Grape Vine

My dear Family and Friends,

I do not know wear time has gone! Already it is almost the end of January 2011! I am much more settled here than I was at first. I am renting off a brother in the local Blenheim congregation. I have made some good Friends here and have done some great things.

I spent almost two weeks with my friends Michelle and Tony in Northland in the far north of the North island. I had a lovely time with them. Its quite sub tropical wear they live. In my spare time in Blenheim i have been on some nice outings with friends to different places. We have our district assembly in Nelson next week end. 

The work here is tough but I am much more used to things now and i am part of the team at Pro-Vine Viticulture which is reassuring. Usually when i learn a new job i am slower but once i get better i pick up speed, Like anything i suppose.

Our team mainly work for Oyster bay Vineyards. Oyster bay own several Vineyards and cover a large area in Marlborough growing grapes for the production of some award winning White wines sold worldwide. 

Since the beginning of December i have learnt various jobs on the Vineyards, Learning the huge array of jobs that have to be done in order for you to enjoy a glass of chilled New Zealand White wine!

Harvest is getting nearer so at the moment we are reducing the amount of bunches per Vine, This is a tedious fiddly job but as an important task. Oyster bays Vineyard managers consult with the Viticulturists and Winemakers regarding steps to take, taking into consideration the science behind the art of Expertise Wine making!

The rule of thumb is a Struggling Vine makes good Wine. So good wine is made from a vine that has fewer bunches than an over vigorous vine of many smaller bunches. Good air ventilation and high light levels are very important. I am reading up on Viticulture and combined with work this is a very rewarding experience.

The Harvest is getting nearer so there is allot to do, I am hoping to stay here in Blenheim until the Kiwi Autumn/Winter, then travel! Vanuatu still under planning.

I will update the blog every 2 weeks from now on and will add photos soon,

Cheers,

Felix