Langtons to go global with new international wine classification

Australian fine wine authority Langtons, which publishes the respected classification of Australian wines, is to go global.

Langtons announced today that it will launch its inaugural Classification of International Wine later this year. 

The Classification of Australian Wine has been a trusted guide for benchmarking local wines in the fine
wine market since 1990.

“Australian wine palates are diverse and ever-expanding, with international wines holding an established presence in the collections of the country’s top wine drinkers," says Langtons GM Tamara Grischy. 

"The Langtons Classification of International Wine will be a vital resource for these collectors by highlighting the finest global wines that drive the Australian auction market."

Set to be unveiled in early August, the Langton Classification of International Wine will feature a

collection of 160 wines from across the world’s top wine regions in France, Italy, New Zealand, US, Spain, Portugal and Germany ( but surprisingly not Argentina, or South Africa). 

The list has been developed through secondary market auction data collected over the last five years from every international bottle that has been traded through Langtons. 

Just like its Australian counterpart, the Classification of International Wine is not based on opinion, wine show medals or scores, but data reflective of the country’s top fine wine collectors.

“We look at every bottle of wine internationally that’s sent into Langtons," says Langtons head of auctions Michael Anderson. "This includes aspects such as a wine’s previous bidding history; its clearance rate; and changes to its current value versus when the wine was bought.” 

The purpose is two fold. First, it will provide insights into the secondary market trends to assist those avid investors and collectors of fine wine, and secondly it will also act as an authoritative guide for those in search of a high-quality international wine for enjoying now.

Anderson says that the Classification of International Wine will feature a mix of hard to find cult classics and established titans of the fine wine trade, indicating new shifts in the fine wine space.

See langtons.com.au.

Chef Stone to return home to guide kitchen at Waldorf Astoria Sydney

Internationally acclaimed chef Curtis Stone will return home to open his first Australian restaurant as part of new Waldorf Astoria Sydney hotel.

After decades based in the US - and with e restaurant in Mexico - Stone will bring his culinary vision to Australia's first hotel under the luxury hotel brand.

Melbourne-born Stone will lead the way as the hotel will feature two original dining experiences. It will open in 2027 at One Circular Quay, and will be the first Waldorf Astoria hotel in Australia.

Waldorf Astoria Sydney is currently under construction and will be owned and developed by Perth-based developers Fiveight.

“Coming to Australia to create something of this scale is incredibly meaningful for me," Stone said.

"These dining experiences are deeply personal projects, inspired by the producers, seasons, and hospitality culture I grew up with.

”“To partner with Waldorf Astoria Sydney and bring these ideas to life overlooking one of the world’s most spectacular harbours is both an honour and a milestone in my career.”

Marlene Poynder, general manager of Waldorf Astoria Sydney, (pictured above on the 25th floor of the hotel with Stone) said: “Waldorf Astoria Sydney represents a defining moment as we introduce the brand to Australia.

"To work with a chef of Curtis’ calibre makes this especially meaningful. 

"Together, we're creating a destination where exceptional hospitality, world-class dining, and perhaps one of the world's most remarkable harbourfront settings come together to deliver an unforgettable guest experience."

* Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is Hilton’s luxury brand of hotels with a legacy that dates back more than a century to Waldorf Astoria New York, the first hotel to offer 24-hour room service.

A winter wine escape on Melbourne's doorstep

Fancy a winter wine escape just a short drive from the Melbourne CBD or airport? 

Marnong Estate offers rolling vineyards, long lunches, glasses of good red and the chance of a chilled night or two away from home. 

Locates in the Sunbury region just 35 minutes from the CBD (and 15 minutes from Tullamarine airport, the lifestyle destination offers Italian dining and boutique accommodation with sweeping views of the Macedon Ranges. 

It's a special spot. 

Wine experiences begin at the cellar door, where guests can build their own tasting experience with a selection of five Marnong Estate wines, or explore more structured flights such as a pinot noir tasting.

Experiences can be enhanced with optional cheese and charcuterie boards, or visitors can also opt for a casual picnic on the lawns of the estate with a bottle and grazing box. Try the 2024 Single Vineyard Montepulciano, an excellent drop. 

La Vètta offers Italian dining that has been recognised with a Chef’s Hat by The Age Good Food Guide and the winter menu leans into seasonal dishes designed for slow dining that can be enjoyed with a glass of estate wine.

For something more casual, Cucina 3064 is a family-friendly Italian eatery offering comfort classics such as lasagna, while Italian street kitchen Caffè Vista, offers al fresco eats perfect for a sunny winter afternoon. Think pizza and a glass of bubbles.

For a serious weekend escape, Marnong Estate offers boutique on-site accommodation overlooking the vineyards. The property includes architecturally designed cabins with studio or one-bedroom suites, as well as a beautifully restored 1840’s homestead for groups getaways.

Visitors can also meet the estate’s resident camels and llamas at the on-site petting zoo, enjoy live music, markets and seasonal events. 

Check out the website for the latest updates.

Respected New Zealand wine producer dies

Actor and vigneron Sam Neill has died, his family has confirmed.

“It is with immense sadness that the whanua (family) of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday 13th July, in Sydney, Australia,” they posted on social media.

Northern Ireland-born, New Zealand-based Neill, the star of multiple films including My Brilliant Career and Jurassic Park, was 78.

“The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free. They would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their incredible care,” the family statement said.

“More details will be shared later, but for now, on behalf of the family, we ask that you respect their privacy as they navigate this immeasurable loss.”

Neill was diagnosed with blood cancer in March 2022, but recovered.

 

Neill was highly respected in the wine industry, having owned and operated his own pinot noir-focused vineyard Two Paddocks in Central Otago for over three decades.

“We started in 1993 with modest ambitions and first planted five acres of pinot noir at our original little vineyard at Gibbston, Central Otago in the deep south of New Zealand,” Neill said on the winery website, which makes no mention of his career as actor. He was serious about wine. 

“I wanted to produce a good pinot noir that would, at the very least, be enjoyed by my family and friends,” he said.

Two Paddocks now consists of four small certified organic vineyards and produces between 3,000-5,000 cases depending on the vintage.

Australia edges towards the 21st century

Australia is finally entering the 21st century when it comes to entry formalities.

Filling out paper forms like the one above will soon be a thing of the past for millions of travellers to Australia as the Government rolls out digital passenger cards following a successful trial.

It will provide $56.1 million over four years for traveller modernisation at airports across Australia.

In a collaborative partnership with the Australian Border Force, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Qantas, the Australia Travel Declaration pilot program has delivered a digital alternative to the paper incoming passenger card.

Since the pilot commenced in October 2024, more than 450,000 passengers on eligible inbound Qantas flights into Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne have trialled the Australia Travel Declaration, with anecdotal evidence proving the trial has been a significant success.

