Westport to Blenheim

A long drive through the mountains to get to the east coast. We stopped for coffee on the way at a place called Murchison. The hotel had been there since 1860 and had served lunch to the Prince of Wales in 1920. Other than that the proprietor had been arrested in 1952 for robbing a train in Western Australia. He was recognized from the description that had been circulated by the Australian police by the local constable. He was arrested, extradited and sent, by air to Perth. In 1990's they had an earthquake that registered 7.6 on the Richter scale. Not bad for a tiny little place in the middle of nowhere! Blenheim is the center of the Marlborough wine district. On the drive in we passed mile after mile of new vineyards being planted. I suspect that we will either see a reduction in the price of New Zealand white wines, or at least , much more choice. This afternoon was spent sampling the fruits of their labors. Very tasty Sauvignon Blanc's, an interesting Pinot Gris, a somewhat thin Pinot Noir. Luckily, Juicy found her way back to the stable without too much trouble.