What’s more satisfying than good food and even better friends? I had the privilege of attending the most recent gathering of Blenheim’s women-only lunch group Lamb Chop & Pinot.
The founders, Jan Bilton and Marge Scott, were everything I admire in women: authentic, talented and generous. Both are involved in the dining scene, with Jan an accredited food writer and Marge a wine connoisseur.
Lamb Chop & Pinot attendees meet up once a month at a local venue to enjoy a three-course meal paired with equally exquisite drinks from businesses within the community. As Jan explained, she and Marge started the group in July 2025 “because we wanted to support the local restaurants and wineries”.
Their most recent event was held on 24 July at the Blenheim club, with catering by Urban Fare. Winemaker Ben McLauchlan made an appearance, introducing his Balvonie Prosecco – which made me instantly regret my decision to drive to the luncheon – while Kaitlyn Smid presented a gorgeous pinot noir from Two Rivers.
The name Lamb Chop & Pinot is a clever twist on the well-known men’s dining club Beefsteak & Burgundy. The Marlborough group believes women deserve to be included in the tradition.
“Women love to get together,” Jan asserts – and by the excited atmosphere and fruitful conversation I witnessed, she couldn’t be more correct. “It’s been so successful and a lot of fun.”
RSVP required
Jan and Marge shoulder all the heavy lifting for Lamb Chop & Pinot. The duo meticulously plan events three months in advance and send out an email on the first of the month detailing the upcoming cuisine experience.
From then on, it is first-in first-served, with the lunch meetups typically for 30-32 women. The list is usually full within 48 hours, Jan noted.
There is no cost to join Lamb Chop and Pinot; those who attend simply pay at the door. The menu range is vast and everchanging: The women have sampled Brazilian cuisine at Gramado’s, Japanese dishes at Saku and gins at Roots Gin.
Along with the social aspect, the gatherings also aim to increase knowledge around foods and wines.
“It’s an educational thing,” Jan said. “A lot of women go to a restaurant and get a glass of wine, but they don’t know the history behind that glass of wine, and we are trying to teach them that.”
To join Lamb Chop & Pinot, reach out through the group’s Facebook page, email janbilton@irvineholt.co.nz or call 021 627 771.
