The More You Know
I've found these websites to be invaluable resources for discovering small winemakers and enhancing my wine knowledge. They offer a wealth of information about unique vineyards and their artisanal approaches to winemaking. By exploring their content, I've connected with passionate winemakers whose stories and creations truly inspire me. It's been a rewarding journey supporting these independent producers and learning more about the world of wine.
MY FAV PLACES TO LEARN
Young Gun of Wine
Young Gun of Wine is a dynamic platform dedicated to spotlighting Australia's emerging winemakers and innovative wine labels. Established in 2007, it has become a go-to resource for wine enthusiasts eager to discover the next generation of talent shaping the Australian wine landscape. The platform is renowned for its annual awards, which celebrate winemakers who are pushing boundaries and introducing fresh perspectives to winemaking. These awards have become a benchmark for identifying cutting-edge wines and the stories behind them. In addition to the awards, Young Gun of Wine offers a wealth of content, including articles on current wine trends, profiles of top wine bars, and insights into various wine regions. This makes it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in contemporary Australian wine culture. By exploring Young Gun of Wine, you can support independent winemakers who are redefining the industry with their creativity and passion. It's an excellent platform for discovering unique wines and gaining insights into the future of Australian winemaking.
Yarra Valley Small Wineries
The Yarra Valley Smaller Wineries website is a fantastic resource for discovering boutique wineries in the Yarra Valley region. It showcases a collection of family-owned and operated wineries, each offering unique, handcrafted wines that reflect the rich terroir of the area. By exploring this site, you can find exceptional local wines and support independent businesses dedicated to sustainable and minimal intervention winemaking practices. Many of these wineries provide personalized experiences, with cellar doors often staffed by the winemakers or their family members, offering insights into their craft and passion. Visiting these wineries not only allows you to enjoy distinctive wines but also contributes to the local economy and the preservation of traditional winemaking methods. The Yarra Valley Smaller Wineries website serves as an excellent starting point for planning your visits and learning more about these hidden gems in the Yarra Valley.
Melbourne Wine School
Melbourne Wine School is a fantastic place to learn about wine, whether you're just getting started or looking to take your knowledge to the next level. They offer a range of courses, including the popular WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) certifications, like Levels 1, 2, and 3. I took the WSET Level 2 course here, and it was such an enjoyable experience. The instructors were super knowledgeable and made everything easy to understand, even the more technical stuff. The tasting sessions were a highlight—they really helped bring everything we were learning to life. If you're looking to learn more about wine in a relaxed and supportive environment, Melbourne Wine School is definitely worth checking out. It’s a great place to dive into wine education while having a lot of fun along the way!
Wine Folly
Wine Folly is an outstanding online platform dedicated to wine education, making the world of wine approachable and enjoyable for everyone—from complete beginners to experienced enthusiasts. The website offers a wealth of resources, including informative articles, detailed guides on wine varieties and regions, beautifully designed infographics, and interactive tools that simplify the complexities of wine. Personally, I’ve found Wine Folly to be an incredibly helpful resource in my wine-learning journey. It’s where I go when I want to explore a new grape variety, understand wine pairings, or learn about a specific wine region. The content is easy to understand, visually engaging, and presented in a way that doesn’t feel overwhelming. For anyone starting their wine education, Wine Folly is a fantastic place to begin. The information is clear and accessible, making it an excellent tool for building confidence in understanding and appreciating wine.
Good Pair Days is an amazing wine subscription service that makes exploring wine from home both easy and enjoyable. By taking a simple taste quiz, they create a personalised selection of wines tailored to your preferences. Each box comes with detailed tasting notes, food pairing suggestions, and even custom recipes, which really add to the overall experience. What I love most is how fun and interactive it is. Personally, I use Good Pair Days to explore different wine styles and regions without leaving home. It’s such a great way to try new things at an affordable price, with bottles starting as low as $14. The detailed info they provide has also taught me a lot about wine, and the playful touch—like earning points and badges for reviews and challenges—keeps it engaging. It’s been such an enjoyable way to expand my wine knowledge while having fun, and I always look forward to my next box arriving. If you’re looking for a hassle-free and entertaining way to discover new wines, Good Pair Days is a perfect choice!
MARLEY SPOON
During the COVID-19 lockdowns, I signed up for Marley Spoon, an Australian meal kit delivery service that provides fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes straight to your door. This service reignited my passion for cooking, allowing me to experiment with diverse cuisines and dishes I hadn't tried before. Each week, I selected from a variety of recipes, which made meal planning both convenient and exciting. As I became more confident in the kitchen, I started pairing my meals with different wines, enhancing the dining experience. The convenience of having everything delivered, combined with the fun of trying new recipes and wine pairings, turned meal preparation into a highlight of my day.
GOOD PAIR
DAYS
