"The ferments are our babies - during vintage we monitor them daily - taste them, check temperatures, sugar levels, and nutrients and generally make sure they are quite happy. As a result the winery is working 24 hours per day because ferments, like little children, tend to misbehave when you're not watching."
- Wietske van der Pol

Half day workshop with Wietske van der Pol
Assistant Winemaker-Waimea Estates
 

This workshop introduces you to wine appreciation and gives you an understanding of the winemaking process. 

The workshop starts with a walking tour of the winery which describes the complete winemaking process, followed by vineyard tour and an explanation of viticultural techniques employed. There will be plenty of opportunity to discuss the development of New Zealand's wine trade and for questions on all aspects of winemaking. Morning tea follows.

The second part of the workshop will use your newfound knowledge with a tasting session where the winemaker will take you through a range of different wines describing them in detail. You will learn about the language of wine and improve your ability to recognise different grape varieties and the impact of different wine making practices, and we will finish the session with game of wine options.

The workshop finishes with lunch at the Waimea Estates Café, prepared by chef Chris von Schreibern and his team. See Waimea Estates for a sample menu.

About the tutor
Wietske van der Pol is a Lincoln University Oenology and Viticulture graduate who has worked for Waimea for the past five vintages. She previously worked in Australia's Hunter Valley. To further her experience and winemaking knowledge, Wietske has worked the vintage in Long Island and Burgundy.

Days available: Monday to Friday
Start and finish times: 9.00 am to 1 pm, followed by lunch at the participant's leisure.
Price per participant: NZ$110.00. Minimum group size: 6 participants.
Price Includes: Tuition, wine tasting, morning coffee/tea and a delicious two course lunch with a glass of wine and coffee/tea in the Waimea Estates Café.
Workshop location: Workshops take place at Waimea Estates, Appleby Highway, Hope, Nelson.
Notes: Minimum age 18.