was fantastic.

It is amazing how you can sit through school, and even university, wondering the relevance of the material being presented to you. Then, once you have 'found your way/calling' you can sit through entire days of well presented, entertaining technical information without feeling the need to sleep or leave.

The entire day was well organised and obviously a lot of thought and planning had taken place - from the venue and delicious food to the wine and key note speakers. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the day, however I did have a few favourites :

1. Asia Market Perspective - presented by Simon Tan from Hong Kong.
Quite possibly one of the most engaging and entertaining speakers I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. Extremely informative and provided a lot of practical information for breaking into and making money in the Asian market - especially relating to China and Hong Kong.

2. Case Study : Chateau Cheval Blanc - presented by Professor Kees van Leewen. A tasting and informative talk on the different soil types in St Emillion, and how they influence the structure, intensity and flavour of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It is amazing to hear the experience and research that goes in to creating the worlds most recognised wines. I loved the tasting - a selection of 2006 wines from the differing soil types and slopes of St Emillion. There is a distinct difference in the wines that were produced on the alluvial plains compared to the limestone hill, and it was informative to have these wines side by side.

3. Hawkes Bay Showcase Tasting - presented by Peter Cowley. Two flights clearly depicting the amazing wines created in New Zealand, and highlighting the differences through both vineyard and producer.

The day was finished by a dinner and further 'tasting' at Sileni Estate Winery - a night of good food, great wine and company.

It was great to see so many world renowned wine industry professionals - wine writers, buyers, sommeliers, makers - in one place for a common cause, striving to improve the wines made from Cabernet and Merlot in New Zealand.