It’s only been a week since I arrived in Marlborough to work part of the 2010 vintage but I’m already in need of a rest!
I thought I was fit before I arrived at Jackson Estate but pulling hoses, plunging unyielding caps and working 12-hour shifts is a real test of stamina. The cellar boys have worked 12 days on the trot and I don’t know how they do it. If you wanted to get fit but hated the gym, taking on a cellar job would do the trick.
I’ve talked to the boys in the winery today and the hours are certainly the worst part of working vintage but the flip side is meeting people from all corners of the globe and seeing those grapes turn into the delicious final product. A glass of wine at lunchtime also makes life more bearable.
It’s back to the day job for me now and while I’m looking forward to resting my aching limbs, I’m sorely tempted to stay on for the vintage party, complete with a pig on a spit.
