Overcast weather did little to dampen spirits as thousands gathered in Clyde yesterday for the town\u2019s longest-running event, the annual Clyde Wine and Food Harvest Festival.<\/p>\n
Surrounded by the historic precinct and its autumnal colours, festival-goers sampled wine, beer and food, while soaking up the relaxed atmosphere and live music.<\/p>\n
Event convener and Promote Dunstan chairwoman Julie Davie said the festival, now in its 23rd year, remained a highlight for the community over the Easter weekend.<\/p>\n
\u2018\u2018It\u2019s one of the only events held in a historical precinct, so it\u2019s such a privilege to have it,\u2019\u2019 she said.<\/p>\n
By early afternoon, more than 2000 people had arrived, with numbers expected to grow throughout the day.<\/p>\n
The festival featured 18 vineyards from across the Alexandra basin, alongside a wide range of food vendors showcasing Central Otago produce.<\/p>\n
Ms Davie said the event was a strong community effort, with the Clyde Lions Club helping set up and the local school operating the gates.<\/p>\n
Among the stallholders was first-time attendee Paul Russell, owner of Horatio Wines, who said the day had got off to a strong start.<\/p>\n
\u2018\u2018It\u2019s going good \u2014 really good,\u2019\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n
\u2018\u2018There\u2019s been lots of rose in the morning which is to be expected, there\u2019ll be red in the afternoon and we\u2019ll just see where the evening goes.\u2019\u2019<\/p>\n
Nearby, longtime participants Clyde Village Vineyard were once again pouring for the crowds.<\/p>\n
Co-owner Chris Cockroft, who ran the vineyard with her husband John, said supporting the local event was important to them.<\/p>\n
\u2018\u2018We\u2019re so local and right in Clyde.<\/p>\n
\u2018\u2018We want to support our town \u2014 it helps boost visitors and it\u2019s great to showcase the historical buildings,\u2019\u2019 she said.<\/p>\n
Their award-winning rose and pinot noir proved popular throughout the day.<\/p>\n
Dunedin business The Port Larder was also drawing interest with a wide range of jams, chutneys, pesto and hot sauce.<\/p>\n
Owner Di Noone said the festival created a welcoming environment for both vendors and visitors.<\/p>\n
Ms Noone said it was her first year as a stallholder at the festival; she had visited the previous year and loved the atmosphere of the event.<\/p>\n
\u2018\u2018It\u2019s just being surrounded by nice, friendly people all very happy to taste and buy,\u2019\u2019 she said.<\/p>\n
With wine flowing, she said spiced items such as hot sauces and chutneys had been in demand.<\/p>\n
\u2018\u2018With all the lovely wine, I think people are wanting something with a bit of a hit on the palate.\u2019\u2019<\/p>\n
Proceeds from the event will be shared between the Dunstan Hope Trust and the Clyde Fire Station.<\/p>\n