Not a cloud in the sky, the group of friends began their afternoon with a tasting of award-winning Archangel wines – what better way to taste wine than in the place where they were grown! A delicious Afternoon Tea followed – platters of dainty sandwiches and handmade cakes.

With the vines making an ideal backdrop, Zin and his friends were able to sit back, relax and enjoy good wine, good food and good friendship in the most perfect setting – making this special occasion one to remember.

John Updike

These days I approach life with a sense of creative purpose. I am both a vigneron (someone who cultivates a vineyard for winemaking) and an artist – I cannot separate the two. As my life becomes more entrenched in the world of wine I realise that to stand out and be noticed, creativity is not something you do intermittently – instead, creativity becomes a way of life.

Like most artists (and winemakers) I like to express myself through my work. For me, the vineyard offers simple wonder and gratitude – a ‘timelessness’ that tells our story – it is this story that I weave through my art and wine.

The commonalities of art and wine are apparent – both engage our senses, evoking emotional if not mystical experiences. So what happens when you pair art with wine – well, not only is it a memorable experience, it becomes a portal to the aesthetic. I was recently invited to pair my art and wine at a degustation ‘Long Lunch’ at the Nice Hotel and Table Restaurant in New Plymouth. I would like to thank Terry, his creative chefs and staff for an absolutely memorable day. To our guests and lovers of wine, art and all things good – thank you, for your enthusiasm, your conversation and your laughter. It made me realise that art and wine together, can offer a greater range of enjoyment and appreciation – it can leave us feeling truly connected, but most of all, it is fun!

Archangel Vineyard – Where our wine is born and where the art series ‘Moments’ was inspired. Enjoy!