Amber wine is the world’s oldest and most distinctive wine style, almost forgotten and abandoned after two world wars, then rediscovered half a century later to become one of the most on-trend wine styles of the present day. Millennia of Georgian history and the deep traditions of Slovenia and Friuli have inspired many modern styles and winemaking techniques around the world. The skin-contact style, in which white grapes are fermented with their skins like a red wine, has reinvented itself through a myriad of grape varieties, fermentation and ageing vessels, piquing the interest of wine enthusiasts who have affectionately coined the term ‘orange wine’ for their glowing glass. What is a Qvevri? Who uses clay amphorae? Why would you ferment grapes in the earth? Noble Rot will be showcasing wines from benchmark producers worldwide as we present the fascinating story of skin-contact styles, delving deep into the history, winemaking techniques and diversity of amber wines over a delicious four-course degustation menu. Explore the amber revolution - a special rags to riches story in which you'll discover how the world learnt to love orange wine.

Back by popular demand! Long lunches are something to be treasured amongst friends and family and Noble Rot’s legendary Long Lunch has long been a firm favourite. You’ll be joined by some of the Wairarapa’s finest winemakers who will be bringing some special treats from their own cellars to share with you. While away the afternoon with some delicious food served in a shared, social, relaxed environment. Is there a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon?

French regions with names such as Champagne, Burgundy, Bordeaux and Rhône produce some of the most prestigious wines in the world. Hailing from Lyon in south-east France, Noble Rot sommelier Florent Souche is excited to share his journey with you through some of his favourite drops from his homeland. This selection of wine has been expertly paired to a French-themed degustation menu where regional cuisine is executed with French flair by Head Chef Nicolas Mentzas. Vive la France!

“Life is like a box of chocolates - you never know what you're going to get” – Forrest Gump

Chocolate’s 4,000-year history began in present day Mexico where it was used in rituals and as medicine. Mayans, Aztecs and the Spanish have all celebrated liquid chocolate as the drink of the Gods. Now’s your chance to understand why as Elle Crocker, head judge for the New Zealand Chocolate Awards, adds a taste of indulgence to a five-course degustation menu where chocolate is the hero. Not just for the sweet tooth, these dishes will inspire your senses and celebrate chocolate in its many forms and flavours. All courses artistically paired with wines which champion chocolate as a worthy dinner companion.

With New Zealand’s modern winemaking history now over 40 years old, styles are changing as a new generation of winemakers take the reins through an important phase in our evolution. Join John Saker, experienced wine judge and wine writer, to reflect on fine wines from the past and present, before providing insight into the evolving landscape and future of the New Zealand wine industry. For this five-course degustation menu, Noble Rot will draw inspiration from New Zealand’s oceans, rivers, mountains and grasslands to share with you the best of Aotearoa's produce paired with some of the finest wines from across the land. A celebration of North to South, right here in our home.

“Remember, gentlemen, it’s not just France we are fighting for, it’s Champagne!” – Winston Churchill

This event is sure to sparkle! Sparkling wine is used to celebrate every kind of occasion and we want you to celebrate with us. From champagne to prosecco, from cava to cap classique, specialist sparkling winemaker Melinda Skinner of Esses Wines will take your taste buds on an effervescent exploration of marvellous méthodes and fantastic fizz from all corners of the globe. A special five-course degustation will take you beyond oysters and canapés, showcasing how different styles of bubbles can be paired with every dish on the menu. Tickets include amuse bouche, five-course meal, and nine wines across the evening.

Why do truffles tantalise our taste buds and send us into such a crazy kerfuffle? These phenomenal fungi become marvellous mushrooms then paired with fine wines and have become a sommelier’s dream. Special guest George of George’s Truffles, one of New Zealand’s most avid truffle hunters, will share his passions for these elusive fungi. The Noble Rot team will bring to life a uniquely decadent five-course degustation menu where truffles are the star of every course from entrée to dessert. This event cannot cater to dietary requirements