Leading NZ Wine Journalist Comes in Search of the Strange Bird

Our little Strange Birdie has stirred the interest of journos since its inception five years ago. Last week was no exception, with leading New Zealand wine journalist, John Saker venturing to the Granite Belt eager to sample our Strange Bird alternative wines.

John has all the credentials - not only the head wine writer for NZ's Sunday Star Times, he is also a columnist for the acclaimed Cuisine Magazine. And in his spare time John is a wine judge and author, with his book Celebration of and Guide to New Zealand's Pinot Noir a required read for the wine aficionado.

Invited to Noosa Food and Wine Festival by Tourism Australia (thank you!), John insisted part of his stay included a visit to nearby Granite Belt Wine Country.

Jim Barnes (our wine chair) met up with John at Shiraz Restaurant to discuss the formation of Strange Bird, and the growing popularity of alternative varieties in the region. (pictured left)

John's stay also included a visit to Boireann, Summit Estate, Tobin Wines, Symphony Hill, Golden Grove and Ballandean Estate, plus overnight at the Vineyard Cafe and Cottages where he enjoyed more Strange Birds.

Stay tuned for his article, as we look forward to more visitors from the land of the long white cloud.

Ed note: a special thanks also to Tourism Queensland and the RTO