Cellar door takeover will give ‘good-hearted’ competition

In what is thought to be an industry-first, Neudorf winery is opening its cellar door to an out-of-town vineyard.

The Cellar Door Takeover Series launches this month, with visiting winemaker Paul Pujol from Prophet’s Rock in Central Otago “hijacking” the Upper Moutere cellar door on 16 December.

Neudorf marketing director, Rosie Finn, says they will welcome winemakers from across the country to hijack the picturesque cellar door for an afternoon.

“After 40 odd years in New Zealand wine, we have forged great friendships with like-minded winemakers from Northland to Central Otago.

“The NZ wine industry is very convivial, full of laughs and we love tasting their wines as much as their Nelson fan base, so we thought why not give them a place to do so,” says Rosie.

In what she thinks might be an industry first in giving a cellar door to another winery, Neudorf welcomes Paul this Saturday.

“Naturally, as most great ideas are formed, this idea sprung up over a glass of wine with Jude, my mother and Neudorf founder. We wanted to do something different at the cellar door and there are so many other winemakers we love having a good chat with, it seemed so obvious. Paul is such a talented winemaker and a good friend, so he jumped on board at the offer to trial the idea.”

Paul says he is extremely excited to be heading north with a load of Prophet’s Rock wines for the inaugural Neudorf Cellar Door Takeover.

“For me, it’s an amazing opportunity to catch up with the wonderful team and wines of Neudorf while pouring a taste of our Central Otago vineyards for the lovely people of Nelson,” Paul says.

Both Prophet’s Rock and Neudorf Vineyards have gained international attention for their Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs so it was a natural match in the cellar door – both appealing to similar palates. As friendly as the invitation is - no doubt there will be some good-hearted competition between Rosie & Paul over the wines on display.

“We have a few winemakers in our sights for future takeovers at Neudorf, particularly if they are already in town or feel like a getaway to Nelson. I know the Donaldson’s from Pegasus Bay are keen, which is excellent, we’re working out a date at the moment,” says Rosie, as she hopes to create a calendar of great visits over the next few years.

“I am excited to keep rolling this out.”

Paul Pujol will be at Neudorf Vineyards on 16 of December from noon – 4pm. Future dates and events will all be available at www.neudorf.co.nz