KEY POINTS:
Seresin Estate's Olio Nuovo (new oil) is a limited edition release of first press top quality oil. In Italy, olio nuovo is, like Bluff oysters or beaujolais, a seasonal delight to be celebrated. Michael Seresin, who saw the tradition in action in Tuscany, was inspired to capture the
same flavours from his Marlborough groves, which grow classic Tuscan trees. A limited release of 200 bottles were filled and labelled by hand early this month and are available for $45 from www.seresin.co.nz or selected delis and organics stores. Try the oil with dipping breads or bruschetta to enjoy the full taste and aroma or drizzle a little over winter vegetable soups or simple spaghetti dishes topped with parmesan. Made from organic fruit, the flavour is pungent, peppery and luminous green.
It's considered olio nuovo for about two months and after that time has a similar shelf life and taste to an extra virgin olive oil.
Hit out in style
Kauri Cliffs Lodge and Golf Course is holding a special weekend for food and wine lovers. The Northland luxury retreat is bringing over chef Philip Johnson from acclaimed ecco restaurant in Brisbane for the event which runs from August 10 to 12. A leading winemaker and educator, Peter Gago, of Penfolds, will co-host and guests will enjoy relaxed tastings, including the chance to sample Penfolds Grange Hermitage. A champagne reception, degustation dinner, cooking demonstration and optional golf are also on the menu for the weekend, which finishes with a Sunday brunch.
The cost is $3795.00 per couple (plus GST), including accommodation. For bookings contact Amy Tapper at the lodge, info@kauricliffs.com or ph (09) 407 0010, or visit www.kauricliffs.com
Let's lunch
The Hilton has launched a White Lightning Lunch menu for diners who want a two-course meal in good time and fine surroundings. Take in the harbour view and dine for $39, or pay $45 for a third course. Check out the menu of seasonal specials at www.whiterestaurant.co.nz/
Cocktails on ice
The Cocktail World Cup will be held again in Queenstown this September. The event, sponsored by 42 Below, sees 42 top bartenders mix it up for a week, with plenty of chances for public sampling. The Brits won last year, with a hot cocktail based on a medieval monk's recipe. New Zealand came second.
For more on this year's action see: www.cocktailworldcup.com.
Gisborne heads up
The Gisborne Food and Wine Festival isn't on for a few months, but tickets go on sale from July 1, giving plenty of time to plan a trip. The festival has been running for a decade and new management is limiting numbers to 4000 and laying on public transport as part of the ticket price to help get visitors around the seven venues, all within 20km of the city. Tickets to the festival on Sunday, October 21, cost $60 and are available through Ticketmaster or Tourism Eastland. Or visit www.gisbornewine.co.nz to find out about the wineries.