This new pilot, in partnership with Qantas will continue to be introduced to other capital cities including Perth and Adelaide, before the end of 2026.

The Australia Travel Declaration will then be rolled out to all international airports and seaports in a phased approach over the next 12 to 18 months, initially accessible via a webform option, with an aim to continue to collaborate with industry to co-design in-app capabilities.

The broader rollout of the Australia Travel Declaration will streamline facilitation and reduce manual processes for passengers, enable digital collection of information ahead of time and increase data quality for risk assessments, allow for rapid updates and management of global risks and events, such as biosecurity outbreaks, and meet passenger expectations for a biometric-enabled, seamless digital border experience.

"Making arrivals simpler and quicker means visitors can spend less time filling out forms and more time enjoying everything Australia has to offer," says Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator Don Farrell.

"This is a win for tourists and a win for our tourism operators, helping make Australia an even easier and more welcoming place to visit."


Major travel hubs like the 29 Schengen Area countries, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Thailand have largely replaced paper arrival cards with direct passport scans, digital travel authorizations, or online systems


It is a belated change. Major travel hubs like the 29 Schengen countries in Europe, the United States, Canada, the UK, Singapore, and Thailand have already largely replaced paper arrival cards with direct passport scans, digital travel authorizations, or online systems.

Yelland & Papps: Letting the vineyard do the talking

Following a surprise visit to Glenside's notorious Z Ward, where the South Australian National Trust was holding a wine fair in the spooky cells of the former mental asylum, guest contributor Roderick Eime met with Susan Yelland of boutique Barossa winemakers Yelland & Papps, where the pair were showcasing some of their delicious reds and whites. 

He asked Susan to highlight a couple of her favourite vintages, to which she said the philosophy behind Yelland & Papps wines is to let the vineyard speak for itself.

Their single-vineyard Stonewell Shiraz is deliberately crafted as a brighter, more expressive interpretation of Barossa shiraz. 

"We're probably trying to make a more expressive, fruit-driven, easier-drinking style of shiraz from the Barossa."

Whole-bunch fermentation builds fragrance and texture, while the use of only seasoned oak avoids masking the fruit, resulting in a lighter, more aromatic and approachable style that showcases the vineyard rather than the winemaking.

The winery's passion for Rhône varieties is equally evident in its grenache. 

"Grenache, we love grenache. We are very focused on Rhône-style varietals."

Sourced from a pristine 60-year-old vineyard on the sandy soils of Vine Vale, the fruit is harvested in two stages. 

The earlier pick contributes lifted aromatics and delicate Turkish Delight notes, while the later harvest brings structure, tannin and depth across the palate. Together they create a balanced, layered wine that reflects both the character of the old vines and the Barossa landscape.

Rather than chasing mass-market distribution, Yelland & Papps focuses on independent wine merchants and quality restaurants, where they believe wines with authenticity and a strong sense of place are most appreciated.

Bicknell exits Oakridge after 24 1/2 years

David Bicknell, one of Australia's finest and most influential winemakers, has been cut lose by Endeavour Group, owners of Yarra Valley winery Oakridge.

Bicknell, who has headed operations at Oakridge for almost a quarter of a century, announced the split on social media. 

He is a chardonnay maestro and an inspiration to many in the wine industry. 

"Well, that’s it," Bicknell wrote. "After nearly 24 and a half years, my time Oakridge Wines has come to an end.

"It’s been an amazing ride, taking what was broken winery to the top of the industry with an unwavering commitment to quality and plenty of hard graft. Some really good times with some really good people.

"They say you never know you’re going to get boned until you do. And so it is. Thankfully, I leave a highly trained, capable and talented team for the next piece of history. Your support for them would mean a lot to me."

Bicknell was Gourmet Traveller Winemaker of the Year (2017), is a past Dux of the Len Evans Tutorial (2005) and co-founder of the Victorian Pinot Noir Workshop (2002).

He is a senior wine show judge with 20 years of experience across both regional, capital city shows and was the Chairman of Judges for the National Wine show of Australia from 2019 to 2023.

After completing winemaking studies at Roseworthy College in 1993, Bicknell joined De Bortoli Wines in the Yarra.

After a 10-year tenure, which included added winemaking stints in Burgundy (Louis Latour), Alsace (Paul Blanck) and Beaujolais (Chateau Bluizard), he took over at Oakridge Wines in 2002, establishing the producer among Australia's best.

Oakridge was named the number one winery in Australia by both the Halliday Wine Companion and  Real Review in 2023.

He and partner Nicky Harris have operated side project Bicknell FC since 2011.

Anantara celebrates 25 years with culinary experiences

 

The Anantara Hotels & Resorts group is marking 25 years with a selection of signature culinary experiences. 

The options range from Sri Lanka’s spice trails to the rice fields of Vietnam. 

The feasts will celebrate the quarter of a century since the brand was founded in Thailand as the experiential luxury brand of Minor Hotels. 

Across three Asian destinations – Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam – the brand responds to what the Minor Hotels Travel Trends Report 2026 confirms: food is the primary gateway to culture for most travellers.

At Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort on the south coast of Sri Lanka, Mama’s Kitchen explores local culinary secrets and village cooking culture with the resort’s local mama. 

Guests participate in the preparation, hand-grinding spices and stewing slow-cooked curries, in the kamatha kitchen situated in the resort’s paddy field, learning the role each ingredient plays and the stories that accompany them.

At sister property Anantara Kalutara Resort, guests partner with the resort’s culinary team for the '25 Spices Table', an exploration of 25 indigenous herbs and spices, each used in the preparation of traditional local curries and each with an intriguing history. 

At Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, executive chef Punn Akkawin teaches guests how to create Thai dishes full of colour and flavour. The experience begins with a morning market visit to select the fresh produce and aromatics that will define the meal. Guests return to The Spice Market, a Bangkok institution with more than 40 years of history in the Thai capital, to prepare three dishes under the chef’s guidance to enjoy for lunch.

In Vietnam, rice is central to culture. Anantara Quy Nhon Villas takes guests into the countryside to meet the families who keep centuries-old traditions alive. 

The first stop is a family where rice paper making is still practised by hand. Here, guests can learn each delicate step of the process, demonstrated and shared. This continues with a visit to a second family for a tasting of traditional rice wine. The experience closes back at the resort, where guests create their own rice wine cocktails while overlooking the ocean.

The route between Quy Nhon and Hoi An is an experience in its own right. The Vietage by Anantara train connects the two destinations in style, with locally sourced provisions on board, such as strawberries from Đà Lạt, regional teas and locally produced gins that reflect the landscape en route.

At Anantara Hoi An Resort, the Taste of Hoi An street food experience carries the narrative forward through the dishes that define the town.

