MiNDFOOD Master Sommelier, Cameron Douglas hosted his masterclass via video sharing his knowledge on the local wines from Akarua, Chard Farm and Cloudy Bay. Douglas’ easy manner encouraged guest to sniff and swirl their way through the wine pairings, comparing different tastes and textures with the delicious menu created by Morsel Catering.
“It’s been wonderful to join with the MiNDFOOD team here at the Canyon for this amazing long lunch experience. It has truly celebrated our food and wine in a distinctive and fabulous Central Otago setting.” said Tourism Central Otago campaign lead Antz Longman
“It’s a fitting location and event in which to announce our winners and we know that when we come back together for E.T.C. in 2022, the people we are celebrating today will have continued to deliver exceptional experiences, as they have this year, despite the challenges of changing alert levels and business practices.
“The success of E.T.C. really comes down to the commitment and enthusiasm of those who have entered into the spirit of what we are trying to achieve – which is encouraging celebration of local people, produce, wines and beverages – wherever you are in Central Otago.”
“Partners like MiNDFOOD, Air New Zealand, Central Otago Winegrowers, The Central App, venues and visitors are key to us being able to build Eat.Taste.Central year on year and keep its place on the annual events calendar. Without this support – be it in creating a menu item (or two), entering the judges awards, creating and sharing an experience or event or supporting the campaign activity – we simply could not deliver a programme of this depth.”
The E.T.C. People’s Choice category winners were:
Café: Tarras Country Café, Tarras
Cellar Door: Te Kano Estate, Bannockburn
Country Hotel or Pub: Waipiata Country Hotel, Waipiata
On the Move: Burger Afloat, Cromwell
Restaurant: Centennial Court, Alexandra
The ETC Judges award winners by category were:
Young Talent: Sam Farr, Alexandra District Club
Front of House: Mark Button, Waipiata Country Hotel
Chef or Cook: Gwen Harvie, Carrick Winery & Restaurant
Innovation and Sustainability: Richard and Jolanda Foale, Burger Afloat
It was hoped that Eat.Taste.Central would return in 2022 without the last-minute curve balls of the past two years, and that the event could once again welcome visitors from all across New Zealand and further afield.
