Uncorked: Marlborough’s reputation soars overseas

A question I have not fielded as much this summer as in the preceding months sprung back to life during the last two weeks: “Where are you from?”

That’s when I realised how far and wide Marlborough’s reputation has spread.
Readers who are new to this column (kia ora!) may not know I am a newcomer – just a half-year removed from setting foot here for the first time. I need only utter a half-sentence before my accent gives this away.

My wife and I booked a cruise before undertaking the move, and that set sail 5 March. The passenger list comprised Kiwis, Aussies, Pasifika, Asians, Europeans, and North Americans; perhaps others, given the nearly 3,000 on board.

Upon meeting, the first question mutually asked was “Where are you from?” No one expected to hear “From here” spoken like a Californian. Once I got more specific with “South Island”, then “Marlborough”, surprise melted into recognition.

Everyone, it seemed, knew Picton. In part, that’s because the  previous and subsequent sailings included our port on the itinerary; the ship docked here Sunday, in fact. Many knew Blenheim, too, either because they’d visited or favour one of our wineries.

Ah, yes, wine – a love that crosses countries, continents and cultures. Sommeliers had Marlborough vintages in the well-stocked shipboard cellars. The line is American and provides a lot of provisions from there, so this was no performative nod to the ports of call.

Technically at this point, I live in Marlborough but am not a resident. Amy and I are knee-deep in the process of replacing our fixed-duration visas with approvals to remain long-term. Even then, I’m decades away from being a true Marlburian … should I live that long.

Regardless, I am proud to call this place “home” and see glimmers of recognition turn into glows.

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