You normally envisage a winery as a secluded spot with vineyards stretching out to the horizon, but these grape experts have brought their operation into the city and created Urban Winery. The Moore Park venue functions as a cellar door for tastings, a wine bar with appropriate cheese and charcuterie snacks, and a fully functioning winery.
They encourage city dwellers to get involved in creating their favourite grown-up grape juice, and at this tour and tasting session, you’ll be getting your hands (and feet) into the action. The wine education begins with a tour of the facilities, where you’ll forget more about winemaking than a skilled sommeliere. You’ll be sampling varieties straight from the barrel while you learn about wine maturation, structure, aroma and your own palate.
But the big drawcard is when you get the chance to hop in the tubs and squelch the divine liquid out of freshly harvested grapes. They might no be making evey vintage between their toes, but the romanticised tradition is one every wine lover should try.
After the smooshing, the group will enjoy a platter of local cheeses and cold cuts before heading home with a bottle from the winery’s A.Retief label. The whole affair will wrap up in 90 minutes, and all the tastings and snacks are included in the ticket price.