Lizard Island, Delaware North’s owned-and-operated resort on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, recently hosted the inaugural Penfolds Collection Weekend, celebrating the 175th anniversary of the iconic winery.
The two-night event was attended by 26 guests and a “passion project” for Lizard Island’s new executive chef, Ryan Squires. Squires worked with Penfolds for three months to create a menu based around the nuances of each wine.
On Friday, guests enjoyed a masterclass on the limited-edition Champagne Thienot x Penfolds Chardonnay Pinot Noir Cuvee, served with canapes at sunset on the deck of the island’s only cliff-top, two-bedroom villa.
Squires served Australian Bay crustacean, chicken bone tokay, coal-roasted kangaroo and delicate gnocchi at Saturday night’s barefoot five-course dinner on the beach. Each course was served with a perfectly-paired wine.
Penfolds is one of Australia’s oldest and most iconic wineries, with wines known for their diversity, history and longevity. Throughout the weekend, guests were introduced to 22 of the 27 wines in Penfolds’ 2019 collection – a celebration of five vintages, seven varietals and 12 regions – 174 bottles of wine in all.
Delaware North has owned Lizard Island since 2009, offering spa treatments, fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, guided walks, tennis and gym facilities. The remote property features 40 rooms and villas, 24 private beaches and world-class dining.