29/02/2008

First vineyard experience

For the first time during the viticulture & wine making course we have been in the school vineyard. First of all we had to put nets on the vines to protect the grapes against the birds, who start eating the grapes when they get their color. Putting on nets is a very labour intensive job, which for us was a great change after the lessons in the class room. After this we had to collect different type of leaves to start learning about the shapes etc. and how the recognise the grape variety by the leaves.

During one of the classes in wine production we started with sensory tests. We got several glasses filled with water to which all kind of flavour was added that we had to recognise. We also had to taste wine with additions to it. I have noticed that it is very difficult to recognise certain tastes and to describe them. And to try to taste differences in sugar levels etc. And after an hour of tasting the taste buds actually do get tired!! (or drunk?) If you do not believe it, please give it a try yourself.

We all really enjoy these classes, but after all these hands on classes are the reason we all came to Blenheim; not for the computer or chemistry classes, which unfortunately need to be taken as well.

Then it was time to head home, to Wellington. So, I drove to Picton and took the plane to Wellington. The flight was quite bumpy and a few of the other 10 passengers were very shaky when we landed after 20 minutes. My first goal in Wellington was Courtenay Place, where I met Marco over a beer and later we were joined by some friends for some other beers and to watch the Rugby match on a big screen. So, on this Friday, after 3 bars, I have had my taste of Wellington again! It was great to catch up with friends.


















2 comments:

WS said...

Very happy to see you are settling in to the slower pace of life in Blenheim. It sounds like you are finding it to your liking. I'm sure it's a strange adjustment following on Wellington, but I suspect a positive one once you get the hang of it. The hotel work sounds challenging, though! I guess that will be your main source of stress these days...well, that and the school tests. But you will do great. I love the new header artwork, too - very fitting considering your new ambitions. Hopefully S will be able to see you when she comes through the area on the way to Nelson in the coming weeks. We miss your company here, but are very happy to see you pursuing this goal. Take care & see you soon! ~William

Anonymous said...

Looking good in the vineyard.
Finally some hands-on classes!
Pretty small plane you had to catch back to Wellington and I hope you didnt have too much of a headache after all the alcohol, be it from tasting or the bars in Welly. (?)