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A devastating fire at Vilagrad Winery on June 29 required over 85 firefighters and nine utilities to contain the blaze over a six hour period. And while damage to the winery and restaurant was severe, the spirit of Vilagrad has not been dampened. Not only will the renowned winery reopen on Sunday 11 October, the Nooyen family is carrying on the proud tradition of being part of the Waikato Home and Garden Show. “It wouldn't be possible to reopen in such short time without an awesome team and community of family and friends,” says Jacob Nooyen, one of three brothers running Vilagrad. “We made the decision to go to the Home Show even though we are so busy. We're excited to be part of the show.”
Jacob acknowledged the support of Home Show organisers Hannah and Associates. “They have been very accommodating and understanding.”
This year Vilagrad will be located in the tunnelled area between the main building and the Smeg exhibition. Their large 100sqm site will be all dressed up and set out like a mini Vilagrad. Visitors will be treated to great food, award-winning Vilagrad wines, and live music. Delectable platters of local cheese, dried meats, spreads and homemade chutneys will showcase Waikato fare. An exquisite range of wines will be available to taste. Vilagrad is famed for creating high quality, hand-crafted wines that reflect the climate and soils of the region.
Jacob says the show is great opportunity for the Vilagrad team to share news of their reopening and Sunday lunches, as well as the Summervines Fire Festival on Saturday October 31. “We're hoping to have a good turn-out and support for our fundraisers. Money raised will help us with the rebuild.”
The Summervines Fire Festival features a line-up of performers on two stages, including the Black Seeds, Tiki Taane, P-Money, The Peacekeepers, Vegas Brown Band, Coral and more. Many of the 20-plus live acts are performing gratis.
Meanwhile, head to Vilagrads in the tunnel marquee between Heaphy and Brooklyn Courts at the Home Show and enjoy some genuine, home-grown hospitality.
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