Saint Clair Family Estate recently attended ‘An Evening of Sparkling Wine’ at the iconic Logan Brown restaurant in Wellington. Hosted by Méthode Marlborough, the sold-out event celebrated Marlborough’s méthode traditional wines and paired each with divine courses from the restaurant.
As a new member of this grower-led initiative, this was Saint Clair’s first event with Méthode Marlborough. The group aims to educate consumers and trade on why and how Marlborough’s sparkling wines differ from other styles. Through collaboration, communication and education, Méthode Marlborough builds recognition and respect for the heritage and quality of Marlborough méthode traditional wines.
Throughout the evening we were treated to 5 different courses matched with two sparkling wines. Each of the wines are made in the traditional method which means the second fermentation is in the bottle, followed by the intricate riddling and disgorging process. This produces the finest and most persistent bead. Additionally, all these wines are aged for a minimum of 18 months before disgorging takes place.
The 2014 Saint Clair Dawn was matched with the first course of gin cured salmon, fennel sorbet, watercress and salmon caviar and olive. While being served, a representative from each winery waxed lyrical and dined with guests at their tables.
Saint Clair’s very own Sarina Ibbotson, eldest daughter of Judy and Neal, took to the podium to speak about Dawn Ibbotson, the matriarch of the Saint Clair family and the inspiration behind the sparkling wine. Having recently accomplished 104 years, Dawn embodies positivity, uncompromising values and a desire to be her best, something that Saint Clair aim to imbue in their wines.
For Saint Clair, it’s always a pleasure to be back in the wonderful city of Wellington and even more so when we get the privilege of taking part in innovative events such as this. A huge thank you to Méthode Marlborough and Logan Brown for hosting us. We look forward to many more opportunities in the future to showcase our sparkling wine.
