Wine. What a wonderful thing. So what better thing you might say, than to spend a sunny afternoon wine tasting in the glorious surroundings of Stoneleigh No. 50?
Just when we were looking for another excuse to crack open the Sauv Blanc, Sydney Social 101 received an invitation for a sneak preview of the Summer pop-up over at Millers Point, and to sample some of the Stoneleigh wine portfolio. Oh go on then.
Arms twisted, we Uber-ed ourselves over to explore the house in its full glory; where nature has transformed the abandoned mansion into an adult wonderland. Each room in the house has been intricately styled with enveloping flora and fauna to represent the different elements of the Stoneleigh winemaker’s story.
Each section is interactive and every corner uncovers a different surprise; from the wonders of the mushroom grove where there is talk of tannins and fungi, to the citrusy lemon bathroom. One feature unique to the Stoneleigh is the use of ‘Sunstones’, which you will find scattered in the garden. In the vineyards, each stone is used to absorb and retain the heat from the sun, then planted in the beds reflecting the heat on to the grapes to enhance ripening.
Do you remember the Flower Fairies? You expect to see them darting around No.50, weaving their way in and out of the living vines and foliage that is growing out of every nook and cranny. But don’t get me wrong; this house is for grown-ups and amongst the magic there are some delicious treats to be discovered and edible surprises. More importantly, there’s some serious wine to be a-drinking.
So, now you know where the party’s at, the next thing you need to decide is what to drink, right? Now, whether you’re a professional wine quaffer or just getting to grips with the basics, the Stoneleigh range has something for everyone. Hailing from Marlborough, New Zealand’s most acclaimed wine-making region, the vineyards have produced an absolutely stunning range of wines and include a signature Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.
Sauvignon Blanc is certainly having its moment right now, and if you are new to wine then a Marlborough variety should be your go-to. The Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc is a classic; zesty and crisp with ripe juicy tropical fruit flavours. A definite crowd pleaser; take this bottle round to the girls when you’re getting ready for a night out or to that summer BBQ and it’ll go down a treat.
If you think red wine is a wintery tipple then think again; the Stoneleigh Pinot Noir is deliciously fruity with cherry aromas and is soft on the tannins making it refreshing and light, and VERY easy drinking.
For something with a little more oomph, then a selection from the Wild Valley range will give you something to talk about. The Sauvignon Blanc has all the aromas and flavours you would expect from Stoneleigh, yet the fermentation adds another dimension and there is plenty more going on. The Wild Valley Pinot Noir has more body and the oakiness really comes through.
Fancy it?
With an exciting line-up of super exclusive parties and events throughout November, we are offering you the unique opportunity to get along and experience Stoneleigh No.50 for yourself. So try your luck and win yourself an invite or if wine is truly your thang, book online now for a private tour.
Here’s a lil’ taster of what you can expect from the I-D shindig last week:
What: STONELEIGH No.50
Where: 50 Argyle Place, Millers Point 2000
When: November 2015
Web: www.stoneleigh.co.nz
Follow: @Stoneleighno.50 :#STONELEIGH50
**Thanks to our partners at Stoneleigh**
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