Words by Andrew Kemp

Images Courtesy of Edenvale 

We’ve all had some unpleasant surprises, haven’t we? Like when the “Poisson et frites Anglais tradionelle” on the restaurant menu turned out to just be fish & chips. Or when the premium coffee at the new “must visit” spot just doesn’t match up to your regular hole-in-the-wall’s brew.

Well, I enjoy good wine and so often an expensive or fancy-labelled bottle doesn’t live up to expectations. This was definitely not the case with their latest addition – the Edenvale Premium Reserve range.

Edenvale have been using cutting-edge advances to make alcohol-removed wines since 2006, and their wines have been a regular presence on the shelves of most good retailers for years. They recently upped their game with the introduction of three premium wines: two sparkling wines – a Shiraz and a Chardonnay-based Blanc de Blanc, alongside a still Pinot Noir.

Having never tried an alcohol-removed wine before, I approached this tasting with a healthy dose of scepticism, only to be very pleasantly surprised. Where I expected glorified grape juice, there was a very real sense of cultivar integrity. The Blanc de Blanc had a fresh and engaging citrus and blossom aroma, with some distinct green apple flavour. It has a dry finish, looks beautiful in the glass and is a very refreshing aperitif.

The standout for me was the Premium Reserve Sparkling Shiraz. It was honestly hard to believe that this was alcohol-removed wine. It kept me coming back for a sniff and a taste time and again. Twice, after emptying my glass and thinking: “oh, I really shouldn’t have more”, I remembered that I most certainly could! This is a lovely, guilt-free treat; I’ve already ordered a case for the summer.

The Premium Reserve Pinot Noir is light and accessible, with the nose being a bit shy at first. It was slightly petulant, with lots of red fruit flavour. This is not going to replace your big Barossa Shiraz, but that’s not what it tries to do. This wine is sure to become a staple for the “designated drivers”!

Having read a number of the testimonials on the Edenvale website, I am more persuaded than ever about the importance of the alcohol-removed wine category in the market. After hearing stories of so many who have had to stop drinking wine, but miss it as a social ritual or just miss the taste, I am grateful for what Edenvale is doing. And I suspect my respect will keep growing with each glass of that Sparkling Shiraz heading my way.

Edenvale Beverages is a privately owned company established in 2006 and founded on the philosophy of delivering innovative, profitable, high quality beverage brands to consumers worldwide. Edenvale has been developed to offer consumers a superior quality, alcohol removed Australian wine beverage of choice. Underpinning the innovative nature of our brand development philosophy is a dedication to embrace and research the latest technologies to ensure continual product enhancement. As a result of this dedication, the Edenvale range has adopted a leadership position within the Australian drinks sector. Edenvale provides a healthy alternative, high in antioxidants and low in calories. Further information: www.edenvale.com.au

*Edenvale is currently sold through stockists and their online websites, such as Dan Murphy’s, Coles, Woolworths and IGA. You can also buy it online at www.shopedenvale.com.au.

**Andrew Kemp is a Sydney based writer and self-confessed wine enthusiast.

**Thank you to Evil Twin PR for the collaboration.

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Connie Lambeth

The Australia Times News

Editor GOURMET – Food/Wine/Events

www.theaustraliatimes.com/news

connie.lambeth@theaustraliatimes.com.au

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tatgourmetmag/

Words by Andrew Kemp Images Courtesy of Edenvale  We’ve all had some unpleasant surprises, haven’t we?... https://theaustraliatimes.com/?p=52157

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Saké Restaurant & Bar welcomes Spring…

Saké Restaurant & Bar is celebrating the arrival of spring and the stunning sakura, or cherry blossom, with an exclusive Champagne dinner and special cocktails available throughout September.

Saké The Rocks in Sydney, Saké Eagle Street Pier in Brisbane and Saké Hamer Hall in Melbourne are also ushering in spring with stunning floral displays in each bar in a breathtaking ode to the sakura.

