While the new always gets the lion’s share of publicity (which thrives on the new(s)), it’s great to be reminded of the oldies but goodies.
Delheim, for example. Their first wine-making tanks were built by Italian prisoners of war in 1944, the cement tanks spoiling the first harvest because the winemakers didn’t seal the cement properly. The first labelled bottle went out in 1958, a sweet wine. For a New World winery, this is a good bit of history.
They have recently done major renovations to their cellar, for it was built piecemeal as the needs of the business grew, and all that wood and later foamalite is no longer a safe medium for a winery. So it’s all been stripped out and replaced.
Their cellar restaurant has also seen a few changes, with a more modern kitchen in place, but the style is still hearty country fare, and highly recommended for a lazy lunch while trying some fine wines, the reds my favourites.
I hope they have not changed their menu too much. Delheim is my favourite lunch spot in the entire world. And I’ll be able to return there in just over a weeks time, British Airways willing