Here’s a summary of the August 2026 newsletter from The Cellar Club Inc.
Event Announcement
-
Riverby Estate Tasting Night
- Date: Wednesday, 12 August, 8pm
- Location: Marlborough’s Jacksons Road
- Door Price: Members $12 / Guests $16
- Riverby Estate is a family-owned vineyard with a history dating back over 100 years
- Wines featured include Gruner Veltliner 2024, Sauv/Semillon White Blend 2021, Pinot Gris 2025, Cicada Gewurztraminer 2025, Sali’s Block Riesling, Pinot Noir 2022, and Reserve Pinot Noir 2023.
Club Updates
- 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.
Recent Events
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.
Committee News
- 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.
Upcoming Events
- September: Del Mundo – Wines from Argentina
- October: JK 14 Wines – Wines from Italy
- November: Beach House Wines, Hawkes Bay
- December: Christmas Dinner (Wednesday, 9th December)
Membership
- Annual subscription ($25) is now due. Payment can be made via bank transfer or at the August tasting.
Wine Industry News
- 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.
Next Johnsonville Club Event
- 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.
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Date & Time: Wednesday, 10th June, 8pm