Mud House Wines, who own the Mud House and Waipara Hills brands, has put forward an interesting initiative to promote the oft-misunderstood Riesling. They chose 12 respected winemakers from around the country, gave them each four tonnes of Riesling fruit picked from the same vineyard in April this year, and asked them to hand-craft a wine using methods of their choice. The wines will be … Continue reading Reason to Go Riesling
Oh, bountiful Waiheke Island. Alas, a day and a bit there is not enough to do much in the way of exploratory eating – especially with a toddler in tow. Found a new cafe/restaurant that had just opened a week ago, located across the vast carpark from le supermarchet: Food Embassy. Interior a kind of industrial-meets-homely look with polished concrete here and there, as well … Continue reading Weekend on Waiheke
On Saturdays and Sundays at La Cigale in Parnell, the air is thick with the smell of Toulouse sausages grilling, freshly-baked croissants, bunches of fresh herbs and pongy French cheeses. Today’s spoils for us included: a baker’s dozen bambino rolls (sourdough, soft but chewy and oh-so-nice toasted, with a thick blanket of butter); pomegranates; Thai basil; buffalo mozarella; two kinds of smoked Italian cheeses; a … Continue reading La Cigale weekend market
It’s that time of year again when I start to crave light, zingy and largely raw foods. Thai and Vietnamese salads fit the bill perfectly. I’ve blogged previously on this topic, having posted a recipe for a spicy pork salad. This beef salad I made last night is different in a few respects – namely, it’s less a traditional Isaan-style dish and more of my … Continue reading Thai Beef Salad
