The olive muse and Moore Wilson’s

September 21, 2010
Moore Wilson's

Moore Wilson's

I looked up at the enormous building and the huge green sign that said “Moore Wilson’s Fresh Market,” and I felt like Dorothy at the gates to the Emerald City.

In my arms I held a heavy cardboard box full of olive oil bottles that I’d carefully labeled the night before. At my side was our good neighbor Kiwi Bronwyn, carrying another box which contained more olive oil, a tablecloth, a bread knife, and some plates and bowls.

Rick stood right behind us, next to our little Nissan Pulsar. He’d just driven us over the Rimutaka Hill Road and into Wellington city for the day.

“Do you have everything?” he asked.

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Pinot speed dating in Martinborough

September 5, 2010

Escarpment 2008 Pinot Noir. Sautéed mushrooms & celeriac aioli on crouton.

Escarpment 2008 Pinot Noir. Sautéed mushrooms & celeriac aioli on crouton.

The room was dimly lit. There were candles glowing everywhere, red and white heart-shaped helium balloons across the ceiling, and an inviting fire burning in the nearby fireplace.

I stood talking to an energetic, grey-haired woman whose intricately beaded black necklace sparkled in the candlelight. She was telling me about her life as a vineyard owner.

“I do all the P words,” she said. “Plant, pick, prune and price!” Then she let loose with a delightfully mad, very infectious laughter. Her short hair flipped back as she doubled over.

I was speed dating, and having a fantastic time. Of course, this woman was old enough to be my mother. But never mind. She was not my date.

I was there to find my perfect Pinot match.

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