FAWC: Special vintage festival highlight

Terroir restaurant manager John Logan says Friday's Vintage of a Generation - 2013 Prestige Collection F.A.W.C! event will be something special. Photo / Supplied

Hawke's Bay people will be among the first to taste Craggy Range Winery's "vintage of a generation".

A blazing fire, gourmet degustation menu and fine wines combine at the launch of their 2013 Prestige Collection - comprising Sophia, Le Sol and Aroha - a stunning trio released globally on Monday.

Each drop has been expertly matched to a four course degustation menu, created by head chef Leyton Ashley using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

The result is to be revealed as part of Hawke's Bay's Food and Wine Classic [F.A.W.C!] from 7pm on Friday and there are still tickets available.

It's the perfect winter warmer and gives locals an opportunity to be part of something special says Terroir restaurant manager John Logan.

"It's a chance to see these wines before they are released and the whole menu will run for the rest of June," he says.

"We are going to have Mary-Jeanne [Hutchinson] here, the winemaker and ambience will be amazing with two fires going.

"It's going to be very family orientated."

The 'vintage of a generation', refers to a season experienced once every 25 years - and began with an exceptional growing period.

"The vibrancy of the fruit makes these wines so special," he added. Mr Ashley has drawn on inspiration from throughout the region including the restaurant's own vegetable garden which offers plentiful bounty all year round.

"It's showcasing fabulous food from Hawke's Bay. Leyton is very spoilt to have that resource on site especially with the winter menu."

F.A.W.C!'s winter series runs throughout this month and comprises 49 events - 26 of which have already sold out.

There are also 9 events with fewr than 10 tickets remaining with prices to suit all budgets including 24 cheap and cheerful F.A.W.C! by 5 deals.