Cellar Club – November 2026 Newsletter Highlights

A taste of Hawke’s Bay this month, a lovely Italian evening to look back on, and some dates for your diary!**

November tasting: Beach House Wines

Wednesday 11 November, 8pm
Members $16 | Guests $20

We’re welcoming Chris Harrison from Beach House Wines, a family winery established in Hawke’s Bay in 1996. Chris will share the story behind the winery and guide us through seven wines, starting with a 2025 Arneis. We’ll also sample Chenin Blanc, two Chardonnays, Merlot Franc, Cabernet Malbec and Syrah.

Looking back: Our Italian evening JK14 Wines

October’s tasting with Luca from JK14 Wines was a real treat. Luca shared stories of his family’s Italian connections while introducing us to Prosecco, Pinot Grigio, Fiano and three distinctive Italian reds.

The evening offered more than wine, with generous tastings of Italian olive oil, balsamic vinegar, gin and liqueurs. The dry-style limoncello was a particular surprise!

Thanks to Luca for a fascinating evening and for making it so easy for members to take their favourites home.

Interested in exploring more? Visit **jk14wines.com**, where you’ll also find some family Italian recipes.

Coming up: Dates for your diary

• December: Christmas dinner at The Thistle, Wellington. Menu and booking details to follow by email.
• January: Our club get-together returns with a shared high tea. Bring a plate and a bottle of wine to enjoy together.
• February: We’ll welcome Askerne Wines from Hawke’s Bay.

In wine news: An extraordinary Italian heist

Masked thieves have stolen around 30,000 bottles of premium Italian wine, worth more than NZ$8.9 million, from the historic Marchesi Antinori winery.

The haul included some of Italy’s celebrated Super Tuscan wines. The winery is asking buyers to be cautious about purchasing these wines from unfamiliar sellers.

A little housekeeping

Thanks to everyone who helps set up and pack away our tasting evenings. Your help makes a real difference.

And a friendly reminder: if you’re feeling unwell, please give the tasting a miss.

We look forward to seeing you for another enjoyable evening of wine and good company!