With our commitment to Te Ao Māori and, to mark this inaugural Public Holiday, we have partnered with Esk Valley's Gordon Russell to curate a Food, Wine, Arts & Culture Celebration as part of our Culinary Series on Friday 24th June, 2022 at 6pm.

A feature on the evening will include artworks by Māori Artists curated by Milford Galleries.

A special nine course menu crafted by award-winning True South's Executive Chef Corey Hume will be matched with Esk Valley wines and matched to the nine stars of Matariki.

For $185.00 per person, guests will enjoy nine courses, nine wines including a welcome drink and canapes with entertainment. Hosted by Esk Valley's Winemaker, Gordon Russell and The Rees' Director of Wines, Mark Rose.

About Gordon Russell & Esk Valley

Gordon Russell has established himself as one of New Zealand's most recognised wine-making identities with his passionate approach to wine-making, and the enormous success he has achieved with his wines in tastings and competitions.

Since being appointed Esk Valley Winemaker in 1993 Esk Valley under Gordon’s guidance has established itself as one of New Zealand’s most iconic and innovative wine brands. The list of New Zealand first’s is impressive, including New Zealand’s first Malbec in 1999, New Zealand’s first Verdelho in 2002, and co-fermenting the three varieties from The Terraces Vineyard each vintage since 2001. The wines are all made in an artisanal manner including the use of concrete vessels for red wine fermentation. He aims to produce premium hand-crafted wines that are both elegant and sophisticated, which truly reflect the character of the individual vineyards.

“There’s little need for science in the way we make our wine. It’s more artisanal and so much more hands-off. It’s about understanding our vineyards and the possibilities they provide and interpreting the uniqueness of each vintage“ says Gordon.

Gordon was named as New Zealand Winemaker of the Year in 2007, an accolade befitting his skill and passion for wine-making.

In 2022, Gordon celebrated his 30th year as Winemaker for Esk Valley.

The Rees & Esk Valley’s Matariki Celebration Dinner
Residential Package - $402.50 per person

Inclusions:

One night’s stay in a Lake View Hotel Room with a complimentary upgrade
Two tickets to the nine course dinner and wine matches
Breakfast for two the next morning
Late check-out of 12pm midday

Additional ‘Bed and Breakfast’ nights of $435

To book this Residential Package, contact our Events Team via events@therees.co.nz

About Gordon Russell & Esk Valley

The Rees & Esk Valley’s Matariki Celebration DinnerResidential Package - $402.50 per personInclusions:

One night’s stay in a Lake View Hotel Room with a complimentary upgrade Two tickets to the nine course dinner and wine matchesBreakfast for two the next morning Late check-out of 12pm middayAdditional ‘Bed and Breakfast’ nights of $435

The Rees & Esk Valley’s Matariki Celebration Dinner
Residential Package - $402.50 per person

Inclusions:

One night’s stay in a Lake View Hotel Room with a complimentary upgrade
Two tickets to the nine course dinner and wine matches
Breakfast for two the next morning
Late check-out of 12pm midday

Additional ‘Bed and Breakfast’ nights of $435