Alida by Josef Chromy

25/01/202625/01/2026

This understated restaurant, Alida, lies beside the waterfall at the Penny Royal, Launceston, Tasmania and has a lot to offer. It is casual but very close to fine dining in delivery. Apparently Josef Chromy, local wine maker, dedicated the restaurant to his wife, Alida.

Tasmanian scallops with pumpkin cream, sage & pickled shallot

A fan of seafood, especially Tassie seafood, I am always on the hunt for restaurants that truly honour the art of bringing seafood from ocean to plate and allowing the produce to speak for itself.

I have eaten here before and it was stellar. This time though, two dishes in, I am feeling a little underwhelmed. Not bad by any stretch, just not quite hitting the heights I know they are capable of but after chatting with the maitre D’ things accelerate to world class again.

The Tasmanian scallops in the half shell with pumpkin cream, sage and pickled shallot arrive looking absolutely beautiful. The colour contrast is stunning and the plating is elegant. But scallops are delicate little treasures and these were just a touch overcooked. Tasmanian scallops are, in my humble opinion, the best in the world. Sweet, subtle and silky when treated with care. Overcook them and they turn chewy, losing that ocean freshness that makes them so special.

For entrée I move to the Cape Grim beef tartare with gochujang, capers, chives and crisps. Yes, this one is gluten free. The tartare itself is beautifully cut and seasoned with confidence. The richness of the Cape Grim beef balances well with the punchy gochujang and the briny pop from the capers. It is bold, modern and very moreish. Perfect as a share plate.

For my main, it simply has to be seafood. The market fish of the day is Blue Eye Trevalla, which is my all time favourite fish. Found in Tasmanian waters, it has a firm, meaty texture with a clean, subtle flavour that I just adore. It is one of those fish that feels both luxurious and honest at the same time. Bitey yet delicate. To my palate, close to perfect when cooked well. This dish brings me back into happy territory and reminds me why I love Tassie seafood so much.

The wine list is simple, proudly Tasmanian and features some of my favourites. By the glass there is a Coal River Valley Riesling, a Hughes and Hughes Pinot Gris which I adore, slightly pink from a touch of skin contact, and a Granton Sauvignon Blanc from the Granton region. Granton is an up and coming wine region. Those of us who grew up in Tassie would never have guessed it would end up on the wine map, but here we are and the wines are genuinely world class.

For Chardonnay lovers, the Milton Reserve is an absolute standout. Textured, elegant and beautifully balanced, it is one of those Chardonnays that makes you slow down and really pay attention.

Of course, no trip to Tassie would be complete without sampling a few (or a dozen) of the world’s best Pinot Noirs. The Bremley is a standout. Simple but confident. The winemaker has really nailed what a great Pinot invites. Light, yes, but with depth, structure and a story behind every glass. It is a true crowd pleaser and I am so glad the wonderful maitre d suggested it.

I really feel this restaurant is an undiscovered gem in Launceston and would highly recommend a visit.

Today the wonderful staff sent me off with an alfogatto, just devine!

Thank you team and see you again soon, Sam

Sydney Wine Festival Supporting NSW wines!

09/11/202509/11/2025

By Nature Art Bubbles

A Celebration of Wine, Water and Wonder

Sydney does festivals, concerts and sporting events!
When the city opens its heart to wine, it becomes an extraordinary experience ; a feast for the senses, where the Harbour sparkles, the Opera House glows, and some of the best of Australian vineyards pour their stories by the glass.

Welcome to the Sydney Cellar Door; a FUN & vibrant gathering along The Rocks, where heritage and innovation meet along side the water of Circular Quay.

Where Wine Meets the Water

There’s something intoxicating about sipping fine wine by the sea.
At the Sydney Wineries Festival, the harbour breeze carries the perfume of summer, the clink of crystal (actually plastic) glasses blends with the rhythm of buskers in The Rocks, and the skyline creates a stage that even Bordeaux or Tuscany would envy.

The event sprawls infront of the Museum of Contemporary Art, transforming the foreshore into a sensory playground. Cellar doors pop up along the grass, each offering a taste of NSW wines: Orange, Mudgee, Port Macquarie, the Hunter and more. It is some of Australia’s BEST for sure!

This isn’t just a tasting. It’s a journey through the terroirs of NSW, without ever leaving the Quay.

A Showcase of Australia’s Finest

From the crisp mineral whites of De Beaurepaire to the refined méthode traditionnelle sparklings of Cassegrain, and the robust, soulful reds of Glandore, the festival highlights the incredible breadth of Australian winemaking.