Anantara’s signature anniversary experiences, including those featured above, are available across the brand’s portfolio throughout 2026. Each is specific to its destination. 

Explore the full collection at anantara.com/en/25th-anniversary-experiences

Wok on: Devonport kitchen spices up winter

It can be seriously cold in Tasmania over winter - but one Devonport eatery is heating things up with its hot wok dishes. 

Mr Good Guy is warming up the north-west coast by championing the wok as the ultimate cold-weather kitchen remedy until the end of August. 

High heat, bold scents and sizzling sauces from chef Muhammad (Momo) Fadly aim to lock in the flavour and warmth with different wok dishes rotating weekly throughout the season. 

The restaurant’s Winter Wok menu features dishes including fragrant Phad Kra Pa Moo, comforting La Na, wok-flamed Bò Lúc Lắc and fiery Mie Aceh. 

The Winter Wok dishes sit alongside Mr Good Guy’s signature favourites of pork belly bao, hawker-style plates designed for sharing, and the restaurant’s take on classics like sweet and sour pork.  

Located on Devonport’s waterfront inside Novotel Devonport, Mr Good Guy has been serving south-east Asian inspired food and cocktails since opening in 2022. 

Phad Kra Pao Moo is wok-tossed pork with Thai holy basil, garlic and chilli, finished in a fragrant oyster-soy glaze, while Lad Na, also from Thailand, stars wide rice noodles layered with meat and Chinese broccoli in a savoury gravy. 

Bò Lúc Lắc, translated as “Shaking Beef”, is a Vietnamese dish with wok-flamed beef cubes tossed with garlic and cracked pepper, finished with fresh herbs and a lime dipping sauce, while Mie Aceh is spicy Acehnese noodles tossed with prawns and slow-cooked beef, infused with aromatic spices, lifted with fresh lime and crispy shallots. 

* Novotel Devonport is Devonport's premium 4-star hotel in the heart of the city. See https://mrgoodguy.com.au/whatson/winter-wok-spice-up-your-off-season/

Accor banking on Vietnam destinations

Leading global hotel operator Accor is very keen on the future of tourism in Vietnam. 

Accor and Sun Group, one of Vietnam's leading real estate and tourism developers, have strengthened a long-standing partnership with the signing of a strategic portfolio deal that will see the development of more than 5,300 rooms over the next five years.

Located in key destinations, including Phu Quoc and Danang, the new properties include hotels, resorts and serviced residences. 

Several Accor brands will also be introduced to the Vietnam market for the very first time including Sofitel Serviced Residences, Swissôtel Living and TRIBE as well as Ennismore's fashion-driven lifestyle brand SO/. 

The expanded partnership will also further strengthen the presence of established brands such as MGallery, Grand Mercure and ibis Styles.

Sébastien Bazin, Accor chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said: “Vietnam has emerged as one of Asia's most dynamic destinations, and this milestone agreement reflects both the strength of our partnership with Sun Group and our shared ambition to shape the long-term evolution of Vietnam's tourism sector. 

“We remain focused on expanding our network in destinations that offer travellers more meaningful ways to connect with the culture and natural beauty of the country. These developments will bring a diverse mix of brands and experiences to market, creating new opportunities for tourism and contributing to Vietnam's continued growth on the global stage."

Dang Minh Truong, chairman of the Board of Directors, Sun Group, was equally optimistic, saying: “Sun Group has been committed to creating world-class destinations that celebrate Vietnam's identity and unlock the tourism potential of remarkable places across the country. 

“This landmark agreement with Accor marks an important step in that journey. By bringing Accor's diverse hospitality ecosystems and new experiences to Vietnam, we are not only elevating hospitality standards but also enhancing the attractiveness and competitiveness of our destinations, generating economic opportunities, and contributing to the sustainable growth of Vietnam's tourism industry."

The first phase of the portfolio includes Bana Hills Hotel Danang - MGallery Collection; Ruby Beach Hotel - MGallery Collection, SO/ Phu Quoc Ruby Beach, Grand Mercure Phu Quoc Ruby Beach, TRIBE Hon Thom Phu Quoc and ibis Styles Hon Thom Phu Quoc. 

Leading California wine regions at risk

Global warming and increasing wildfire risk threaten viability of elite wine-growing regions in California - but others may boom, a new report says. 

Mendocino and Monterey could become increasingly favourable for premium vintages under shifting climate patterns, while Napa and Sonoma may face increased pressure in grape cultivation. 

The US is the fourth-largest wine-producing country by output volume, and approximately 80% of its production occurs in California. 

Since the 19th century, California’s premier wine-growing regions have been the Napa Valley and Sonoma County, thanks to their favourable microclimates. 

But grape yield and quality are very sensitive to the local environment, which means that the climate crisis could shake up California’s wine industry. 

The new study shows that established regions including Napa and Sonoma could struggle to sustain their wine production under severe climate change. Others, like northern and coastal California, could become new wine-growing powerhouses.

“Our findings reveal that the outlook for Mendocino and Monterey is uniquely promising because of a dual trend: they are projected to experience both increasing climatic suitability for wine-growing and a decrease in extreme fire-weather days,” said Dr Yusuke Hiraga, an assistant professor at Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan, and author of the study in Frontiers in Climate. 

“This combination makes these areas stand out as comparatively favourable expansion zones, distinct from many other regions with either rising suitability alongside increased wildfire weather or declining suitability

Together with Takuya Matsumoto, a masters student at Tohoku University, Hiraga modeled California’s current and future climatic suitability for wine grape cultivation. 

They focused on 379 wine-growing locations listed in the California Wine Institute, predominantly in the North Coast region and across the Central Coast.

To forecast climate change, the authors mapped projections from global climate models onto a 4km-by-4km grid across the mainland US. 

They also considered alternative carbon emission scenarios. 

The authors likewise modelled the shifting weather conditions linked to wildfire risk and expected severity within each cell. 

The results showed that the suitability of currently important wine-growing regions, like Napa, Sonoma, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara, is likely to decline strongly under severe climate change. 

In contrast, suitability was predicted to increase greatly in Mendocino, Monterey, and in central to southern coastal areas. 

“While our study highlights long-term shifts in climatic and fire-weather suitability through the end of the century, it does not attempt to predict a specific timeline for when emerging areas will surpass currently established regions in wine-growing potential,” Hiraga said. 

“Such a precise forecast is complex, as the future of viticulture is shaped not only by climate change and wildfire weather but also by a wide array of anthropogenic factors.”

For more info, here is the original research  article: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/climate/articles/10.3389/fclim.2026.1838268/full

Share some Sydney stories over a beer or two

 

One of Sydney's oldest and most storied pubs, Customs House Bar, is inviting both locals and visitors to raise a glass to history with the launch of Taps & Tales: Stories Brewed Since 1846, an immersive beer tasting experience celebrating nearly 180 years of hospitality at Macquarie Place.

