Newsletter August ’26

Here’s a summary of the August 2026 newsletter from The Cellar Club Inc.

Ordering Process: Orders for Riverby wines will be taken during the event, with payment to The Cellar Club the next day for delivery
Health Reminder: Members are encouraged not to attend if feeling unwell.

Johnsonville Dinner
- 34 attendees enjoyed a buffet-style meal with roast beef, Yorkshire pudding, and dessert
- The seating arrangement encouraged mingling and conversation
- Thanks extended to Chrissy and the Johnsonville Club team.

The mid-winter meal will remain local and hearty, while the Christmas meal will be more fine dining
Appreciation for members who help with setup and cleanup.

Annual subscription ($25) is now due. Payment can be made via bank transfer or at the August tasting.

NZ Winter 2026
- Mixed conditions, but excellent fruit quality in most regions
- Central Otago faced frosts and delays, but fruit is promising
- Industry challenges include lost contracts and unharvested blocks, especially in Gisborne and North Canterbury
- Marlborough faces uncertainty with uncontracted blocks
- Optimism remains for increased production due to demand.
California Crisis
- Many vineyards are burning vines due to oversupply and declining demand
- 30% of Sonoma County grapes went unsold; widespread vineyard abandonment.

French Wine & Cheese Night
- Date: Monday, 10 August
- Location: 1 Norman Lane, Johnsonville
- Price: $30 per person
- Features premium French wine tastings and cheese selection.