Potato Pak Man!

Clare had been the driver of JBT (the van) since we had purchased it, so I had yet to have a go at driving on the other side. My first experience was out of necessity, I had set up an appointment with Richard Williams, the founder of the Potato Pak, in Blenheim. Clare stayed behind to finish up the farm chores and I hit the road in search of Potato Pak Man.

After talking about my interests in sustainability, Graham referred me to one of his many acquaintances. He grew up in the area so he knows just about everything and everyone in town. He said to check out this "POM" (an english guy) and his packaging made from potatoes. They were completely compostable and he was right there in Blenheim!

I got a little lost on my first outing in JBT. Navigating while learning to drive on the left side of the road was challenging but doable. I had my cell phone and called Richard to let him know I was running late... he was very understanding. The upside of my detour was that I was getting a scenic view of all the surrounding vineyards and wineries, taking note for a later visit.

I arrived to this industrial park on the outskirts of Blenheim. Still a beautiful setting but a bunch of metal warehouses nonetheless. Richard was a nice fellow and introduced me to his partner. They showed me the packaging line and the room where they mix up the raw materials. The main ingredient was sourced from potato waste from nearby chip companies. Other than food packaging products, they also make hospital trays and air conditioning vents, all 100% biodegradable... they said I could even eat it if I wished. No thanks.

On my way back to the Farm, I stopped at Mount Riley Winery. I had read an article on their Sauvingon Blanc. I was the only one in the tasting room and had a great time. I bought a bottle of the 17 valley Sav. Blanc, it was nicely balanced. The grapes had been hand picked and the juice fermented in oak.