Being entertained by the smooth vocals of Caitlin Smith, it was one of those occasions when we reflected on how much we truly did love our jobs!
You may be wondering what the reason was for such an indulgent afternoon?
The occasion was Matua Valley wines announcing the opening of their new Cellar Door, in the iconic Hunting Lodge at its winery in Waimauku, Auckland. Since their first wine, produced in 1974, Matua Valley has firmly established itself as a leader within the New Zealand wine industry.
From humble inceptions in a tin shed through to producing the first Sauvignon Blanc in New Zealand, Matua Valley has stood true to its vision of becoming the pioneering spirit of New Zealand wines.
Above:The delightful food, wine and surroundings made for a hard day at the office.
Bottom right: The Hunting Lodge Cellar Door
It is in keeping with this vision that the new Cellar Door plans were developed.
Emma Leon, Matua Valley Cellar Door Manager explains: “As our winery has grown we wanted to provide a cellar door which allowed us to showcase our impressive range of wines and rich history.
The iconic Hunting Lodge was the ideal venue; as it has been a key feature of the winery since its inception as well as boasting picture perfect views of our surrounding vineyards.
Through our renovations we have merged the best of our past with the best of our future, while standing by our original values.”
The new Cellar Door was designed by Aspect Interiors and features wood panelling and a large Caesarstone tasting bench. Visitors can expect modern day facilities subtly merged with hints of yesteryear.
They will be provided with the opportunity to try a variety of Matua Valley wines, in a beautiful vineyard setting – the perfect surroundings to sample their fine wines.
Renowned for its award winning Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noirs, Matua Valley also produce an impressive range of wines to suit the taste of every consumer.
The Cellar Door is open 11 November 2011 from 10am – 5pm and located just 20 minutes from downtown Auckland.