The pièce de résistance, the charcoal-grilled Iberico pork shoulder, draped in a veil of black raspberry sauce - a symphony of flavours that danced upon the palate. While we typically pair such meats with a fuller bodied wine, the acidity and dark, luscious berries entwined seamlessly with the Marlborough Pinot Noir, elevated the entire experience.

This is a dish I could envision recreating within the comfort of my own home, surrounded by friends and family.

At the Cloudy Bay Wonderscape event in Seoul, I found myself seated among a diverse group - chefs, wine enthusiasts, perfume connoisseurs, and fashion editors. Though an eclectic mix, they were all united by their shared passion for wine, which had brought them together that day.

I'm always curious to learn more about each person's unique journey with wine. If I were to meet people at a similar wine event, such as the Wonderscape event, I would start by asking a simple question to break the ice: "You must be quite the wine lover to be here - what are some of your favourite wines or a memorable wine experience?"

From there, I would aim to uncover the deeper stories and fond memories connected to their love of wine. Perhaps it's a treasured trip to a New Zealand winery, or the memory of sharing a special bottle with friends. By gently probing into those positive experiences, I hope to foster a deeper connection and learn more about what drew each person to this shared passion for wine.

Te Koko is undoubtedly my go-to wine. There are a few reasons why it captivates me!

First and foremost, I simply adore textured white wines, and Te Koko strikes the perfect balance. The fruit profile is wonderfully expressive, with notes of peach, nectarine, and a hint of tropical character. Yet, as the wine evolves in the glass, more nuanced flavours emerge - a seductive toastiness and whispers of nutmeg. On the palate, it seamlessly marries freshness and richness, creating a multifaceted experience.

But beyond the sheer sensory pleasure, I'm also drawn to the story behind this wine. Te Koko represents a unique style - a barrel-aged Sauvignon Blanc sourced from some of our finest vineyards, crafted only in exceptional vintages. During my visit to the winery last November, I learned about the innovative practices behind Te Koko. The winemakers use wild yeasts, with the starter culture derived directly from the vineyard's flowers, grapes, and leaves. They also employ concrete vats, which help to round out the wine's texture and impart minerality.

When it was first released in 1996, this wine was truly pushing the boundaries, and I'm endlessly fascinated by wines that challenge convention!

What made the Cloudy Bay Wonderscape so special was the way all the elements seamlessly came together. From the warm welcome by Sophia, to the exquisite cuisine crafted by the chef, to the refreshing Pelorus that quenched our thirst on that warm day - it was the perfect representation of the art of entertaining.

But the true magic lay in those intangible qualities that don't just make you enjoy the moment, but truly immerse you in it. There's a certain alchemy that occurs when wine is involved, a way it has of animating an experience, elevating it to something truly memorable.

As I sat there sipping the vibrant Sauvignon Blanc, listening to the music wafting through the air, I was struck by the simple pleasures that make life so rich. This was what it was all about - great wine, great food, and the company of cherished friends.

Read more about our 2024 Wonderscape event in South Korea below.