So you fancy a serious weekend session by the beach?

Fancy a serious session overlooking one of the most famous beaches in the world?

September will see the return of North Bondi Fish’s Saturday and Sunday Bottomless Brunches, with a refreshed offering following a winter hiatus.

From 12pm each weekend day, guests can settle in for a long, leisurely brunch in the sun overlooking iconic Bondi Beach, with a soundtrack by DJs throughout the afternoon.



Two set menu options ($95pp/$119pp) feature NBF favourites including ceviche tostadas, cured ocean trout, sesame prawn toast and grilled lamb skewers.

Add to that free-flow prosecco, wine and beer to slake the most serious thirsts.

Those looking to make a full afternoon of it can add freshly shucked oysters, fish tacos or cocktail jugs to the mix.

Bookings HERE.

Coopers goes dark for its new Vintage Ale

Australia’s largest independent brewery, Coopers, has gone for innovation and given a nod to its craft beer heritage in the hop selection for its annual Vintage Ale.

Each year, the Coopers brewing team creates a unique, premium-quality craft-style beer with a distinctive blend of hops, a release which is awaited by beer lovers around the country.

The 2026 Vintage Ale features an experimental hop - HBC-1134 - delivering floral, citrus and herbal characters, alongside the US hop Krush, with distinct aromas of navel orange, supported by peach, berries, ripe mango, guava and lychee.

The result is promised to be "a smooth and creamy palate featuring fruit-forward flavours of mango, passionfruit and stone fruit which balances the woody notes and malty flavour for which Vintage Ale is renowned".

Coopers managing director Michael Shearer said 2026 Vintage Ale continues the Adelaide brewery's tradition of releasing a full-bodied, extra-strong seasonal ale that is perfectly suited to cold weather drinking.

“Vintage Ale has developed a legion of fans over the decades and we expect this year’s release to be well received by loyal Coopers drinkers,” he said.

“Full of rich and complex flavours, the 2026 brew is a special strong, dark ale which drinks exceptionally well and will pair excellently with hearty winter meals.

“While it’s ready to enjoy right away, Vintage Ale can also be cellared to allow its malty characters to develop and patience is certainly rewarded for those who are willing to wait.

“As with all vintages, Coopers 2026 Vintage Ale is a limited release and expected to be highly sought after, so we encourage fans to secure their carton early.”

This year’s release marks the 26th in Coopers Brewery’s Vintage Ale series since its inception in 1998.

With an ABV of 7.5%, Coopers 2026 Vintage Ale will be available in 50-litre kegs and 355ml bottles from August.

The launch will also be marked with a series of Vintage Ale events held across the country in August and September. 

The verdict: It’s a dark, malty, yeasty beastie. 

Star wineries sign up for Hunter festival

Brokenwood, First Creek Wines, Hungerford Hill, Margan and Bimbadgen are among the wine producers to have signed up for the 2026 Hunter Valley Wine & Beer Festival.

Offering a day of local food, wines, brews, spirits and entertainment, the event is pencilled in for Saturday, July 11, at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley in Lovedale.

Festival goers will be able to taste wines from over 20 local producers also including Allandale, Petersons Family Wines, Gartelmann Wines and Gundog Estate.

Brewers and distillers including Steinbok, Pants Off, Phoenix Distillery, Wooden Axe, Kissofire Hunter Valley Liqueurs, CInCin Beverages, and Sydney Brewery.

Accompanying the drink options will be a range of dishes, including pizza, paella, curry, and artisan foods from local providers such as Goose on the Loose and Hunter Belle Dairy Co.

Masterclasses will be available as add-ons to general tickets. These will include a Dumplings and Wine Pairing hosted by Latitude 32 Wines; Beer & Cider pairing with cheese & crackers hosted by Sydney Brewery & Hunter Belle; and an interactive cocktail masterclass showcasing Pants Off Distillery’s spirits.

Live entertainment will be provided throughout the day on the festival stage.

General Admission tickets are available for $30pp ($40pp on the day) through Universe (booking fees apply). Tickets include entry into the festival, first drink up to the value of $8, memorabilia wine glass, access to 45+ wineries, distilleries and craft breweries, gourmet food vendors, live music, and other festival activities.

Families are welcome, with children accompanying adults receiving complimentary entry to the festival (ticket required when booking with an adult). A Kids Activities Pass will be available on the day for $10 per child, providing access to train rides, a jumping castle, face painting and more.

Parking is available at Rydges Resort and local transport operator Sip & Trip will be offering (paid) transfers to and from the festival with pick-up points in Newcastle and East Maitland.

