If you needed another reason to go to Mudgee, we have found one.

But, from the beginning - we received an invitation from the winemaker David Lowe and some of it read;
'“We are planning a great night of food, wine and entertainment,” said David. “It will be something a bit different, with dinner served under a tunnel of grapevines in the vineyard.  There will be music from the Ray Vanderby Quartet, our reserve wines and an Italian banquet prepared by Kim Currie.”

“The vineyard is looking fantastic at the moment, and it’s very rare that anyone gets an opportunity to sit amongst the vines and enjoy a meal and entertainment.  It should be quite special.”

Kim Currie is one of the region’s leading ‘foodies’. She heads up the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW’s Fine Foods Committee and has 25 years experience as a wine and food specialist.

“The produce for the Italian banquet will be sourced from around the region.  There is such diversity and quality in the area; it is really exciting to be able to work these producers to showcase the food of the region,” Kim said'.

After reading this and realising that it had been a few years since we had the chance to explore Mudgee, we contacted the Mudgee Region Tourism to get all the latest maps and information, accepted David's invite and jumped into the car.

From Sydney, Mudgee is an easy 3.5 hour drive and as we drove into the valley, we were greeted with lush fields and fruit trees and vines bursting with produce.

The Tunnel of Lowe – The winery is just a short drive from town (in a taxi) and the vista of the green grass and the trellises almost bending with succulent, organically grown grapes, patiently waiting to be turned into nectar of the gods, thrown in with a beautiful sunset – well we just knew that this was going to be a very special evening.

As the balance of the guests arrived, David made sure we were entertained with great conversation, some of his finest tipples and live music.

The banquet tables were set between the Shiraz vines, with coloured lights adding the perfect effect.

As each course was served, David presented the wines and we were glad we had taxied out. This was not just a sip and pose event.

We had made notes about Kim Currie's food, but on reflection, it really was one of those occasions of epicurean delight. You just had to be there!

Next, we thanked David for the Light & Sound show, but he declined the praise as it was an electrical storm lighting up the vast valley.

Grab your glass and a bottle and head for the winery cellar. We made it without too much precipitation on our personage and just in time. The heavens opened big time, but there was no complaints, as dessert and fine cheese were served with a special Riesling.

What a grand and very special evening, we will never forget.

 

But Click, there is more...