Gift yourself wine

If ever there was a year worth toasting, it’s 2022. So, we’re raising a glass – or four – to a year sans lockdowns.

Photography by Leon Schoots

A year of survival and revival; of reconnecting and resurfacing; of the simple pleasure of gathering with friends and family over good food, and yes, great wine. If the recent past has taught us anything,

MANDURANG VALLEY NV BRUTE

What is it about a fizzy bubble? The gentle sound of the rising beads, the spritzy tickle on the nose, the fine flute to hold. Let’s not analyse it too much, it’s just somehow the ideal celebratory drop, and especially at Christmas. Pour your nanna a glass of gorgeous Mandurang Valley brute, clink and drink. This dignified, sparkling Chardonnay and Pinot Noir blend presents a fine and persistent bead. It displays green pear, summer citrus and ripe strawberries in both aroma and palate. It’s also the crowd-pleasing drop to bridge the generations this festive season. it’s not to wait. Don’t wait to celebrate occasions small and large. It’s time to raise a toast, with four bottles hand-picked by people in the know; your friendly regional winemakers.

CA’MUNARI 2020 PROSECCO

We were surprised to find a bona fide Italian wine from our friends at Munari at Ladys Pass, near Heathcote. Turns out this family, with its own Italian roots, has hand-chosen and imported the wine, just in time to share this Christmas and new year. And it’s a gift. Arriving from its traditional home in Veneto, north-eastern Italy, it’s of DOCG quality, which is the highest standard possible from the most famous Prosecco-producing region. The wine is the perfect blend of sweet and savoury, and has a beautiful small bead and fresh apple, pear and floral aromas. Gee, thanks Munari!

SANDHURST RIDGE 2022 ROSÉ

Rosé and summer make such a loved-up marriage; a fresh pink hue in the glass and a warm evening under the alfresco equals instant domestic bliss. This lovely wine from the vines of Sandhurst Ridge in Marong combines three varietals, romantically grown side-by-side on the Greblo family’s beautiful estate within the boxironbark forest. Here, the brothers have made harmonious use of the savoury elements of Nebbiolo and Cabernet Sauvignon and the crisp acidity of Sauvignon Blanc. The wine is complex and fresh, with a slight coppery hue. The winemakers recommend cellaring for three years to enhance development, but who has time for that? Enjoy in moderation this Christmas. TURNERS CROSSING 2019 ROSÉ

Continue to think pink with this 100 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon wine from the Turners Crossing vineyard by the beautiful Loddon River. It’s been gently pressed and settled for 30 hours before commencing fermentation using indigenous yeast. This slow and careful process has produced fresh berry aromas and a likewise fruity palate, balanced by a fine acidity leading to perfect length and balance. The Turners Crossing foodies say it’s ideal matched with barbecued or grilled fish, pork or veal dishes and vegetables. In Strathdale, we pair it with a charcuterie board of cheeses, fruits and last year’s beetroot relish, just to team with the ‘think pink’ theme.

DIGNITY AND RESPECT WHEN IT MATTERS MOST

Conducting funerals locally, across Victoria and interstate

Ph: 03 5441 4800 420 Napier Street, Bendigo www.napierpark.com.au

BUNJA THAI

AUTHENTIC THAI FOOD | DINE IN | TAKEAWAY

Bringing fresh and delicious Thai food to Bendigo’s CBD with Thai chefs and table service in an amazing Gold Rush Architectural masterpiece. Fully licensed and open for lunch Mon-Fri and dinner from 5pm Mon-Sat.

bunja.com.au

BENDIGO ERNEST HOTEL

STAY | DINE | SHOP | EXPLORE

Situated in the heart of the CBD, our new boutique offering provides holiday and business travellers a luxurious, modern and ambient getaway set against a grand heritage backdrop. Complimentary off-street parking. 100m from the Art Gallery.

hotelbendigo.com.au

PINOT AND PICASSO

PAINT & SIP

Not your average art class! Creative workshops with a BYO boozy twist. Perfect for catch-ups, birthdays, hen’s, team building events. Unleash your inner creative and surprise yourself! Book now! Hargreaves Mall, Bendigo.

CAFE ESSENCE

COFFEE | CAKE | LUNCH | FUNCTIONS | CATERING

Whether it be a beautiful breakfast, lazy lunch or special occasion we are sure to have it covered. Come in today and enjoy a local wine on our balcony and soak up the Bull Street food precinct. Open Tues - Fri 7am - 3pm and Sat 8am - 2pm.

cafeessencebendigo.com

STAR CINEMA

BENDIGO’S ONLY BOUTIQUE CINEMA

Plush couches, a licensed bar and an amazing programme of current and classic films for the discerning film enthusiast. Operating in the grand old Eaglehawk Town Hall, we screen 7 nights a week plus matinees Friday to Sunday.

starcinema.org.au

GOLDEN REEF MOTOR INN

STAY | DINE | SHOP | EXPLORE

An ideal base to discover the Bendigo region, with easy access to the CBD, major attractions and sporting events. Experience spacious, clean, modern and comfortable accommodation with pool, spa and free wifi available.