– we are all right, and we are operational. Some asked if we needed money and we answered, "No thanks, we need business!" This was, and one year later still is, the main problem for us and the other local producers. We've all lost our core market in town, so we have had to look more around New Zealand and abroad. For small producers like us this has been a big task. The local business landscape has changed: suburban cafés and
restaurants are trading briskly, and a wide range of container- based venues are popping up everywhere. With its 'new normal', Christchurch is making architectural history too! Our cellar door sales have been increasing – no surprise, with all but two fine wine shops lost in town. In the past, we tried to discourage people from coming here for a bottle or two, to avoid undermining the business of the wine shops, which were our clients, so we would sell only by the case. Now that we have officially opened our cellar door, and are available for sale by the bottle, we see people coming to buy wine by the case, answering that primeval need to keep stock in case of new emergencies. No one in Christchurch will ever be found without enough supplies, either in the pantry or in the cellar, or, as it was our predicament at the time, without dog food! Demolition in town is going ahead, and will take years to finish
and rebuild infrastructures. Meanwhile repairs have started at a good pace, which is creating the problem of replacing our cellar hands and casual workers, now busy in the reconstruction sector. We'll have to be creative. I lament the lack of local Benedictine monasteries … their "pray and work" motto would come in handy indeed. Luckily, this problem won't affect the harvest, for which we have the help we need from our neighbourhood. Over the years it has become a social event, another way to enjoy the nature and to build community relationships. Hard work, when shared, fortifies the body and steadies the nerves. Wilma Laryn www.cracroftchase.co.nz
Recommended Wines
2008 Pisa Range Estate Black Poplar Pinot Noir
When it comes to my reds, I want them powerful and elegant. This Pisa Range Pinot Noir, with its fruity depth, delivers on both accounts.
2008 Cracroft Chase Wood's Edge Pinot Gris
Dry, with a rich mouth feel and a long finish, versatile and food-friendly. It is the perfect companion to year-round meals.
2008 Sandihurst Gewürztraminer
An intriguing, intensely aromatic wine. Medium-dry, it is well suited to those daring forays into spiced food.
HER MAGAZINE | February/March 2012| 81