 
Making the festival a potential weekend away,three of the Hunter Valley’s top chefs will partner with local wineries to present the Beyond the Pour Dinner on the Friday evening, July 10.

Matt Dillow from Gartelmann Wines’ Deck Café will join Gather executive chef Ran Kimelfeld, and Frank Fawkner of EXP (recently named Australia's Regional Restaurant of the Year) for a three-course meal celebrating the best local produce and wines.

See https://huntervalleywinefestival.com/beyondthepourdinner/

Rydges Resort Hunter Valley has accommodation packages available for the Friday and Saturday nights from $350 per night including accommodation, breakfast, entry to the Hunter Valley Wine & Beer Festival and a complimentary tasting glass.

See www.huntervalleywinefestival.com

Drink well; help the environment during April

Yalumba's Y Series wine range, drinks retailer Endeavour Group, and 4 Pines Brewing Co will combine to celebrate World Earth Day on April 22. 

The trio will aim to transform everyday purchases into making a tangible national impact on the environment. 

The Our Power, Our Planet campaign will see every purchase of 4 Pines Pacific Ale cans or Y Series wines directly fund the planting of native flora and the restoration of vital bushland across the country.

Dan Holland, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer at Endeavour Group, outlined said that Earth Month across April serves as a powerful reminder of the collective action needed to protect the planet. 

“At Endeavour Group, we believe that when our customers, trade partners and our team act together, we can make a difference with even a day-to-day choice of which drinks to enjoy,” he said.

Throughout April, 4 Pines Brewing Co. has committed to planting one native tree, shrub, or groundcover for every carton of 4 Pines Pacific Ale sold. This initiative contributes to a multi-year partnership with Landcare Australia. 

Simultaneously, Y Series is ramping up its conservation efforts. It is pledging to regenerate 10,000

square metres of koala habitat from proceeds raised throughout April in partnership with Greenfleet.

"Through our Y Series Earth Month campaign, we aim to make a tangible and positive impact on the environment by planting vegetation in areas that need it most," says winemaker Sam Wigan.

"Sustainable practices go beyond our winemaking. It’s about our community, its people and future 

generations.”

Recent Y Series releases ($15-16) include Y Series Lighter Cuvée, Y Series Pinot Grigio 2025, Y Series Lighter Pinot Grigio 2025, Y Series Riesling 2025, Y Series Chardonnay 2025 and Y Series Lighter Shiraz 2024.

I’m working through the wines right now: the chardonnay is very good value and pinot grigio is fine. The lighter shiraz and pinot grigio didn’t work for me. They tasted like they’d been diluted with water. 

Products can be purchased during April at any Dan Murphy’s or BWS outlet, or via their online stores. 

Cool times: Where to chase - and drink - giant icebergs

Anyone for Iceberg Alley?

Any day now, these giant beasts will start drifting past the coasts of the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Dozens, maybe even hundreds of them, local tourism authorities promise.

Newfound and Labrador is one of the best places in the world to go iceberg hunting - dramatic giant cubes of ice - with 90% of each one under the icy water.

Icebergs are edges of glaciers that have broken off and slipped into the ocean.

Roughly 90% of icebergs seen off Newfoundland and Labrador come from the glaciers of western Greenland, while the rest come from glaciers in Canada's Arctic.

Icebergs are so plentiful that locals put them to good use.

You can drink iceberg water straight, as in Berg water, or in spirits like iceberg vodka, gin, and rum. There is even an Iceberg Beer. brewed by Quidi Vidi with pure 20,000 year-old iceberg water.

They might taste good, but icebergs can also be dangerous. Remember The Titanic?

See https://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/things-to-do/iceberg-viewing

Image: Phil Raby

Oops: alcohol-free beer tastes just like the real thing

An alcohol-free beer that tastes just like the real thing?

No such luck. Just a labelling error.

More than 2,500 cases of Steinlager beer were recalled in New Zealand earlier this month after bottles containing alcohol were incorrectly labelled as alcohol free, drinks business reported.

The recall followed a consumer complaint that uncovered a production error at Lion NZ.

Authorities warned consumers avoiding alcohol not to drink the product and to return it for a refund.

Lion NZ issued a recall of Steinlager Ultra Low Carb beer after the bottles containing alcohol were incorrectly labelled as alcohol free.

The affected batch consisted of 2,538 cases. Each case contains 24 bottles of 330ml with a best-before date of October 21, 2026.

In a statement, a Lion NZ spokesperson said: “We have identified through a consumer complaint, an error in a production run resulting in clear bottles containing Steinlager Ultra Low Carb beer ABV 4.2% incorrectly labelled as Steinlager Alcohol Free, being sold in Steinlager Ultra Low Carb 24 packs. 

