Fresh off an amazing trip to the North Canterbury region, just north of Christchurch on the South Island of her homeland, New Zealand, Simone Madden-Grey let's us in on a little known region that we all need to try (and visit): North Canterbury.

Here are some quick notes from the show:

• The Alps are to the west, the Pacific Ocean to the east.
• Cool, dry climate with high sunshine and a long growing season means pure, flavorful wines -- especially aromatic whites like Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer since the climate is similar to Alsace. Pinot Noir is also stunning from here
• 3% of NZ production
• Wines are grown on the valley floor and vineyards (top ones) are being planted on the hillsides and foothills
• The stunning subregions of Waipara and Waitaki Valleys are the hot spots for quality wine in the region.
  • Waipara Valley is 40 minutes north of Christchurch
  • About 30 wineries in the valley
• We discuss the beautiful produce of the ares and how the food and wine are so fully integrated into the culture here, as it is no where else
• For a list of all the wineries, with links go here: Wineries and Vineyards of North Canterbury and Waipara
• And the list of wines Simone mentions --

Bell Hill Vineyard – http://www.bellhill.co.nz/

Bellbird Spring – http://www.bellbirdspring.co.nz/

Black Estate – http://blackestate.co.nz/

Greystone Wines – http://www.greystonewines.co.nz/

Pegasus Bay – http://www.pegasusbay.com/

Pyramid Valley – http://pyramidvalley.co.nz/

Tongue in Groove – http://tongueingroove.co.nz/

As a wrap up for Women's History Month, we talk about our experiences as women in wine.

Thanks to Simone and to our sponsor this week:

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