Beer, Bikes & Vintage - A trio of challenges!

Hi,

It's been a busy few months here in Mudgee with not everything wine related for a change, read on to see what we've been up to...

Beer

As a special project prompted by some of my riding buddies I have teamed up with the local Mudgee Brewing Co to produce a limited edition Belgian Bock style beer we have named "De Winter". We are intending to produce a different batch each season and we encourage you to try a bottle or two and let us know what you think! 

A smooth, rich amber brew offering hints of banana, honey & figs balanced with the mild bitter flavours of Styrian golding hops.

Avaialbale in 750ml bottles - More info and purchasing here...

Bikes

Some would say rather foolishly I have signed up to take part in the Gibb River Challenge - a 700+km Socially Competitive (what's that?) Mountain Bike Ride through the Kimberly region of Western Australia. It's all to help raise funds for the Black Dog Institute (all donations gratefully accepted...) and after riding that far through that country I might be in need of some therapy!

To see what I've let myself in for, visit their website here:

http://www.thegibbchallenge.net.au

Vintage

Vintage has been a bit of a roller coaster ride with all the late Spring rain and then some during harvesting as well. Fortunately we have managed to dodge the worst of it and can happily report that and while the quantity is low the quality is still superb, especially with the Muller Thurgau, Verdelho and Chardonnay.

We have also been busy in the vineyard planting a new variety called Tannat, a red variety with vibrant colour and firm tannins and will be one to look out for in the future.

That's about it for now. I hope you get the chance to taste our beer before it's all gone and wish me well whilst I'm "enjoying" myself in WA! See you soon at the winery...

Cheers,

Phil van Gent - Owner & Winemaker
www.pvgwinery.com.au

PS: All our wines and gift items including our special ceramic bottled white port, oak casks and gift selections can be ordered through our online cellar door: www.pvgwinery.com.au