On Yer Bike

...is the name of the self-directed cycling wine tour we took today in Hawkes Bay near Napier. We were provided with a bicycle with basket, helmet, boxed lunch, water bottle and map. We stopped at seven wineries and did a wine tasting at six. Keith drinks red and the popular red wine of the region is Syrah also known as Shiraz in Australia. I drink white and there is alot of selection, both oaked and unoaked Chardonnay, Arneis and Viognier. Although I am not usually a fan of Chardonnay the wine of this region is delicious. We both enjoyed the Roses and we also tried a lovely dessert wine not unlike ice wine called a Noble Viognier. Each winery was different and the Someliers were welcoming and educated us on the various grapes. It was a full day and lots of fun!