Aussie food writer samples Central's goodies

GLORIOUS FOOD: MasterChef Australia judge and food critic Matt Preston with Mark and Marianne Grinward, of Central Gourmet in Clyde.

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A culinary tour of Central Otago by a leading Australian food writer has been hailed as a coup for the region's niche producers and wineries.

For three days colourful MasterChef Australia judge and food critic Matt Preston sniffed out story ideas for a food magazine.

Residents of Clyde were thrilled yesterday when the London-born foodie, sporting his trademark cravat, strolled into town.

The visit, organised by Tourism New Zealand and Tourism Central Otago, follows the ratings success of the Australian spinoff from the original British MasterChef.

Mark Grinward, of Central Gourmet in Clyde, said he and wife Marianne were a little nervous before the half-hour meeting because of Mr Preston's no-nonsense style.

But it turned out to be a lot of fun, he said. There was a "lively discussion" about whether or not wine tasting was subjective.

Preston's eyes twinkled when he was presented with a bottle of Aravin 2007, a Romeo Bragato champion pinot noir, he said.

"He was jovial, nothing but lovely and complimentary. He loved Clyde."

There was also a flying visit to Two Paddocks winery, owned by New Zealand-born Hollywood actor Sam Neill.

General manager Mark Field said Preston sampled five wines, including a 2003 pinot noir and was "personable, chatty and approachable".

Tourism Central Otago development manager Michelle Kinney said it was coup for the region.

She said Preston's visit to New Zealand was "pretty much focused" on Central Otago.

Preston's article will be published in Delicious magazine.

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