Chard Farm Winery marked its 25th Anniversary this weekend (February, Friday 21 and Saturday 22) with a wine tasting soiree and a community open day which raised over $5,000 for local primary schools.
Director and winemaker Rob Hay said he, wife Gerdi and family thoroughly enjoyed celebrating the landmark anniversary with family, friends and the local community.
“Twenty-five years on the farm is a fantastic milestone for us,” he said.
“It was lovely to so many colleagues, locals and of course our family, mark this occasion with us.”
The unique Friday evening event included a vertical tasting of Chard Farm’s single vineyard Pinot Noirs spanning 12 years and was a chance to taste other wines from earlier vintages including the very first 1989 vintage.
Saturday’s event invited locals and visitors to learn more about the winery’s history, including a barrel cellar tour and fantastic food and live music. Youngsters were thrilled with a bouncy castle and face painting while parents had the opportunity to buy wine at special prices.
“The Riesling tasting and particularly the Icewine tasting were a hit and the open day was very successful with families everywhere enjoying the sunshine, wine and entertainment,” said Mr.Hay
Proceeds from wine sales raised a fantastic $5,000 for local primary schools; Shotover, Remarkables, Arrowtown, St Joseph’s and Queenstown.
“The whole weekend was a wonderful opportunity for us to reflect on the past, and take some satisfaction in what we and the Central Otago wine region have achieved over the last 25 years. It was also a great time to reminisce, bathe in our feelings, and ponder the future,” said Rob.
“Here’s to the next 25 years!”