"Cases may contain a mix of clear bottles with labels for both products.

“Consumer safety is our highest priority, and we want to sincerely apologise to customers and consumers for any distress or concern caused."

New Zealand's Ministry for Primary emphasised the recall did not affect any other Steinlager brand products.

Anyone for a kebab marinated in Guinness?

With an apparent target market of well-off bogans, a Guinness kebab, marinated in the famous Irish black stout, is being launched this week for the start of the Six Nations rugby tournament.

The Guinness kebab will be available for six weeks during the tournament in Box bar locations across the UK, including London, Manchester, Leeds and Nottingham, industry website drinks business reports.

Priced from £12.95 (that's a stonking $25.50 in Aussie money), the beef kofta is marinated in Guinness, "giving the meat the deep, rich flavour," before being wrapped in a hand-made flatbread, drizzled with a sticky homemade Guinness chipotle glaze and topped with fresh mint yoghurt.

The snack is designed to look like a pint of Guinness.

“Our new Guinness kebab is a playful nod to our Irish friends ahead of the Six Nations, whilst also tapping into our favourite night out food as Brits – the kebab," says Tom Mayer-Jones, brand and marketing manager at Box.

"We’ve brought these two things together in a way that feels true to Box - bold, social, and a meal designed to be enjoyed alongside big sporting moments.”

Prices may vary across locations with the kebab being priced at £14.95 in Box Piccadilly.

“We’re inviting everyone down to Box to watch the rugby and enjoy our new menu item,” Mayer-Jones added.

Those indulging in the Guinness kebab are being encouraged to share their pictures, videos and experiences via Instagram and TikTok and tagging in the @theboxbaruk handle.

OK. We get it. It's a publicity stunt. But it has got some traction. 

To your door: Aldi teams with DoorDash for liquor deliveries

I am an unashamed admirer of the range of budget wines offered by Aldi stores - and now they can be delivered to your home via DoorDash.

The Aldi range of liquor products will be available for delivery via DoorDash across New South Wales

Following a successful national launch of DoorDash grocery delivery, Aldi has announced that from Wednesday beers, wine and spirits can be delivered to homes.

Aldi's special buys will also be available for national delivery from most locations via DoorDash.

Bad luck if you live in Tasmania, where there are no Aldi stores.

“Whether it’s for a celebration, a quiet night in or a last-minute gathering, customers in New South Wales and Victoria can order their favourite Aldi liquor products direct to their door, simply through the tap of the DoorDash app," says Simon Padovani-Ginies, group director at Aldi Australia.

“Since launching our partnership with DoorDash in 2025, we have been working hard to ensure as much of the Aldi offering is available to customers for delivery.

"Adding liquor for our New South Wales and Victorians shoppers and our beloved special buys for all Australian shoppers means they can access more of the high-quality, low-priced Aldi products they know and love in a more convenient way.”

Taste of Summer returns to the Hobart waterfront

For food and wine lovers in Hobart over the holidays a trip or two to the Taste of Summer festival is de rigueur.

With a range of new experiences locked in for the fifth edition in its current guise, the Taste showcases dishes and drinks from around the island state, along with a range of entertainment.

Held at Princes Wharf 1, next to where the Sydney-Hobart yachts finish, the event formerly known as the Taste of Tasmania is one of Australia's longest-running gourmet festivals, spanning four decades.

The Taste starts on December 27 and runs through to January 3. It is always a great event with a fun, family vibe. New Year's Eve festivities often sell out.



Over 30% of the stallholders will be making their debuts, says food and wine co-ordinator Jo Cook, who predicts this year's event will be the best yet.

Stalwarts including Clover Hill sparkling wines and Willie Smiths cider will be joined by several innovative new operators.

Among the highlights will be Season & Fire, a new restaurant showcasing indigenous seafood dishes, including abalone, and the barbecue spectacle at The Smokeyard.

The new Winemaker Series will offer booked guided wine tasting sessions with local winemaking stars including Nick Glaetzer from Glaetzer-Dixon Family Winemakers, Keira O'Brien from Rivulet Wines and Alice Davidson from Aunt Alice Wines.

For spirits lovers. &K Distillery will offer bookable VIP tasting experiences.

Other wineries involved include Beautiful Isle, Clover Hill, Derwent Estate, Haddow and Dineen, L'Appel, Ponting and Meadowbank and Sonnen, along with star brewers, cider producers and distillers.

Food highlights will include dishes from around the globe: from Ethiopia to Chile. And I hear there might be some free taste treats when you enter the gates. 