Running every Wednesday (11.15am) and Saturday (2.15pm), Taps & Tales is a guided 30-minute tasting and storytelling experience, open to Marriott Bonvoy members, with guests able to join for free to participate.

Set in the heart of Circular Quay, close to the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the venue has welcomed guests since 1846. 

Originally the Customs House Hotel before evolving into what is now known as Customs House Bar, one of the city's most iconic hospitality destinations, Taps & Tales brings this history to life through a curated blend of beer tasting and storytelling.

Taps & Tales is promoted as offering guests a journey from the heritage of Macquarie Place, home to relics from the First Fleet and Sydney's first street lamp. 

From sailors and customs officers to city workers and legendary figures such as Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, whose aviation ambitions are "rumoured" to have been planned over a pint within these very walls, every sip comes with a story.

The experience also explores the venue's preserved heritage features, including its heritage‑listed marble bar and striking Victorian Italianate façade, while enjoying a guided tasting of the signature CHB Lager, crafted to reflect the bar's history and character.

“Taps & Tales was created to offer something truly distinctive - an experience where guests don't just enjoy great beer but connect with the stories that have shaped this venue for generations,” said Roman Kristek, director of food and beverage at Sydney Harbour Marriott.

“It's a celebration of Sydney's heritage in a way that feels authentic, engaging and distinctly local."

Bookings are available at customshousebar.com.au

Hobart’s Mona to open Bangkok offshoot

The Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) in Hobart, Tasmania, and Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC) in Bangkok, Thailand, have announced they are working together to develop MONA Bangkok, a major new art destination on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff joined Mona founder David Walsh, artist and curator Kirsha Kaechele, DarkLab CEO and creative director Leigh Carmichael and Mona executives in Bangkok for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with AWC, represented by Chief Executive Officer and President Wallapa Traisorat, and Chief Commercial Business Officer Michael Hariz.

The signing was also attended by Australian Ambassador-Designate to Thailand Pablo Kang, Thai Minister of Culture Sabeeda Thaised, Governor of Bangkok Chadchart Sittipunt and Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand Thapanee Kiatphaibool.

The MOU outlines the shared vision for MONA Bangkok, which will bring together Mona’s extensive experience creating internationally acclaimed art, music and cultural destinations with AWC’s record of landmark developments in Thailand.

David Walsh, Mona’s founder, said: "Having spent most of the last 25 years studying how museums work, AWC has presented us with a remarkable opportunity to take what we’ve learned to one of the great tourist centres of the world."

Since opening in Hobart in 2011, Mona has been visited by over 5.2 million people. It has helped change visitors’ perception of Tasmania and turn Hobart into an international cultural destination, drawing audiences from across Australia and around the world through its idiosyncratic approach to exhibitions, festivals, architecture, and hospitality.

The MONA Bangkok project will be led on Mona’s side by Carmichael under the direction of Walsh, with assistance from a project team of skilled creatives.

Carmichael has worked with Walsh for over 20 years. Together they established the Mona brand, the Dark Mofo festival, and cultural precinct In The Hanging Garden.

“MONA Bangkok will take the creative spirit of Mona into a new context,” Carmichael said. “Like the museum in Hobart, it will be unconventional and unique, and will present work by leading international artists, while also creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue with Thai artists, audiences and cultural traditions.

“The theme of light will be explored both as a physical phenomenon and as a metaphor. Light has long been a source of fascination, reflection and hope across cultures, and it feels especially resonant in Bangkok, with its rich cultural life and traditions. I’m looking forward to listening, learning and seeing where this project leads as it develops.

“We look forward to working with AWC on this ambitious project, and to meeting with Thai artists, designers and makers as we begin the journey.

“Bangkok is already home to important contemporary art events and institutions including the Bangkok Art Biennale, MOCA Bangkok and the newly opened Dib Bangkok. MONA Bangkok is intended to build on this momentum, helping strengthen the city’s position as a global art destination.”

Traisorat said: "At AWC, Building a Better Future is at the heart of everything we do. This collaboration with Mona reflects the power of partnerships to create lasting cultural and economic value. 

"Together, we are building more than a new destination - we are creating a bridge between Thailand and Australia through a shared vision, a passion for art, a shared commitment to sustainable tourism and a belief in the power of culture to connect people.

“We are excited to welcome Mona to Bangkok to create a world-class cultural landmark that inspires creativity, fosters meaningful artist communities, and encourages more people to discover new experiences. By bringing together art, innovation and hospitality, MONA Bangkok will strengthen the creative industry and enhance Thailand as the leading global sustainable destination.”

Further details on the project will be announced in due course.

Image: An early rendering of MONA Bangkok. Courtesy Mona, AWC and Six Degrees Architects.

Coonawarra wine icons celebrate milestone

One of Coonawarra's pioneering wine families is marking a major milestone with Bowen Estate celebrating 50 vintages.

 
Started by Doug and Joy Bowen in 1972 with the first vintage in 1975, Bowen Estate is now run by their daughter Emma.  

This month, Bowen Estate releases its landmark half century vintage, showcasing the commitment of a family whose name has become synonymous with classic Coonawarra cabernet sauvignon.

Family owned and operated since its foundation, Bowen Estate has remained true to its philosophy of crafting wines that express the unique character of Coonawarra's celebrated terra rossa soils.

“I had lots of energy and passion to start my own winery experience," Doug Bowen recalls. 

"I never wanted to work for anyone else, simply wanted to put all my efforts into my own project.

“To make the best wine you have to have the best grapes. End of story.

“With Emma in the winery I am immensely proud of what she is doing and has achieved.

“I have stepped back from the winery largely over the past few vintages and she has accepted the new responsibility well. Fortunately, we both share the same philosophy and commitment to our style.”

Bowen Estate makes wines from only three grape varieties: cabernet sauvignon, shiraz and chardonnay, and has a loyal following among collectors, trade and consumers alike, with its wines recognised for their balance and cellar worthiness. 

“Bowen Estate has never just been where I work - it's where I grew up," says Emma Bowen. "Vintage was part of our family life, and some of my fondest memories are of watching my parents in the winery and vineyard.

“To now stand beside Dad as we celebrate and release our 50th vintage is incredibly humbling. It represents everything my parents have built over the past five decades, and I'm honoured to help carry that legacy forward."

See https://bowenestate.com.au/

Image: Doug and Emma Bowen 

Tourism continues to boom in Europe

Travel is booming in Europe despite headwinds including rising prices, geopolitical tensions, airport delays and climate concerns. 

The latest European Travel Commission (ETC) Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel shows 81% of Europeans intended to travel between June and November 2026 - up four percentage points from the same period last year.

The findings underline the resilience of travel demand while highlighting a growing focus on safety, value for money and climate resilience when choosing destinations.

