Martinborough Wine & Food Society: Chardonnay night

Six wines were tasted from different parts of the world: South of France, California, South Australia and New Zealand.

We were lucky to have with us past president Shelley and former cellar master Laurence Goldsmith who have shifted south but were passing through.They showed wonderful hospitality and kindness to members over the years but especially during lockdown, for which we again thank them.

Wine presentation was given by the knowledgeable John Penney accompanied by an excellent hand-out, which aptly described the parameters of Chardonnay. 

It will grow in most districts and display the characteristics of that region, from full-bodied to mineral and more elegant styles. Other considerations include: how much oak is used, or not; the use of malolactic fermentation to soften the wine, whether made in stainless or a barrel ferment and how long it is left on lees. 

Chardonnay is capable of a range of expressions depending on what the winemaker chooses to do with it.

The first pair of wines were from the Languedoc, not made under strict appellation control but the Pays D’Oc.

First was Domaine La Baume Les Vignes de Madame Chardonnay 2020.The wine is grown in silty clay limestone, fermented in stainless steel. It says made in the presence of wood!!!! So presumably oak chips. I personally found this wine very drinkable and good value.  … Continue Reading

Golf clubhouse fundraising builds up

An amazing fundraising day for the new clubhouse was held on April 19 when 34 teams took to the course in an ambrose tournament. The winners on the day with net 54.87 were Taylor Dewis, Robbie Robinson, Tom de Groen and Liam Richardson. 

The longest drive for men went to Michael Bing and the ladies to Lisa Marie Island. Malcolm Bridge had a good day on the par 3’s winning two “closest to the pins,” the other was won by Ju Allen who picked up the $500 star prize of the day.

An enormous thank you goes to all the sponsors and donators of prizes and auction items including Kate Paterson (Paterson & Co), Bevan Sweeney (EnTain), Poppies, Cool Change, Runholder, Ata Rangi, Moy Hall, Colombo, Wharekauhau, Trust House and Royal Wellington Golf Club. The biggest thank you goes to the members who put in their time to ensure the day was a resounding success.

Fundraising and grant applications continue, with a grant from the Pain Farm Fund of $10,000 recently received.

The new clubhouse roof is going on and the weather gods have looked very favourably on Holmes Construction as all is on track to have the building covered before the worst of winter hits.  … Continue Reading

Women’s football team in Green, Black and … Pink strip

Goalmouth Girls: Martinborough Football’s wahine toa.

Martinborough Football Club has unveiled a vibrant new palette of green, black and pink with the introduction of a women’s team, marking a significant milestone for the club.

The rise of interest in women’s football, fueled by events like the FIFA Women’s World Cup, highlighted the demand for local opportunities. Responding to this need, Martinborough FC proudly welcomes the addition of a women’s team – a platform for local women to shine in their hometown.

What began as a modest messenger chat group, spearheaded by Michelle Ford and comprising of five-six local women, the idea quickly gained traction. 

From its humble beginnings, the group burgeoned, attracting what felt like half of Martinborough with around 40 enthusiastic participants.

Numbers slowly reduced as the initiative gained momentum and the group delved into securing sponsorships, engaging with the junior club, organizing fundraising events, and conducting summer skills training sessions. In late January, pre-season training commenced, solidifying the commitment of 16 dedicated women, who display a blend of experience and skill.

Under the guidance of the “very courageous” Tim Roach, who graciously assumed the coaching role, the group has evolved into a cohesive team. Recently outfitted in their sleek new uniforms, courtesy  of amazing local business sponsorship and the incredible work of Mike and Lindie from Dusty and Lulu, the team showcased their talent in a women’s 7-aside tournament hosted by the combined efforts of Capital Football and Greytown FC.  … Continue Reading

Country Dog City Dog