For bigger plates think the likes of Bruny Island Cheeses, Formosa Bites seafood, Katsu burgers by Lilly Trewartha and Tantuni Turkish cuisine. 

There will also be a new sports bar. 

For full details, times and tickets see https://www.tasteofsummer.com.au/

Marketing madness: meet a beer made using melted snow

It is the silly season, so a beer made with melted snow should come as no surprise.

Global brewing giant AB InBev has made a beer made with snow from New York State's Highmark Stadium as part of its sponsorship of NFL team the Buffalo Bills, the drinks business reports.



The limited-edition beer, named Bud Light Blizzard Brew, “celebrates the final season for the Bills" at their current stadium.

The snow used in the brew was gathered from the first snowfall at Highmark Stadium earlier this year.

It was then transported to the Anheuser-Busch brewery in Baldwinsville, New York - around 100km away. 

The brewery team then integrated the snow into the brewing process to create a light beer sold in custom 16oz cans.

AB InBev has said that the release of Bud Light Blizzard Brew will be available at select retailers in the Buffalo area and fan gathering spots this month.

The stadium opened in 1973 but is set to close at the conclusion of the current 2025 NFL season to be replaced by a nearby new Highmark Stadium. 

Its OK to go NoLo: No one feels guilty any more

It is OK to go alcohol free.

No guilt.

The team at Heineken 0.0, which is the best-selling non-alcoholic beer, has revealed that almost three-quarters (72%) of people are confident enough to skip alcohol over the holidays without fear of being judged or excluded. 

A recent study, carried out in five countries in partnership with the author of Sober Curious, Ruby Warrington, shows attitudes are changing fast.

It revealed over two-thirds (67%) of people surveyed now say it's outdated and inappropriate to ask why someone isn't drinking alcohol in 2025.

Also, 81% agree it's acceptable to say "no" to alcohol at festive events - with no explanation required.

"The question 'why aren't you drinking?' belongs firmly in the past," Warrington says.

"People everywhere now feel free to choose if and when they drink alcohol without fearing social pressure or awkwardness. When I coined the term 'sober curious' nearly 10 years ago, the goal was to normalise the choice not to drink – and we're finally here."

It was the second survey in 12 months recording positive attitudes.

Heineken’s partner in its original January study, Charles Spence, Professor of Experimental Psychology at the University of Oxford, said: "These two studies show how quickly attitudes shift. Alcohol has been central to social life for generations, but the data now proves moderation is for everyone."

How people plan to celebrate this season also tells a story. 

At least 37% will moderate their intake, 27% plan to abstain altogether, and 1 in 5 will raise a 0.0 beer instead. Gen Z are leading the charge for balance with 30% planning to 'zebra stripe' their drinks, alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic all night.

Fear of missing out has finally gone out of fashion with 86% saying they are comfortable drinking low or no-alcohol options at festive events, and 76% say they don't need alcohol to feel included.

In fact, 90% say they'd support a friend choosing to drink low or no-alcohol versions this festive season - showing social pressure has given way to social acceptance.

# The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 10,001 adults aged 18+ in the UK, US, Spain, Japan and Brazil.

Famous beer business goes a little flat

Times are tough in the Heineken beer kingdom.

Żywiec Group, a subsidiary of Heineken, plans to close its Namysłów Brewery in Poland next year. 

It is a historic site where production was first recorded as early as 1321.



Żywiec has owned the brewery (above) since 2018 after buying it from Chicago Poland Investment Group.

Żywiec says the decision is down to “a declining beer market and rising costs and taxes”.

As if that isn’t disturbing enough, Heineken has also revealed it has plans to “reshape” its Amsterdam head office as part of a new strategy that will “impact approximately 400 roles” with its workforce either facing “relocation” or their “roles ceasing to exist”.

The decision, which is part of the Dutch beer giant’s new EverGreen 2030 strategy, will be starting in 2026 and will be in addition to 200 roles of the digital and technology department already being phased out since October 2024, trade publication drinks business reports.

The changes will, Heineken says, assist in “reducing complexity and speeding up decision-making” as well as help the beer business to “operate with greater impact, empower its teams, and position itself to capture growth opportunities more decisively”.

The reshaping of its global head office is part of a series of initiatives designed to create “a more agile, simplified, and connected organisation, ready to focus on opportunities for growth and innovation”.

Sounds ominous. 

The business has also highlighted it is “scaling the rollout of its digital backbone (DBB), a multi-year programme transforming how Heineken operates across more than 70 markets. By integrating over 40 digital platforms, DBB will simplify processes, unlock the power of data, and enable faster innovation”.  

