"Hunt" wrote (jealously).......

> I can imagine some nice SB's from Marlborough, or nearby, that would go
> well with that meal. Were the scollops pan fried, or did you do a sauce?

Actually, I dived (snorkelled - sans wetsuit I might add, a bit bloody cold
too!) and picked them myself, in a little over 10' of water (although I did
not get my limit, they all were 5-6" shellfish)

Our fishing regulations specify that the shells must be a minimum of 100mm
(4") across, so they are always big and fat during the harvesting season
(also regulated).

Left in a bucket of sea water for a couple of hours (to expel any sand or
grit) then opened, cleaned, leaving the muscle and attached (bright orange)
row, then, immediately, lightly pan fried in butter, with a smidgeon of
white pepper and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (also straight out of the
orchard!)

With the scallops, I served a 2004 Wither Hills Sauvignon Blanc
(Marlborough) (correct me if I am wrong, but although this winery is not the
smallest one around, their wines seem to be hard to find in the US)

At this time of the spring, Sea Trout (Kahawai in the local vernacular) are
feeding close in-shore. These are feisty little buggers
growing up to 80cm (what's that, about 2'8") - they chase a moving lure,
towed behind our dingy and outboard.

I pulled in 12 in 15/20 minutes - all between 2' - 2"6" these are real
fighters when on the line - great fun.

Filleted and (beer) battered and pan fried - not exactly a mild subtle
flavoured fish - but just great with salad and copious quantities of
Palliser Estate Sauvignon.

Usually, I am a very light sleeper, happy to get 4/5 hours sleep a night -
but in that environment, I crash for a full 7 hours.


> That sounds like a perfect NZ Labo[u]r Day.

Actually, I have an open invitation to the Island, but usually only manage
2/3 times a year - more's the pity.


> Sorry for the extra "l" in your nym,

Actually, not a pseudonym - full name - Alexander Andrew St.Helier-Bourke
(family origins Scotland; Jersey Island, Ireland - now 100% NZer)

It was Ian Hoare who christened me Lord St.Helier - now half my friends call
me "Your Lordship"

> I'll make amends with a glass of Zin in your hono[u]r. ;-)))))

Actually, I have a couple bottle of Ridge Lytton Springs tucked away
downstairs awaiting a suitable occasion - I keep them well out of sight, as
I have a policy - never keep wines which might live longer than I !!!!!

atb

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st.helier