Toast Martinborough 2009

The weather was “breezy” this year but that didn’t affect wine drinkers. Toast Martinborough Wine Food and Music Festival 2009 still poured in the punters even if tents fell down thanks to gale force winds.

Thankfully wine barrels stood solid and back up generators were on hand.

Below: Hang onto your hats! Bright and breezy weather doesn't deter guests at Toast Martinborough.

Solidly popular in its 18th consecutive year, with drinkers flying from as far as Auckland, Wairarapa showcased its usual great food range (Virgin Mary Oyster Shots, Whitebait fritters, Venison kebabs) wine (the usual suspects) and entertainment, ranging from Elvis to Rhombus.

Tickets were snapped up in a record 13 minutes this year and if weather can’t slow it down, what can?

Toast Martinborough is an institution; much sturdier than a tent and aging better than a bottle of Pinot Noir. Judging by the smiles on punters faces, it was also the best breath of fresh air you can get on such a breezy Sunday.

Here’s to next year!

Sally Christie, November 2009