Festival fills up as rain recedes

The streets of the Clyde Heritage Precinct were packed as visitors flocked to sample the food and...
The streets of the Clyde Heritage Precinct were packed as visitors flocked to sample the food and wine on offer at the annual Clyde Wine and Food Harvest Festival held on Sunday. PHOTO: ELLA JENKINS
The gloomy weather did not keep the crowds from descending on the Clyde Heritage Precinct for the 22nd annual Clyde Wine and Food Harvest Festival held yesterday.

Festival convener Julie Davie said the weather was initially a worry but once the rain had cleared people began trickling in steadily.

There were plenty of food and wine options available and the streets were packed with people enjoying what was on offer.

Central Otago wines were a feature, and for those feeling peckish, Kiwi staples such as cheese rolls were among the options when it came to food.

Live music was on hand to keep visitors entertained with some dancing in front of the stage, the lively atmosphere proving a contrast to the gloomy weather.

Grey Ridge Vineyard owner Sue Keast said the crowds had improved by noon once the rain had stopped. She and her husband Paul had sold wine consistently since.

This was their 10th time at the festival and this year their white pinot noir was popular with visitors.

Judge Rock Wines owner Paul Jacobson said sales had been good despite the wet start, and festival-goers had appreciated the wines on offer.

‘‘It’s the best little food and wine festival in New Zealand,’’ he said.

ella.jenkins@odt.co.nz