The survey also shows that Europeans continue to favour multiple vacations, with 55% planning at least two trips over the next six months. Nearly two-thirds (64%) expected to travel within Europe, reinforcing the region’s position as the preferred destination for its own residents.

Travel enthusiasm has strengthened across nearly every age group, reaching its highest level among travellers aged 45 to 54, where 86% are planning a trip.

Southern and Mediterranean Europe remained the continent’s most sought-after vacation region, attracting 61% of intended travellers, four percentage points higher than a year ago.

Spain tops the list of preferred destinations, chosen by 14% of respondents, followed by Italy (12%), France (8%) and Greece (7%). The enduring appeal of sunshine, beaches, cultural attractions and city breaks continues to drive demand for these destinations.

The report also points to a growing desire for more authentic and less crowded experiences.

While interest in Europe’s iconic tourist destinations has edged up to 48%, a slight majority of travellers (52%) now say they prefer exploring lesser-known locations or destinations off the traditional tourist trail.

Crowding is also becoming a more significant consideration with 11% of respondents say avoiding busy destinations. 

One in five Europeans (20%) cite safety as their top consideration, ahead of pleasant weather (15%) and attractive travel deals (14%).

Financial pressures continue to weigh on travellers’ minds, even though demand remains robust. Rising travel costs are now the biggest concern for 22% of respondents, while 17% are worried about their personal financial situation.

Geopolitical instability is also having a greater impact on travel planning than in previous years. Concerns related to the conflict in the Middle East have doubled over the past year, rising from 7% to 14%, while 11% of Europeans remain concerned about the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Despite higher fuel prices and increasing airfare costs, flying remains the preferred mode of transportation, with 53% planning to travel by air.

Commenting on the findings, Miguel Sanz, president of the ETC, said Europeans continue to place a high value on travel despite an increasingly complex global environment.

Image: Madrid

Discover Paris' own unique wine-inspired festival

For close to 100 years, the 18th Arrondissement of Paris has celebrated its grape harvest festival. 

Centered on the historic district of Montmartre, overlooking the city and blessed with its own micro vineyard, the Fête des Vendanges will this year run from October 7-11. 

The 93rd edition has the theme "The 18th Arrondissement Leads the Beat".

Drawing nearly 1.5 million visitors annually, the festival is the third-largest event organized by the City of Paris. 

For five days, the entire 18th arrondissement is transformed into a huge open-air stage where music, 

gastronomy, heritage, and community celebration come together.

Concerts, choirs, dances, performances, musical parades, participatory events, and neighborhood
festivities will fill the arrondissement's streets, squares, and iconic venues.

The festival's Taste Trail will bring together producers, winemakers from Chablis,and Auxerre, and artisans sharing their products, craftsmanship, and stories at the foot of the Sacré-Cœur.

The Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre is promoted as being committed to the values that define it: solidarity, openness, inclusion, and the sharing of knowledge and traditions.

The 2026 edition will also continue its commitment to environmental sustainability through initiatives promoting responsible food practices, waste reduction, sustainable mobility, short supply chains, and the promotion of local expertise.

See Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre : du 7 au 11 octobre 2026

Images: Erwan-Floch & Mathilde Gardel

How about a winter wellness package by the sea?

There is a new winter wellness package on offer at one of Sydney's hippest hotels. 

The packages are available exclusively at InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach from July 10-September 30, subject to availability. 

These deals combine luxury suite accommodation, Club InterContinental access and a  thermal experience at Èliva Spa, just steps from Coogee Beach.

Guests are promised "sweeping ocean views and the chance to spot migrating whales along the coastline before retreating to Èliva Spa to enjoy the facilities".

They can immerse themselves in magnesium mineral pools, infrared and salt saunas, cold plunge baths and a crystal steam room. 

From $700 per night, the package includes: overnight suite accommodation, Club InterContinental access for up to two guests, one 60-minute thermal facilities experience at Èliva Spa per guest, per stay, along with complimentary valet parking. 

For more info click HERE. 

Dark Lark is a seasonal Tasmanian treat

Winter in Tasmania is long, cold and dark.

It's the perfect time, then, for the sixth seasonal release of No. 166 Dark Lark 2026.

The limited-release whisky is housed in a matte black 700mL bottle - a dark, moody exterior that houses a Tasmanian single malt.

It's a bit late, to be honest, in that it is promoted as signalling "the arrival of winter and the ritual that comes with it". It's also a bit behind the Dark Mofo festival.

Crafted by master sistiller Chris Thomson and the Lark team, this year’s expression is promoted as "leaning into deep indulgence: sticky figs, dark chocolate-covered cherries and espresso gelato, lifted by lemon shortbread and soft honey."

It sounds delicious. And it is. Rich with treacle characteristics and very smooth on the finish. Hard to stick at one glass. 

No.166 Dark Lank 2026 is available from today via larkdistillery.com and Hobart venues. The RRP is $150.

Michelin ranks wine estates

Michelin ranks restaurants around the world - and charges regions handsomely for the privilege. 

It has also started rating hotels - posing questions about the qualifications and the experience of its un-named judges. 

And now the Michelin guides are going further into the rankings business with the launch of Michel Grape, a "new distinction spotlighting wine estates and producers across different regions of the world".

Michelin says: With this new distinction, we provide wine lovers with a trusted benchmark."

The ratings system, launched in Burgundy before rolling out worldwide, covers three classifications.

Three Michelin grapes will be awarded to exceptional producers. Whatever the vintage, wine lovers can turn to the estate’s creations with complete confidence.

Two Michelin grapes will signify excellent producers who stand out as exceptional within their peer group and region for both quality and consistency.

One Michelin grapes will recognise very good producers who craft wines of character and style, especially in the best vintages.

There were no real surprises when the top names were revealed.

Those earning Three Michelin Grapes were Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Leroy, Domaine d’Auvenay, Cécile Tremblay, Dugat-Py, Roumier, Coche-Dury, Jean-Marc & Thomas Bouley and Hubert Lamy.

When human interaction trounces AI

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the tourism landscape but one major travel company is still banking on human interaction.

AI is influencing everything from how guests discover destinations and build itineraries to how hospitality brands anticipate needs and create seamless experiences.

andBeyond chief marketing officer Nicole Robinson says that as technology becomes more embedded in the travel journey, the value of genuine human interaction will only increase.

While AI will efficiency, personalisation and convenience, Robinson says the true measure of luxury will move beyond what technology can deliver and towards how deeply a guest feels understood.

She says that for andBeyond, AI presents an opportunity to support hospitality teams behind the scenes, helping with everything from more intelligent itinerary planning and operational precision to creating greater continuity across a guest’s journey. 

But technology should enhance the human experience rather than replace it. 