You’ll find:

Cool-climate Chardonnay from Orange and Tumbarumba
Elegant Pinot Noir from De Beaurepaire
Earthy, complex Shiraz from the Hunter wineries
Vibrant Tempranillo, Fiano, and Nebbiolo from the new-wave innovators redefining Australian wine! Giddy UP

Each stall tells a story. One of the things I love most about a wine festival is getting to “know” the wine maker!

Each pour holds a philosophy about land, the patience and the passion. The conversations are as rich as the vintages.

The Rocks: Where Heritage Meets the Modern Palate

Wandering The Rocks during festival weekend feels like walking through a living gallery.
The mix of old-world charm and new-world creativity mirrors the evolution of Australian wine itself.

This is wine culture at its most joyful, inclusive and alive.

The Art of the pour

What sets the Sydney Wineries Festival apart isn’t just the setting , it’s the curation.
The festival celebrates wine as art ; every varietal, a palette; every vineyard, a brushstroke. Winemakers aren’t just pouring drinks; they’re sharing their craft, their failures, their triumphs. You leave not just with your palate expanded, but your heart warmed.

Some I have never heard of and kudos to Cassegrain for exploring (and nailing) incredible blends. Please explore their incredible blends as they are smooth and eclectic.

It’s also a moment to reflect on sustainability. the quiet revolution taking place in vineyards across Australia. Many of the participating winemakers practise low-intervention, organic, or regenerative viticulture, proof that excellence and ethics can coexist beautifully. Many of the vineyards commited to low intervention such as Tractorless Winery with Melania and partner with their winery in the Southern Highlands.

A Toast to the City that Never Stops Creating

Sydney’s energy is contagious. One moment, you’re sampling a sparkling Semillon under the sails of the Opera House; the next, you’re dancing barefoot on the grass at First Fleet Park, holding a glass of Hunter Shiraz as the ferries glide past.

The festival caters for collectors, casual sippers, or just someone who loves being outdoors with good company, it’s impossible not to be swept up in the moment.

Raise Your Glass

Sydney’s Wineries Festival isn’t just an event.
It’s a celebration of everything Australia does best; creativity, craftsmanship and conversations! All poured into one unforgettable weekend.

So next time it rolls around, mark the date, gather your people, and make your way to the Rocks in Sydney. Sam xx

PS: please support the above mentioned wineries. They are all local wineries meeting face to face with their customers.

Wine Bar in Sydney – Vini Divini

11/07/202503/11/2025

Wine Time in the Heart of Sydney – Vini Divini

When I need a little time out in Sydney, a pause from the pace, a sip of something special, I head straight to my favourite local wine bar: Vini Divini.

Tucked away like a European secret, this intimate wine bar is a haven for those who appreciate the finer things; great conversation, thoughtful wines and an atmosphere that instantly soothes the soul.

Philippe, Your Wine Whisperer

What makes Vini Divini truly exceptional is the personal touch offered by owner and wine connoisseur, Philippe. Always welcoming, Philippe is more than happy to chat about your palate, preferences, or mood and will recommend something that feels like it was bottled just for you.

Whether you’re a lover of bold reds, fresh minerally whites, or curious about natural or biodynamic wines, he’ll handpick a pour that surprises and delights. Trust him, he has a gift for reading the room (and your taste buds) and that European hospitality attentativeness.

Tip: Don’t be shy. Tell Philippe what you like, and he’ll likely introduce you to something new and unforgettable.

Sip, Savour, Snack

While the star of the show is undoubtedly the wine, Vini Divini also offers a small, refined bar menu that perfectly complements your glass. Expect Mediterranean-inspired light bites such as olives, charcuterie, cheeses, which are all sourced with the same care and finesse as the wine list.

It’s the ideal spot for a solo escape, a spontaneous date night, or an intimate catch-up with friends. Every detail, from the glassware to the playlist, feels curated, yet entirely effortless.

Private Tastings & Events

Looking to host something special?

Vini Divini also curates private events and tastings, offering a boutique experience that’s perfect for birthdays, team gatherings, or elegant celebrations. I am looking forward to helping out over summer with a few events! What a joy it will be.

Philippe will tailor the wine list, the vibe, and the experience to match your group, whether you’re sipping casually or diving into a more structured tasting.

It’s an elegant, understated setting that speaks to true wine lovers and those who are just beginning their journey.

If you’re in Sydney and looking for somewhere warm, relaxed, and a little bit magic, Vini Divini is it.

Vini Divini Wine Bar
vinidivini.com.au

Where wine is poured with passion and every visit feels like a mini escape

Wine Windows, Florence Italy

09/07/202409/07/2024

These super cute nooks or windows are cut into buildings in Florence. In the 16th century they were used for trade, and passing of goods when the plague sieged the city offering people inside the house protection.

