The month-long Eat.Taste.Central. (E.T.C) showcase of Central’s food and drinks will entice the palates of locals and visitors next month.

Chefs have been creating their special dishes featuring locally and regionally sourced flavours and ingredients for inclusion on the regional menu.

“Entries have come from all corners of the district,” E.T.C campaign manager Anthony Longman said.

“This gives plenty of options to inspire people to get out and explore over the month, which has always been one of our key goals for running the campaign.”

The menu launches online on September 1 for people to plan where they will go and to pick what dish will inspire their taste buds. 

There are three categories: Burger and sandwich; pie; and main meal – each matched with a local wine or beverage.

The judging panel will select top picks and award an overall winner at the end of October.

A number of food, wine and cultural-focussed events take place during E.T.C’s sixth year of running. For example:

• October 8 - a long-lunch hosted by MiNDFOOD and master sommelier Cam Douglas at Carrick Winery & Restaurant, with food prepared by Gwen Harvie E.T.C chef of the year 2021.
• October 9 – a sub-regional tasting event featuring 23 vineyards from across the Central Otago sub-regions at Mt Difficulty’s barrel hall.
• October 3-9 - Bannockburn arts school and exhibition including a wine masterclass with winemakers of Bannockburn. 
• October 5-12 - special Eden Hore pop up photography exhibition spread across five cellar doors on Felton Road.
• October 23 – Alexandra Basin new release wine tasting with food and music at Clyde’s historic railway station reserve.  

Anthony said it was exciting to see favourite venues listed along with some new ones.

“Literally there is something for everyone. From the best of high-end restaurants and wineries to classic country hotels and burger bars.”

Alongside E.T.C, Tourism Central Otago will launch a new initiative to share Central’s unique story, ‘A World of Flavour’, established in partnership with the wider food and beverage industry.

“Through the campaign we will celebrate the Central Otago landscapes and highlight the linkages between our growers, artisan producers, tour operators, hospitality venues, educators, and visitors.”   

For more information on E.T.C, which runs from September 23 - October 24,click here.

The Central App is a proud sponsor and will have a dedicated ETC button on the main page of the App in the coming weeks.