The world of food and wine is a busy one, it is amazing the way that Australians have embraced the urge to travel with the idea of exploring food and wine. I find myself almost constantly on the road in search of great wine and food and the month of June got a great head start after we hosted the very successful Great Canberra Wine Dinner at Peppers Gallery at the end of May. We had such great food and so many great wines, all from the one great region, it made me proud to see it all come to life. Now I am writing to you from the Champagne region in France, where I am preparing a big tasting report on all the great producers large and small, from Pol Roger to Krug to Bollinger, all the way to the tiny cultish jewels like Anselme Selosse, I’m tasting them all.
I traveled through Italy on the way to Champagne and was reminded of just how well they lead the way with the most beautifully simple, produce-driven food on the planet. The way the Italians literally worship their produce is always inspiring. And when I am back we are heading to the Southern Highlands and one of my absolute favourite destinations on the Peppers Gourmet Food Trail. I am salivating at the thought of Executive Chef, Warrick Brook’s legendary menu and I have chosen the best of the region’s wines to accompany each course. The last dinner there was a riot, we had a celebrated Australian artist (he’s a local resident) along as a guest, he whipped a table of guys and girls about a quarter of his age into an absolute frenzy. It was one of those classic nights where the stars of great food, wine and people all aligned to create an enchanting experience. The Southern Highlands region is rich with amazing produce and Warrick’s connection to the place, the produce and the people that grow and rear it really gets to the heart of the Peppers Gourmet Food Trail experience. I’ve seen the menu and we are in for a very memorable night of great food and great wine. The scene is set! Cheers and see you at Peppers!
Nick Stock
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Join Nick Stock on for a four course degustation with matched wines at Hickory’s Restaurant and Bar followed by the Endeavour Brewers lunch at Katers Restaurant. Stay at Peppers Craigieburn from $349 per night including breakfast. Book now >