Many were sealed over last century but a few are still used as small windows, for decoration or for serving wine.

There are 140 windows over Florence but only a few function as wine windows now days.

It is a pretty simple process. If the window is serving, there will be a dinger bell sitting in the window. Simply ding and a person will appear to take your order.

The offerings are usually Rose, Bianco (white), Rosso (red) or appertif.

They will then ding the bell again to serve your wine and you can pay then, or sometimes after upon returning the glass. You can drink the wine in the street and return the glass when you have finished.

Map to find wine windows, click here.

Be Wooed by San Sebastian

12/10/202212/10/2022

San Sebastian in the Basque Region of Spain is a safe, beautiful part of the world. Renown for its gastronomic experiences, scalloped around a beautiful bay, there is something to find all year round.

Whilst there are many options travellers often become overwhelmed and may miss the beauty and random joyful moments substituting it for stress.

This guide is to remove that stress so you can focus on the day and making this day, this destination on of the best in your lifetime.

This is a suggestion and any order can apply but understand, exercise is often better in the morning (then it is done). Food and wine feels less like a guilty pleasure when exercise has been done.

It is fun to wander around with no commitments and explore.

This is not to steal the serendipitous moments but to give you a fall back plan and one that will make you look in control not lost.

Walk to the Castle

You can see the castle here on top of the hill.

On the hill behind the old town is the Castle. Also known as Castillo of La Mota.

It is on top of the hill surrounded by a big park (Parque de Urgull).

The walk up can be dramatic and step (there are stairs leaving from behind the old town near the boat harbour, or gradual if you follow the boat harbour round past the aquarium and head up.

Just follow your nose – heading up is the main goal and you will find many little tracks.

There is a secret bar that is open in Summer.

Once up the top you will have amazing views of San Sebastian and the surrounding hills.

Alternative options to climbing the hill

These are some other walking options that are more flat terrain for those with injuries or unable to climb a hill.

If climbing is too tricky there are many walks around San Sebastian.

You can head to the left of the bay towards the south and find the amazing art sculptures of Spanish Artist Eduardo Chillida called Peine del Viento. Also a romantic beautiful spot.

Or you can walk around the Parque to Urgull and head over to Zurriola beach and head back along the river with the trees and shade.

2. Pinxos in the Old Part of Town

This gastronomic delight should be on every foodies global tour.

Apparently San Sebastian has more michelin awarded restaurants than anywhere else in the world – but I think their pinxos are the stand out.

There are two famous cheese cake shops here.

Saint Telmos is my favourite has the best foie gras, blood pudding and iberian pork cheeks and grilled octapus.

Tintos (red wines) are awesome everywhere.

3. La Perla

This day spa (thermalogica) water treatment retreat is fantastic.

Right on the beach at Playa De La Concha, this magnificent building has great views from the far infared chairs. If you go between 130 – 4pm you can get a reduced rate for the two hours.

You can hire a towel and everyone has to wear the sexy blue cap.

Hot steam room, hot sauna, multiple spa pools, relaxation zones and a cold plunge pool. Definitely worth it if you like water and day spas. No need for bookings unless during busy season. Click here for more information.

4. Santa Maria Cathedral

This iconic landmark is found in the old city.

It is 3 euros to pass through but worth it if this is the only church you are going to. There is another up near Saint Telmo which is equally breathtaking and of a different era.

5. Ferry trip

For a small fee (7 euros when we went) you can jump on the ferry and go to La Concha. Here you can disembark for exploring, or in summer swimming and a drink at the bar.

Otherwise you can stay on the ferry and do the round trip.

It’s a great way to get a different aspect from the water.

Other activities

There are so many sporting activities to do. Stand Up Paddling, swimming, sailing, bush walking, bike riding and more.

Simply walking along the promenade later in the day is wonderful as buskers line the wide pavement entertaining children and tourists. Grab an icecream and slowly meander long.

There is an art gallery, library with an exhibition hall beneath it, museum, aquarium and more.

It is the perfect place for a weekend or a week. Relax, drift and enjoy.

Luis Canas Bodega (winery) La Rioja

12/10/202212/10/2022

This family run winery Luis Canas Bodega is in the La Rioja region in north Spain. La Rioja is about 80km from Bilboa and has many little villages with boutique hotels.

Some people (especially groups) will often take a cab from Zaragoza or hiring a car will give you independence.

We found this fantastic vineyard in the village of Villabuena de Álava and stayed at Hotel Viura.

You can go for a wine tasting at Luis Canas but I highly recommend a tour.

