By now, you’ve probably flicked through this issue of Newcastle Weekly and spotted the rather good-looking bunch on the cover. That’s us—the owners, winemakers, and assorted characters from Around Hermitage.
If you spot us this weekend, don’t be disappointed if we aren’t quite as polished in real life. That cover took plenty of squinting, blinking, and far more takes than any of us care to admit!
That’s your first behind-the-scenes story, and that’s what D’Vine Weekend is really about. This magazine tells you where to go; I’m here to tell you what to ask.
Around Hermitage is special because we’re proudly independent. We aren’t run from a boardroom. The owners are mowing the lawns, fixing pumps, tasting barrels, worrying about the weather, and welcoming you at the cellar door—often all in the same day.
You don’t just taste wine here; you meet the people who risked everything to make it. Skip “What’s your best seller?” and ask the real questions:
“How much beer do you actually drink during vintage?”
“Which wine nearly broke your heart?”
“At what point during harvest do you question your life choices?”
“Which wine are you secretly most proud of?”
These stories aren’t on the back label, though fair warning: ask a winemaker one good question, and you’ll still be there 20 minutes later!
Every winery around Hermitage has its own personality, with no script and no marketing department telling us what to say. Just real people, real wines, and the occasional confession.
Come explore Around Hermitage, discover hidden gems, ask questions, and stay longer than planned. When you find yourself at Latitude 32 Wines, pop in and say hello. Tell me you read this, and I’ll happily pour you a glass and prove I really do look like the cover photo… on a good day.
One final tip: Book ahead! The best experiences fill quickly. We can’t wait to welcome you.
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