Eat.Taste.Central returns with A World of Flavour
The annual spring Eat.Taste.Central. (E.T.C.) celebration for the diverse wine, food and beverage options in Central Otago takes place for the sixth year between 23 September and 24 October.
Chefs and venues have been busy designing and creating their special dishes that feature locally and regionally sourced flavours and ingredients for inclusion on the regional menu.
“Entries have come from all corners of the district,” E.T.C campaign manager Anthony Longman said.
“This gives plenty of options to inspire people to get out and explore over the month, which has always been one of our key goals for running the campaign.”
The full regional menu launches online on 1 September for people to plan where they will go and to pick what dish will inspire their tastebuds. There are three categories of entries: Burger and sandwich; Pie; and Main meal – each matched with a local wine or beverage.
The judging panel will select its top picks and award an overall winner at the end of October.
A number of special food, wine and cultural-focussed events also take place during E.T.C. including a focus Weekend of Wine on 8 – 9 October plus many other events throughout the month. For example:
- Saturday 8 October - a Long-Lunch hosted by MiNDFOOD and Master Sommelier Cam Douglas at Carrick Winery & Restaurant, with food prepared by Gwen Harvie E.T.C Chef of the Year 2021.
- Sunday 9 October – a sub-regional tasting event featuring 23 vineyards from across the Central Otago sub-regions at Mt Difficulty’s barrel hall.
- 3-9 October - Bannockburn Arts School and Exhibition including Wine Masterclass with Winemakers of Bannockburn.
- 5-12 October - special Eden Hore pop up photography exhibition spread across five cellar doors on Felton Road.
- 23 October – Alexandra Basin New Release Tasting where many of the local vineyards introduce their newest release wines together with live music and food at Clyde’s Historic Railway Station Reserve.
Tickets to many events are limited so it will pay to book early.
“It's exciting to welcome back our favourite venues for another year together with some new ones, and to see the wide range of food-styles and experiences on offer. Literally there is something for everyone. From the best of high-end restaurants and wineries to classic country hotels and burger bars – each one celebrating with us our world of flavour,” Anthony said.
Alongside E.T.C.,Tourism Central Otago will also launch a new initiative A World of Flavour, which has been established in partnership with the wider food and beverage industry.
“It is designed to help us tell our own unique food, wine and beverage story,” Anthony said.
“Through the campaign we will celebrate the Central Otago landscapes and highlight the linkages between our growers, artisan producers, tour operators, hospitality venues, educators, and visitors.”
For more information visit: www.eattastecentral.co.nz
Contact: Anthony Longman