“The guest should not feel the technology; they should feel the care it makes possible,” says Robinson.

“There is a difference between being targeted and being understood. 

"One feels automated. The other feels generous. Technology can help us gather information, but our people are what turn that information into meaning.”

* andBeyond is a luxury experiential travel company that specialises in high-end, sustainable safaris and tours in Africa, South America, and Asia.

Image: Benguerra Island's andBeyond staff with lanterns

Festival to celebrate Agatha Christie milestones

Fifty years after he death, thriller writer Agatha Christie remains a towering literary figure. 

The late author will again be celebrated at the 2026 Agatha Christie Festival, which will attract fans from all over the world to her home territory in Devon, England. 

The nine-day celebration in Torquay will also commemorate the 100th anniversary of The Murder of Roger Ackroyd and the 50th anniversary of the final Miss Marple novel Sleeping Murder. 

The festival will run from September 12-20 and will include a four-day Fringe Festival, featuring events at hidden locations linked to Christie. 

Highlights will include a journey on the Dartmouth Steam Railway, a riverboat cruise on the River Dart, and underground screenings at Kents Cavern. 

In collaboration with the British Red Cross, the festival will host "What Agatha Did in the Great War" at Torquay Town Hall, celebrating Christie's voluntary work during the war. 

“We have worked hard to create one of the biggest and most enjoyable festivals yet," says 

Matt Newbury, creative director of the festival. 

There were over 8,000 attendees from 30 countries for the 2025 event. 

See https://www.iacf-uk.org/

Passenger trains to link Finland with Sweden after four decades

Getting around Scandinavia is about to become a lot easier with the resumption of cross-border passenger trains between Finland and Sweden after a period of almost four decades. 

The return of regular cross-border rail services will mark a major milestone for regional connectivity across the Nordic region, Arctic Observer reported.

Finnish state railway operator VR has announced that passenger services between Oulu and Haparanda will begin on August 10, marking the first regular passenger rail connection between the two countries since 1988. 

The new route is expected to improve mobility, strengthen economic ties, and provide travellers with a sustainable alternative to air and road transport, local media reported.

The reopening reconnects Finland's railway network with Sweden's, allowing passengers to travel seamlessly from northern Finland into Sweden, with onward connections to Luleå, Boden, Stockholm, and the wider European rail network.

VR says the new cross-border service will operate every day, offering two departures in each direction daily: a total of 28 passenger services per week

VR has not yet announced official ticket prices for the new service.

Official pricing will be published once reservations open.

For Finnish travellers, the restored link also creates a practical all-rail route into Sweden and mainland Europe, reducing reliance on domestic flights for international travel.

Champagne readies for record early grape harvest

Winemakers in Champagne are predicting a record early harvest. 

Following an unusually early and heavily frost-damaged start to the season, followed by recent heatwave conditions, Champagne could be on course for the earliest start date for harvesting in its long history, trade news hub drinks business is reporting.

Region’s newspaper L’Union reported the feats and representatives from Champagne Canard-Duchêne and Louis Roederer said picking is predicted to begin on August 15 with some warmer sites possibly harvesting earier. 

Speaking to db, Roederer cellar master Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon said that the official start date is August 15, but “some places may start a few days before, such as Montgueux, which is an exceptionally sunny site.” 

Montgueux is a chalk hill located 10km west of Troyes in the Aube department, sometimes called the ‘Montrachet of Champagne’ for its unusually ripe Chardonnay.

Should picking begin on August 10 in Montgueux, that would mark the earliest harvesting on record in Champagne, with Lécaillon noting that some had started bringing in grapes as early as August13  in 2020, following an extremely hot summer – although the official start date that year was four days later.

The earliest official start to harvesting in Champagne on record is 2020, when picking began on August 17. 

Lécaillon said that the grapes were healthy, with bunches “forming well,” and, despite the hot dry conditions. 

Canard-Duchêne winemaker Cynthia Fossier said: "Today the vineyard is beautiful, but the temperature is too high.” 

How to enjoy Adelaide sights for free

The historic and booming South Australian capital is a destination that rewards leisurely exploration - and it can be done for free. 

Whether you are walking along the banks of the River Torrens or strolling around one of Adelaide’s many parks and squares, the city has a lot to offer.

There’s a beguiling mix of old, new and green, easily traversed because of the city’s grid system. Getting around is easy thanks to the city’s compact layout. Most of the main attractions in the CBD are within easy walking distance.

And if you don’t feel like walking there is an excellent public transport system including trains, trams and buses. The free Adelaide City Connector bus travels to many popular destinations and attractions.

Among them: Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Adelaide Festival Plaza, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Zoo, the Art Gallery of South Australia, the National Wine Centre, Rundle Mall and the temptations of Adelaide Central Market.

Trams run all the way to Glenelg Beach, while you can catch a bus to Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills.

Adelaide is full of wine bars and restaurants: Africola, Arkhe, Soi 38 and Madame Hanoi are all reliably good.

For nightlife, Peel Street and Leigh Street are home to plenty of bars and pubs.

My recent stay was at slick and modern Eos by SkyCity – part of the casino complex.

There are 120 well-appointed 120 rooms suites here; very comfortable. As a collab with Adelaide's art and design community, the complex has 900 commissioned artworks on display.

BODHI Spa at Eos, a heated outdoor swimming pool, spa pool and expansive leisure deck are all on site, and the breakfasts at ITL are excellent.

Wine lovers can check out Penfolds’ historic Magill Estate in the suburbs, or head to the Adelaide Hills, with several wineries and cellar doors within a few kilometres. 

Hahndorf, originally settled by Lutheran migrants from Prussia in 1839, is Australia's oldest German settlement.

The main street of Hahndorf is lined with elm and plane trees and many original brick and timber cottages remain intact. The town is dotted with restaurants, cafes and providores.

For those who have wined and dined enough, the National Motor Museum is at Birdwood, while Mount Lofty is home to the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens and the Mount Lofty Summit, which offers stunning views to Adelaide and beyond.

Check out www.skycityadelaide.com.au and www.cityofadelaide.com.au

Like the sound of a weekend of oysters and gin?

 

Like the sound of artisan gins paired with freshly shucked oysters? 

Never Never Distillery's OysterPalooza is coming up. 

From Friday, July 31 to Sunday, August 2, Never Never's McLaren Vale Distillery Door will host OysterPalooza, billed as "a flavour-filled celebration of South Australia's world-class oyster season".

It's the weekend before World Oyster Day on Wednesday, August 5.

Expect freshly shucked local oysters, a special OysterPalooza drinks menu, and the return of cult-favourite Shellies, frozen Oyster Shell Gin served in an actual oyster shell.

Friday night will feature a Boom Shuck-alaka party, while the days will showcase laidback Weekend Deck Sessions. 