The vivacious knowledgable Carmen will take you on an exceptional tour, explaining all the grapes grown in the region, some history and finishing on the cusp of the vineyards valley of grape vines.

The cellar was impressive!

With a large production and representing many local wine growers, they are committed to sustainability, integrity and looking after the little farmers.

It is hard to put into perspective the gentle sound that the vines make, the smells that the wine emits and the tastes of the region on your palate. It’s a personal experience that has to be taken by you.

I highly recommend a tour and visit of this vineyard. Book a tour here and find out more.

Hotel Viura La Rioja

12/10/202212/10/2022

This fantastic designer Hotel Viura, in discovered in a small town with 43 wineyards (Bodegas). The Hotel Viura is for that holiday where you don’t want to worry and every detail has been paid attention to and is found between Haro and Logrono.

With a living art gallery in the foyer and public spaces it is eye candy for the art lovers.

A roof top has many chez lounges where groups can catch up, where you can take a wine from the bar or lie back and relax reading a book looking up at mountain ranges in the back ground.

Starting from the car park you can literally turn off the car and grab some grapes. The reception is very art nouveau with English speaking staff.

A bar with friendly staff(full of local wines), a dining room downstairs that serves complimentary breakfast and a night time menu. It is “fine dining” ie smaller meal sizes but tasty.

You can get meals in town but a different standard and on Sundays nearly impossible.

The rooms are all different with their own personalities, views and private bathroom and toiletries.

My favourite part of the hotel was the art works and room top bar… oh and the grapes in the car park.

Click here to book directly.

Laguardia the medieval town in La Rioja

12/10/202212/10/2022

High on a hill and easy to find is the foot traffic only medieval town of Laguardia.

With a centuries old history there is much to see and experience.

I would recommend the bodega and wine tour with cueva DorreTxe. A small family run bodega (winery) in the middle of town.

From the outside…

It costs 5-10 euros per person and includes wine tasting.

It is a short punchy life changing experience.

You walk down a few stories under ground seeing the still in use wine making tools. A bramble bunch that serves as a filter for the fruit from the wine.

The stair well underneath to the cellars

Underneath the cave opens up. Apparently during the Teslars rule there were many wars. These spand from 10th century for 4 centuries.

During this time the women and children were often hiding in the caves. Men would bring food, hunted animals and fruit. At one point all the 325 caves were connected as one tunnel. They were sectioned off in the 18th century and now many of the families have their own cave.

This one is used for wine and entertaining.

The wine is boutique, small in production. One Tinto and one blanco.

They also make the local liquor from blueberries. Perfect as a post meal digestiv.

You can book here or turn up and try your luck.

Vivanco Musea

12/10/202212/10/2022

When my sis mentioned we were going to a wine museum I was a bit like… well how about you go to Vivanco and I will do a wine tasting.

Silly me. The museum is amazing.

With four levels going underneath the ground, an insight into the large underground barrel collection and it’s own wines, the Vivanco Museum is worth it.

In fact it is a must for any wine connoisseur.

Each floor shares a different angle about wine.

One on the history (wine is 8000 years old)!

And about the local region La Rioja.

Aa floor on corks and corkscrews

A floor about pesticides and commercialising wines – all very interesting.

Upstairs is a cafe with a small menu, outside art installations and a wine tasting corner.

Wine tasting flights

The last level has some incredible art by Andy Warhol, Picasso and Sorolla.

I highly recommend a visit to this museum if you are in La Rioja.

La Vieja Bodega, La Rioja Spain

12/10/202212/10/2022

Simply one of the greatest treats to the La Rioja region in the north of Spain is not just the wine but the food.

We are in for an amazing treat at La Vieja Bodega just outside of Haro.

A vineyard and fine dining all in one.

If you go with a large group you can have a wine tasting in their cellar which has the musty smells of yesterday and wines.

Angel, who owns the restaurant with his wife Marion have a fancy selection of some 400 ones at the front of their restaurant.

The menu for the restaurant is stunning as is the food.

You can’t really go wrong and today I order the ratatouille with cod fish and the shoulder of lamb for main course.

It is all delicious, flavoursome and gluten free!

The shoulder of lamb is one of the most tender sweetest well cooked cuts I have ever had.

Desert is a gin and tonic sorbet – it is enough to wake you up yet lure you towards a siesta.

I would love to bring a group of people through the Basque region showing you these amazing gems. The food and the people are warm, hospitable and excellent at their wines and food.

You will need to book in advance here and if you are lucky enough you will get to meet the wonderful duet Angel and Marion. Thank you, we will be back again for sure. x