The brewer says “this will strengthen Heineken’s ability to respond quickly and efficiently to consumer trends and market shifts”.

Heineken chairman of the executive board and CEO Dolf van den Brink said: “The world around us is changing fast. Geopolitical and economic pressures are real, but so are the opportunities created by technology and evolving consumer trends. To stay ahead, we must accelerate our digital transformation and sharpen our focus on winning in the market.

“We recognise the impact these changes can have on our people and are committed to supporting them with care and respect throughout this transition. With a stronger, simplified, more agile organisation, we are well positioned to unlock new growth opportunities and innovation.”

In Poland, Namysłów mayor Jacek Fior said the town’s identity had been closely-identified with the brewery for centuries and highlighted how it was the second-oldest continually-existing enterprise in Poland, behind the Wieliczka salt mine.

Żywiec said each of the brewery’s 100 employees will receive full severance packages and additional support agreed with trade unions.

Coopers goes the zero alcohol route

Cult Adelaide brewery Coopers has just released its first no alcohol beer 

Coopers Brewery says its new non-alcoholic beer - Coopers Zero - is designed “to quench the growing thirst
for ‘beer/life balance’ among health-conscious Australian drinkers”.

Packaged in a silver can, Coopers Zero is the latest permanent addition to the Australian family brewery’s portfolio since Coopers Australian Lager was unveiled in 2023. 

 No or lower alcohol (NOLO) is the fastest-growing beer category in Australia, now exceeding light beer in volume and retail value, market research firm Circana says. 

Appealing to health-conscious drinkers, Coopers Zero contains only 49 calories per 375ml can with all the flavour of a full-strength beer, minus the alcohol. 

Coopers managing director Michael Shearer said Coopers Zero would impress drinkers seeking an alternative to full or mid-strength beer.

“More and more Australians want a beer/life balance,” he said.

“We set out to develop and deliver a great-tasting, full flavoured beer to cater for Australians seeking to lower their alcohol intake or switch up their drinking habits.

“Coopers has a proven track record in low alcohol beer and we’ve drawn upon this experience and our 163 years of brewing heritage to create Coopers Zero.

“Our brewing team were determined not to compromise on the renowned quality and taste of a Coopers beer.

“The result is a refreshing, easy-drinking beer with moderate bitterness – a non-alcoholic option brewed in the traditional style and which suits all drinking occasions.”

Coopers Zero will be available nationally in 375ml cans from this month. 

Spring into spring with Sydney gourmet festivals and trails

Sydney is a big city with a huge hunger and thirst for food and wine events.

As spring, and new produce, land, Sydney will host myriad gourmet festivals that Destination NSW says will "transform the city into a giant al fresco dining room".

Seasonal treats from producers all across the Sydney basin will be showcased at the annual St Ives Food and Wine Festival, on the St Ives Village Green in the city's northern suburbs on September 21.

Across in the west, the Cabramatta Moon Festival is a traditional south-east Asian harvest celebration to be held on September 28.

There will be music and cultural performances along with street food and the National Lion Dance Competition, as well as fireworks.

Alternatively, head to Millers Point above The Rocks for the Sydney Observatory's own Moon Festival on October 2 to enjoy artist Truc Truong's striking lanterns. There will be lion dances by Sydney's Qing Fong Dragon and Lion Dance Team, tunes from DJ Small Fry and dishes by Mumma Le's Vietnamese Kitchen.

NSW Wine Month events (above) will be held throughout November. This month-long celebration of the state's 16 diverse wine regions features a series of pop-up cellar doors, indulgent long lunches and banquets paired with premium wines across the city.

A highlight of the program is the Sydney Cellar Door festival, on November 8-9 at First Fleet Park and Tallawoladah Lawn in The Rocks.

In between spring festivals, Sydney offers plenty of other epicurean adventures, including learning the art of cooking all things marine during one of Sydney Seafood School's cooking classes at the Sydney Fish Market, in the inner-city suburb of Pyrmont.

Sydney Beer Week (October 20-26) returns with events spanning the city, from the northern beaches to the inner west and CDB.



If spirits are more your thing, there are craft distilleries dotted around Marrickville. Think Poor Toms, Unexpected Guest, Ester Spirits, or a gin-crafting class at Moonshiner Gin Distillery.

Alternatively head north to explore the craft breweries and artisanal distilleries lining The Brookie Trail. Named for the suburb of Brookvale options for staying in fun mode include 4 Pines Brewing Co's Truck Bar, Bucketty's Brewing Co, 7th Day Brewery, or Nomad Brewing Co.

