A new venue partnership was launched in Marlborough recently when Continental became the exclusive catering providers at Blenheim’s Montana Brancott Winery.

Continental, the South Island’s premium event catering, marquee and hire equipment specialists, has been taking care of high profile private and public events in the region for some years and the partnership is a natural fit, says managing director, Greg Ward.

“We are delighted to add this venue to our exclusive catering portfolio.  Everything about it – from the fittings and facilities to the colour palette and location - exudes the aesthetic appeal and romance that is associated with this stunning world-renowned wine-growing region."

Kathy Hughes, Montana Brancott Winery Visitor Centre manager, is excited about the new exclusive catering relationship with Continental.

“Montana Brancott Winery is certainly an extraordinary Marlborough venue that we are extremely proud, of and we’re looking forward to Continental creating outstanding cuisine to complement the cellar door wine tasting experience.”

The largest winery venue in the region, Montana Brancott Winery offers a variety of options for the meetings, conference and incentives, wedding and special occasion markets, capable of hosting functions and events from two guests through to 500, with a variety of impressive spaces available that can be matched to the occasion.

These include the restaurant which seats 150 comfortably with a dance floor, plus seating for 70 outside; the Kaituna Barrel Hall, a vast space with the original massive cuve barrels down one side of the Hall suitable for up to 270 seated diners; the Brancott Theatre complete with a Steinway piano and seating 200 theatre-style; The Tower – perfect for intimate meetings and dining for eight people; the Brancott Lounge, also for private functions of 25-50 people with the added advantage of having its own kitchen to one side; The Tasting Room for group tastings for up to 40 people; and a large Cellar Door area for sampling and cellar door purchases including branded merchandise, featuring an impressive eight-metre high cathedral ceiling.

In addition, Montana Brancott Winery operates tours of the working winery and vineyard every day, offering visitors fascinating insight into the world of winemaking and finishing with the ever-popular sampling session.  Tailored tours, that might include helicopter transfers, guest speakers, entertainment and custom cuisine options, can also be arranged on request.

Overseeing the food and beverage operations for Continental in Marlborough is Matthieu de Gottal, who also manages another exclusive Continental venue, Christchurch’s Mona Vale Homestead. 

Matthieu de Gottal says the new cuisine style aims to reflect the charming ambiance of the region while at the same time enhancing the quality of the wines and the smart professionalism of the venue. 

“With the food itself, we’re aiming for simple but effective presentation, and clean, honest flavours designed to enhance the palette, the wine and the total experience.

“What we’re witnessing here is the partnership of a company that is passionate about wine and hospitality and a company that is passionate about food: to my mind that’s a perfect fit for both the customer and for the region.”