Gris is our wine of the month - both at cellar door and on the website .  See the subscriber special offer and buy some now!

Enjoy your summer.  We hope to see you soon.
Yours aye