Go behind the scenes on a tour of Manly Spirits Co. Distillery and Tasting Bar or attend its gin school; or visit Goodradigbee Distillers' Goodbar cocktail bar. Maybe head over to Seadrift, Australia's first non-alcoholic distillery.

For more ideas check out https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/   

How old do you need to be to buy a drink?

If you are old enough to vote, are you old enough to buy a bottle of wine?

The answer is that it varies wildly depending on where you are on the globe, the drinks business reported this week. See https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/

There are hugely different ideas about what constitutes adulthood, and what you can do when you achieve that landmark.

Some countries set no age limit at all for buying alcohol, others insist on 18, and a few insist on 21 - an age at which young folk are routinely sent to die for their country.

The World Health Organisation says Burkina Faso is often cited as having the world’s youngest legal drinking age - effectively 13, though enforcement is minimal and the law rarely applied.

Many European countries, including Germany, Austria, Denmark, Belgium, Luxembourg and Switzerland, allow 16-year-olds to purchase beer and wine. Spirits, however, are restricted until 18.

Malta is unusual in having set its legal drinking age at 17 since 2009, when it was raised from 16. It represents a compromise, designed to curb school-age drinking without removing what had become a social norm.

Eighteen is by far the most common legal drinking age worldwide. It is the standard in much of Europe (France, Spain, Italy), Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Mexico), Africa (Kenya, South Africa) and Oceania (Australia, New Zealand).

The reasoning is that 18 is the age of legal majority in many places, when individuals may vote, marry, sign contracts, and, logically, consume alcohol.

Canada's rules depend on the jurisdiction, with most provinces at 19 and a handful at 18, while the US has enforced 21 nationwide since 1984, credited with reducing drink-driving fatalities. The rule means Americans can vote, marry and serve in the military at 18, but cannot legally buy alcohol for another three years.

Several other countries, including Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and various Pacific islands, also opt for 21, often driven by religious or cultural attitudes.

Then, of course, in some countries, alcohol is illegal regardless of age, rendering any “legal drinking age” irrelevant. Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, Libya, Yemen, Afghanistan, Somalia, Sudan, Brunei and the Maldives operate complete bans, often grounded in religious law.

Image: Giuseppe Lombardo, Scop.io 

From camel skewers to squidlipops: Dark Mofo's Winter Feast to push boundaries

Dark Mofo's Winter Feast is promising to dish up a mixture of old favourites and rising culinary stars.

The the food and drink element of the winter solstice festival will returns to the Nipaluna/Hobart waterfront for eight nights of feasting next month.

The waterfront location will welcome over 70 stallholders along with music, firelight and community vibes.

‘The Winter Feast is the warm, beating heart of Dark Mofo," says Dark Mofo artistic director Chris Twite.

"Gathered around fires and feasting by candlelight, it’s where we come in from the cold to share stories of where we've been and what we've seen. Eating together - friends, strangers, locals, visitors - is an important festival ritual, and the staggering array of incredible food on offer means there is always something for everyone.’

The Feast will welcome guest chef Niyati Rao from acclaimed Mumbai restaurant Ekaa, who will collab with Craig Will, Bianca Welsh and James Welsh from Stillwater in Launceston.

Other food collaborations include Thi Le + Fat Pig Farm, which sees award-winning Melbourne chef Thi Le teaming up with locals Fat Pig Farm; Salvage Drink Co. X Braised presenting infused cocktails paired with spiced offerings from Hobart's premium lamb providore; and Marla Singer X L’Appel Wines pairing an octopus slider with pinot noir.

Chef Analiese Gregory makes her return to the fires of the Feast, this year bringing a taste of the Tasmanian sea. She’ll be serving up skewers of baby abalone, shiitake and black garlic, grilled over fire (top image).

New Feast stallholders include Dark Dogs, serving their take on dagwood dogs; wine bar South will presents a slow-cooked possum bao; Elle’s Pantry will have pockets stuffed with seasonal pickles, tabbouleh, and green harissa hummus; and Bass Strait Seafood & Co by Sabina Newton will offer dishes ranging from creamy chowder to buttery marinara.

Joining the new stallholders will be familiar favourites, from Lilly Trewartha’s katsu sando, to Queen Sheba’s injera with slow-cooked chicken; Soufra & Co’s folded layers of filo pastry and custard baked fresh to order, to the famous squidlipop from Formosa Bites (above).

Fresh from his appearance on ABC’s Eat the Invaders, Mona’s executive chef Vince Trim is back with Heavy Metal Kitchen, eating the problem with a feral feast: fire-charred camel, skewered and served with an array of spiced and braised condiments.