Tickets include oysters, drinks, tastings and entertainment. 

The organisers promise live music, exclusive bottle offers and great vibes all weekend. 

Check out https://neverneverdistilling.com.au/ to book.

Airlines angered by European airport chaos

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European airlines are among those to have issued a letter to European Union Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen, warning that the rollout of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) is causing major operational disruption and threatening the smooth functioning of summer air travel.

While the aviation sector continues to support the objectives of the biometric border control system, industry leaders say its implementation is creating severe bottlenecks at external Schengen borders, resulting in excessive waiting times, flight disruptions and growing pressure on airports, airlines and border authorities.

According to the open letter, passengers are already experiencing waits of up to five hours at border control since the full implementation of the EES in April, news portal Travel Mole reports.

The delays are affecting millions of travellers, inconveniencing families, elderly passengers and those with reduced mobility, while airlines are reporting missed connections, delayed departures and mounting operational challenges for frontline staff.

The industry argues that these problems persist despite member states making use of temporary measures allowing border authorities to postpone biometric data collection until early September. 

Although intended to ease the transition, the flexibility has failed to eliminate long queues or prevent operational disruption.

With July and August expected to bring around 40 million more passengers through European airports than the previous two months, aviation organisations warn that the situation is likely to deteriorate rapidly unless additional action is taken.

The concerns extend beyond Europe’s largest hubs. Airports serving popular leisure destinations are also struggling to process arriving passengers efficiently, with travellers reportedly queuing outside terminal buildings while airlines face departures with passengers still waiting at immigration checkpoints.

Industry leaders also caution that prolonged border delays could damage Europe’s reputation as an attractive travel destination. 

They argue that reports of lengthy immigration queues are already discouraging some international visitors, potentially affecting tourism, air connectivity and the wider European economy.

The letter also challenges recent comments from the European Commission suggesting that long waiting times are primarily the result of airline scheduling and concentrated flight arrivals. 

Aviation stakeholders reject that explanation, noting that airline schedules are planned well in advance and that passenger demand patterns have long been predictable. They argue the EES rollout should have been designed to accommodate known traffic peaks rather than disrupt airport operations.

Amsterdam tells tourists: Pay up, or on your bike

Amsterdam is a small city with narrow thoroughfares and limited resources. 

Now the Dutch city is cracking down further on overtourism. 

Amsterdam authorities are planning to introduce new tourism measures which will make the city one of the toughest in Europe in managing tourism amid a growing hostility towards tourists, news hub Travel Mole reports.

 

Among the changes is a gradual increase in its tourist tax to 20% by the end of the decade, as city leaders seek to curb overtourism and improve the quality of life for residents.

The Dutch citg already charges one of the highest visitor taxes in Europe. Overnight visitors currently pay a tourist tax equivalent to 12% of their accommodation cost, while day visitors arriving by cruise ship pay a separate fee fixed at €15 per day.

Under proposals unveiled by the city’s new coalition government, the overnight tourist tax would rise to 16% next year before increasing by one percentage point annually until it reaches 20% in 2030.

City officials say the higher levy is designed to ensure visitors contribute more fairly to the costs associated with maintaining one of Europe’s most-visited destinations.

Amsterdam welcomed 9.5 millions guests last year. That makes tourism one of the city’s most important economic drivers but local authorities say the growing number of visitors has also placed mounting pressure on public spaces, municipal services, neighborhoods, and infrastructure.

According to the coalition agreement, tourism remains vital to the city’s economy, but the associated costs of managing large visitor numbers have become increasingly significant.

The proposed tax increase forms part of a much broader tourism management strategy designed to create what city leaders describe as a more balanced visitor economy.

Another proposal would see increases to Amsterdam’s entertainment levy, which currently applies to activities such as canal boat tours, canoe rentals, and other recreational services operating on the city’s famous waterways.

Tasmanian tourism project goes up in smoke

Things can move glacially in Tasmania - and sometimes they just don’t move at all.

Take a multi-millon dollar tourism project designed to boost visitation to the Huon Valley in the far south of the state following major bushfires in February 2019.

Seven years after those fires, with not one brick laid, proponent DarkLab announced that it will cease further work on the Transformer project at Ida Bay with activities to be wound up by the end of July.

Despite receiving approvals from Huon Valley Council and Tasmania Parks and Wildlife in 2023 and 2024, an increase in projected costs, particularly in relation to visitor service structures, has rendered the project untenable.

DarkLab CEO and creative director Leigh Carmichael said: “It is with a heavy heart that we make this announcement today. We have given the project every opportunity to succeed, but after seven years’ work we have made the decision not to proceed.

“We would like to thank the far south community for their support, and we are disappointed that we have been unable to finish what we began. It’s difficult to walk away from the unrealised potential.

“We would like to thank the Huon Valley Council, the State Government, and the Federal Government who have worked patiently with us throughout this process, along with the artist and many people who have worked on the project since its inception.

“Unfortunately, the environmental and economic landscape is very different from when we were first asked to look at this project back in 2019. The long approval process, Covid and rising construction costs have all worked against us this time.

“While we still believe a catalyst project is urgently needed to spark further tourism visitation and investment in the Huon Valley, the timing for this project is no longer right.

“We will now focus on working with the Office for the Arts to acquit the Federal Government grant and ensure the funds are returned in full. 

"DarkLab, with [Mona owner] David Walsh, will cover the costs incurred in attempting to realise the project.”

Transformer was to be a site-specific commission by American artist Doug Aitken, a pavilion with a reflective interior, creating a lens consisting of angles and facets, a kaleidoscope that interacted with the landscape over the changing seasons.
 

Virgin Australia offers flyers more flexibility

Don't you hate it when you arrive at their airport early and your carrier has two earlier flights to your destination. 

You either pay up to catch an earlier flight, or sit around for an hour or two until your scheduled flight departs. 

No more waiting if you are booked on an eligible fare with Australian carrier Virgin Australia. 

Virgin is the only Australian airline to offer eligible guests travelling on a domestic economy flex fare the ability to access Fly Ahead, enabling them to switch to an available earlier same-day flight through the Virgin Australia app, with no change fee or fare difference.

The new app feature offers a significant shift from traditional flexible fares, which typically require travellers to pay a change fee and fare difference when changing flights. 

Virgin Australia Fly Ahead can offer savings for frequent travellers, particularly those flying for business.

The value of that added flexibility is already clear, with data showing more than 44,000 Virgin Australia guests moved to earlier flights over the past 12 months, saving a combined 143,000 hours in airport dwell time. 

Expanding the Fly Ahead app feature, launched for high-tier Velocity Frequent Flyer members in May 2026, to domestic economy flex fare guests means more travellers can get on their way sooner. 

Virgin Australia group executive Libby Minogue says the expansion of Fly Ahead reflects the airline's commitment to listening to guests and delivering meaningful flexibility.

