Virtuoso Life - September/October 2008 - (Page 71) is a historic Queen Anne-style homestead with seven exquisitely decorated guest suites. Every detail has been fashioned to provide a total immersion in late-nineteenth-century luxury, yet with twenty-first-century amenities such as rain showers and Wi-Fi. The kitchen draws from the property’s own garden, orchards, and remarkably deep wine cellar. From approximate $757, including breakfast daily and a gourmet picnic hamper with a bottle of New Zealand wine. worldwide. From the beginning, the Otago wines have displayed a depth of flavor, perfume, and texture that is exceptional. In a few years, when the vineyards reach full maturity, these wines will challenge Burgundy’s. (Remember: You read it here first!) SIP: Valli 2006 Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir ($52). Other Central Otago wineries making top-notch pinot noir are Akarua, Amisfield, Carrick, Felton Road, Mt. Difficulty, Peregrine, and Two Paddocks, which is owned by actor Sam Neill. Stay: Central Otago If you saw any of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, you already know how spectacularly beautiful this southernmost wine region is. The otherworldly landscapes around the quaint and genteel city of Queenstown offer variegated vineyards that flow between mountains and through gorges. Of all the New Zealand regions, Central Otago has the greatest potential for making world-class pinot noir. In the short time it has been producing wine – only 20 years – it has caught the attention of pinot lovers Less than an hour from Queenstown, at the north end of Lake Wakatipu, stands Blanket Bay, a modern 12-room alpine lodge. This year-round resort offers outdoor activities such as fishing, skiing, and hiking, or indoor activities, such as wine tasting and fine dining – all surrounded by the breathtaking grandeur of the Humboldt Mountains. From approximate $719, including breakfast daily and lunch for two once during stay. Valli hails from Central Otago, New Zealand’s most promising source of pinot. Our outdoor pool. MySwitzerland.com In Zürich, a total of around 2,000 bars and restaurants pamper guests’ palates with culinary delicacies from all over the world. Moreover, between spring and fall these are supplemented by some 480 open-air restaurants. In Swiss cities the attractions are never far apart. Explore our cities on foot, discover the highlights, and enjoy whatever treats you fancy along the way. Call your Virtuoso travel advisor for reservations. Zürich
For optimal viewing of this digital publication, please enable JavaScript and then refresh the page. If you would like to try to load the digital publication without using Flash Player detection, please click here.