Visitors can wash the dishes down with new offerings from New Norfolk’s Welcome Swallow Brewery, fizzy blush from Common Wine, or a Pressing Matters pinot noir.

Mona’s own wineries - Moorilla and Domaine A - will be on site, along with Moo Brew.

Amanda Vallis, the Winter Feast curator, says: ‘The food community in Lutruwita/Tasmania is one of the best things this island has to offer, and nowhere is it more pronounced than when everyone comes together to feast around the fires in the depths of winter.

"Whether it’s a hot take on a dagwood dog, or the flavour explosion offered by a guest chef all the way from India, the Winter Feast is sure to fill your cup and feed your soul.’

A number of events will celebrate the power of music, storytelling and First Nations cultures.

The Winter Feast takes over Salamanca Lawns and Princes Wharf Shed 1 and runs and runs on both weekends of the festival: Thursday June 5-8 and June 1-15.

Season passes are available via darkmofo.net.au/winter-feast

As part of the Winter Feast’s commitment to reaching zero waste, all stallholders will use compostable crockery and cutlery, with reusable cups and schooners available for beverages. The Feast is also a completely cash-free event.

# Dark Mofo is Tasmania’s mid-winter festival celebrating the dark through large-scale public art, food, music, fire, light, and noise, in Hobart.

Images: Dearna Bond, Dark Mofo  

Cabin Fever means fiery fun and games in Margaret River

I cannot think of a wine region in Australia that loves a festival as much as Margaret River in Western Australia. 

Cabin Fever Festival returns for its ninth edition of fire-focused fun from July 18-27 in Margaret River and Busselton for a showcase of food, music, and events - over 40 in all. 

Returning events include Blazing Brews at Beerfarm, Wine's a Drag at Bungalow Neighbourhood Social, the Cheese Toastie Battle, and the always-rowdy Shelter the Storm at Shelter Brewing Co.

There's also a range of new experiences including a Lo-Fi Wine Fair featuring bites from Dahl Daddys and wine from lo-fi, small-batch winemakers Amato Vino, Si Vintners, Rosa Glen Farm and Dirt Temple. 

Hot eatery de'sendent teams up with LS Merchants for some fine food and wine, while Fervor and Si Vintners join forces for Flint and Folklore in the Si Barrel Hall. There will also be Yum Yum Cha with new kid on the block Miss Chows. 

Hair of the Truffle Dog will see an early morning truffle hunt with Margaret River Truffle Farm paired with a 'champagne' breakfast with Skigh Wine, while Lunch on Fire at Howard Park will showcase Argentinian fare, fire pits and wine. 

Three Margaret River chef heavyweights: Brendan Pratt (Busselton Pavilion), Mal Chow(Chows Table) and Rob Webster (Normal Van) come together for Cape to Plate.

“One of the most exciting things about Cabin Fever is how it sparks unexpected, incredible collaborations, that people not only love to attend, but the venues, producers and chefs love working together to deliver," says festival director Erin Molloy.

“People have come to rely on the festival to deliver an experience like no other in the region during the winter months, with the region coming alive as a winter wonderland of fire pits, feasts, and fun.”

Making a return in 2025 is The Cabin presented by Shelter Brewing Co. This free, family-friendly festival hub will light up the Busselton Foreshore from July 18-20. 

Tickets are now on sale at www.cabinfeverfest.com.au

Image: Lauren Trickett 

Darwin theory: the best time for gourmets to visit

Foodies planning a trip to Darwin should pencil in a potential visit in August.

This year’s Darwin Festival, to run from August 7-24) will feature its biggest Taste of Darwin program ever with the return of chef Jimmy Shu’s Hanuman restaurant after four years, and the festival debut of the city’s hottest new eatery: Flora’s Temper Mexicantina.

The Festival’s Taste of Darwin program will double in size to feature six events, with two announced today: a City Cocktail Experience, where guests can choose between a glitzy 1920s-style bar hop or a wild Tropical bar adventure; and a Gloom and Gourmet Dinner, a dark feast that transforms Parap Fine Foods into a red-lit, moody banquet hall complete with roving performers belting out eerie murder ballads.

“Last year’s Taste of Darwin events were a huge hit and sold out fast, so we’re excited to not only bring them back but double the offering with truly unique experiences that showcase the spirit of Darwin,” said Darwin Festival artistic director Kate Fell.

Each Taste of Darwin event will offer something unexpected and exclusive, Taste of Darwin curator Neville Pantazis promises.