"At Virgin Australia, we listen closely to our guests, and one thing we hear consistently, particularly from our business travellers, is that they want more flexibility and control when plans change," Minogue says. 

"That's why we're proud to be the only Australian airline offering superior flexibility to our flex ticket holders, allowing them to switch to an available earlier same-day flight via the Virgin Australia app, without incurring a change fee or fare difference. 

"The change will help our guests get home sooner, make an earlier meeting or maximise their time."

For more info visit here.

Popular culinary festival returns to the Great Southern

One of Western Australia's most remote culinary festivals will return next year. 

Taste Great Southern will return to the Great Southern region from Thursday, March 4, to Sunday, March 7. 

 
Following a successful 2026 festival, Taste Great Southern will once again invite guests to explore the region's acclaimed wines, premium produce, extraordinary landscapes and vibrant hospitality scene through a curated program of events spanning Albany, Denmark, Mount Barker, Porongurup, Frankland River and surrounding communities.

Festival director Erin Molloy said the festival continues to strengthen the Great Southern's reputation as one of Australia's most compelling regional food and wine destinations.

"Taste Great Southern has become one of Western Australia's most distinctive regional food and wine festivals because it offers something truly authentic," she said.

"It brings together world-class chefs, winemakers, producers and storytellers in a way that could only happen in the Great Southern.

" We're excited to build on the momentum in 2027 and continue showcasing the incredible people, produce and places that make this region so special."

State Minister for Tourism and the Great Southern, Reece Whitby, said the Great Southern is one of Western Australia's most remarkable tourism destinations, and Taste Great Southern brings it to life through world-class food and wine experiences.

“Taste Great Southern's 2027 program builds on the festival's ongoing success, offering fresh experiences that celebrate the region's exceptional produce, passionate people and breathtaking landscapes," Whitby said. 

"Events like this play a vital role in driving visitation to WA's regional destinations, strengthening the Western Australian economy, supporting local jobs and businesses, and highlighting the State's visitor appeal.”

The full Taste Great Southern 2027 program and tickets will be released later this year.

See tastegreatsouthern.com.au 

Image: Ann and Tom

Meet a new name on the Yarra Valley wine scene: e'Stellar

There is a new name in the Yarra Valley wine firmament.  

e’Stellar is owned by members of one of Australia’s highest-profile wine families but will operate independently. 

Joe and Cathy Casella, of the Australian winemaking empire Casella Family Brands, began their Yarra journey in 2017 when they purchased Graeme Miller’s historic Dixons Creek site. 

In 2025, they added the neighboring Mandala vineyards, unifying the two properties into a single 40-hectare project named e’Stellar Estate. 

It is a stand alone personal project for the couple, managed completely separately from the corporate Casella Family Brands portfolio. 

The project builds on the legacy of the Henkell family, who first planted the celebrated Mandala site in 1980, and the neighbouring Dixons Creek Estate established by Jimmy Watson Trophy winner Graeme Miller. 

Steering the project is winemaker and GM Martin Siebert, whose background includes vintage work in Burgundy and two decades at top-tier Yarra Valley producers Yarra Yering, Coldstream Hills, and Tokar Estate. 

Siebert found a 15-year-old museum sparkling base, resting on lees, in storage, from the original Graeme Miller days, which has been disgorged and released as the limited e’Stellar Legacy Sparkling ($60). 

While reviewing old records, Siebert unearthed invoices indicating half of that parcel of sparkling wine was quietly resting on lees at the contract facility. Upon requesting a sample bottle to be disgorged for evaluation, Siebert and the team realized they were sitting on a vinous treasure,

There are 11 wines included in the first release, divided across two core tiers ($32 and $45): the e’ Range ($32): chardonnay, pinot noir, rosé, and cabernet syrah and e’Stellar Range ($45): chardonnay, pinot noir, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, blanc de blancs, and sparkling rosé NV. 

A new cellar door by Q+Co Design Studio is currently under construction for a launch in the coming months, the estate's commercial footprint is already anchored by the property's existing dining establishment: DiVino Ristorante.

Operating under the new e’Stellar banner, the Italian pavilion has called this site home for seven years and welcomes guests from Wednesday through Sunday for lunch and Friday and Saturday evenings for dinner.

The debut 2025 e’Stellar Estate wines are now available online, before the cellar door experiences open to the public in the coming months.

More info at https://www.estellarestate.com.au/.

Hotel chains are deep diving into customers' motivations

Guests are being judged, and their motivations analysed, by major hotel chains. 

New research by the Luxury Group by Marriott International challenges common assumptions about Gen Z travellers, uncovering diverse motivations and definitions of luxury travel.

As Gen Z rises as a defining force in luxury travel, one long-held assumption no longer holds: there is no single Gen Z traveller.

A new report from the Luxury Group by Marriott International in Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC), reveals a generation comprising four distinct luxury mindsets, with each redefining luxury on their own terms, from cultural immersion and personal wellbeing to digital disconnection and heritage-driven exploration.

Drawing on insights from 2,800 affluent travellers across eight Asia Pacific markets, including 1,200 Gen Z respondents aged 18 to 29, the report signals a decisive shift. 

Luxury travel is no longer anchored by demographic factors, but increasingly shaped by intention, identity, and personal meaning.

"Luxury today is no longer defined by a singular standard. It is deeply personal," said Oriol Montal, regional vice president of luxury. 

"Our research reveals that affluent Gen Z travellers are not just participating in luxury travel. They are reshaping it, driven by a desire for meaning, wellbeing, and authentic connection. As the definition of luxury continues to fragment and evolve, understanding these emerging perspectives will be critical for shaping the next generation of travel experiences."

The research shows today’s affluent Gen Z travellers are no longer passive participants. Rather, they are deliberate architects of their journeys. More than half fund their own trips, while nearly half plan every aspect of their journeys themselves. 

Immediate family remains their preferred travel companions (51%), while small-group travel has grown by 17%, signalling a shift toward more intimate, shared experiences.

They also bring sophisticated expectations to every journey. Cultural immersion and engagement with local communities influence destination choice for 87% of respondents, while culinary discovery (86%), proximity to nature (86%), and wellness (85%) are key priorities shaping travel decisions.

At the same time, Gen Z travellers expect luxury to be seamless. Time inefficiencies and communication gaps are among their biggest frustrations. 

Technology, meanwhile, is playing an increasingly important role in trip planning, with 23% already using AI tools for travel inspiration and planning.

The report identifies four Gen Z archetypes whose definitions of luxury diverge significantly: 1) The Connoisseur Traditionalist (34%), 2) The Future Proofer (30%), 3) The Quiet Luxurist (20%), and 4) The Cultural Reclaimer (16%). 

If you'd like to know more, the full report is available to download.