“Darwin’s food and bar scene is vibrant, diverse and truly multicultural," he says. "We’re serving up fresh, fun, and unforgettable experiences that celebrate the essence of Australia’s northernmost capital.”

The return of Hanuman, arguably the Territory’s most celebrated restaurant, to the line-up of exceptional food offerings at Festival Park, is great news for foodies, added Fell.

“Hanuman’s long-anticipated return brings an iconic flavour back to the Festival, while Flora’s Temper Mexicantina adds an exciting new layer to our culinary landscape. With more reasons than ever for food lovers to head to Festival Park during Darwin Festival, it’s set to be a true celebration of Territory flavours.”



The festival has also announced that its key beverage suppliers this year are local to the Northern Territory, with new partner Alice Springs Brewing Co. joining Darwin’s Willing Distillery.

Darwin Festival, 2024 Gold Winner at the national Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, will release its full program of cabaret, theatre, comedy, dance, visual arts, outdoor concerts under the stars, and fun family events next month.  

Sydney Brewery making big strides

 

Many Australian small-batch brewers are doing it tough in a difficult economy but hotel mogul Dr Jerry Schwartz's Sydney Brewery is expanding its operations.

Sydney Brewery has announced the takeover of the Rocks Brewing Company and Restaurant in Alexandria and is developing a new brewery at Lovedale, in the Hunter Valley.

The Schwartz Family Company (SFC) has acquired the Rocks Brewing Company, including its production facilities and restaurant/bar. Rocks Brewing entered voluntary administration in October of last year.

The brewery will be incorporated into Sydney Brewery’s operations, with the brewery and restaurant re-branded as Sydney Brewery Alexandria, complementing Sydney Brewery Surry Hills and the production facility at Lovedale. 

The 20hL Brewhouse in Alexandria will be vital for meeting the massive increase in demand for Sydney Brewery beers and ciders, SFC director Jerry Schwartz says.

In addition, a new 30hL Brewhouse is scheduled to open at Lovedale by Easter, which will function in addition to the existing 18hL Brewhouse.

 
Schwartz said that the acquisition of Rocks Brewing Company was a positive move for the industry.

“Last year was a very difficult year for the craft brewing industry, but Sydney Brewery bucked the trend, and we have been urgently seeking extra capacity to produce our craft beers,” he said. 

“Our Sydney Brewery and restaurant in Surry Hills has been very popular and we believe that we can make Sydney Brewery Alexandria similarly popular with locals and visitors. 

"We will be looking to sell the remainder of the Rocks Brewing stock and then start producing the Sydney Brewery range from the Alexandria site.

“We will more than double our production capacity at Lovedale in the Hunter Valley, and by the time everything is operational, our potential capacity will have increased to over half a million litres of craft beers, ciders and spirits across our various breweries.

“It was perhaps inevitable that the craft brewing industry would consolidate after years of rapid growth. Sydney Brewery has been operating since 2005 and not only has its own outlets, but it also supplies to our network of 15 hotels in NSW, ACT, Queensland and Victoria, and has a strong presence in retail trade.

“We are ramping up production while many craft brewers are struggling to survive, and our takeover of the Rocks Brewery operation will provide an outstanding opportunity to both increase the amount of Sydney Brewery craft beers that we produce and also revive the Alexandria location as a prime brewpub, dining, entertainment and functions venue.

“We will revamp the menu, the drinks selection and the entertainment over the next few months. The Brewpub is currently operating and will officially relaunch with its new branding and menus in mid March."

Sydney Brewery Alexandria is in the Sydney Corporate Park, 160 Bourke Rd, Alexandria, with easy access from Sydney CBD and the Sydney Airport precinct.

Brewers get frothy: want a break on beer taxes

 

There is nothing more Australian than enjoying a cold beer.

But the price of a beer is constantly increasing and brewers are asking for a break.

With the beer tax set to increase yet again on Monday, February 3, the Brewers Association of Australia has made a submission for Treasurer Jim Chalmers' budget consultation process calling for urgent action to address the high rates of tax.

Brewers Association of Australia CEO, John Preston said: “On behalf of brewers and beer drinkers across Australia we are asking for urgent action to address the high rates of beer tax.

"We already have one of the highest beer tax rates in the world – there is no need for it to keep going up twice a year.

“Australians are doing the right thing and drinking responsibly. All these tax hikes are doing is making it increasingly unaffordable for Australians to head out to their local for a beer.

“Last year the newly elected Labour Government in the United Kingdom used its first Budget to continue the reductions in beer tax that were started under the previous Conservative government.

"We believe the Treasurer should follow the example of his British counterpart and give much needed relief to beer drinkers and our hospitality sector."

Image: Scop.io