Guests can enjoy cherry blossom soirées beneath canopies of pink petals and choose from five cocktails inspired by these fabled Japanese flowers. Cherry Blossom cocktails are also available at Saké Double Bay and Saké Flinders Lane.

• In Bloom ($22) blends sakura-infused Roku gin, lychee liqueur, lime juice, lychees, cherry and sakura flower syrup
• Signature Cherry ($23) is a decadent combination of vodka, Sakura Vermouth and cherry shrub
• Japanese Cobbler ($21) combines Shiso Umeshu, Ketel One Citroen, sakura syrup, yuzu juice and cherry blossom water
• Blushing Blossom ($22) mixes whisky, Heering Cherry Liqueur, Choya Uji Green Tea Umeshu, honey water, yuzu juice, passionfruit and egg white
• Red Kuchibiru ($22) combines shochu kome with cherry shrub and glühweinmix

Cherry Blossom Champagne dinners ($290pp) will be held at Saké Eagle Street Pier (Tuesday, 11 September), Saké Hamer Hall (Wednesday, 12 September) and Saké The Rocks (Tuesday, 18 September) from 6.30pm. The menu is a collaboration of Saké’s Head Chefs who each contributed a dish to the exquisite six-course menu.

On Arrival
NV Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial

Snow Crab Sunomono
Vinegared Okinawan Mozuku Seaweed, Cucumber and Caviar
NV Veuve Clicquot Rosé

Sashimi
Garfish Sashimi – Shiso Ume White Soy
Seared Scampi – Nikiri Soy, Chives, Tobiko, Shaved Foie Gras
Uni Ikura – Nori Crisp, Kizami Wasabi Sea Salt
NV Ruinart Rosé

Truffle Cheese Pork Mille-Feuille Katsu
Balsamic Sauce, Watercress, Red Onion, Baby Shiso
2009 Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Rosé

Steamed King Salmon
Salmon Roe, Potato and Cabbage
2008 Veuve Clicquot Vintage Rosé

Duck Breast
Blueberry and Beetroot Purée, Seasonal Greens with Plum Vinaigrette and Duck Jus
2005 Dom Perignon Rosé

Sakura Tarte
Sakura Infused Apple and Shiso Ice Cream

Saké The Rocks Head Chef Chi Ung Kim created the King Salmon dish, which he describes as: “a traditional, simple Japanese dish that balances the slightly smoky and fattiness of the fish with the savouriness of a dashi, soy, vinegar-based sauce.”

Saké Hamer Hall Head Chef Shimpei Hatanaka created the sashimi course, which he says heroes diverse, seasonal and locally-caught seafood. “I usually use tuna, salmon and kingfish for sashimi, but I wanted to use something different,” Shimpei says. “Garfish is a winter fish but I’ve noticed we have good garfish from Melbourne and Sydney during spring as well. Sea urchin is good, too. We’ll source them from Tasmania or Victoria.”

**Information and Images Courtesy of Rockpool Dining Group/Rachel Lebihan

Connie Lambeth

The Australia Times News

Editor GOURMET – Food/Wine/Events

theaustraliatimes.com/news

literallyconnie@bigpond.com

connie.lambeth@theaustraliatimes.com.au

Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/tatgourmetmag

WHITE HORSE MEDIA LAUNCH – GREY GOOSE VODKA

The Albion Hotel in South Melbourne was the setting for the recent launch of the highly touted Grey Goose Vodka.

Grey Goose Vodka is crafted from single-origin French ingredients, ‘traceable from field to bottle for a naturally rich and full-bodied taste’. https://www.greygoose.com

The mix of a glam young crowd, including a bunch of celebrities, ensured there was plenty of action, with photographer Sam Tabone, there to capture the memories!

The Albion Hotel

Address: 146 Evans St, Port Melbourne VIC 3207

Phone: (03) 9646 1991

Menu: hotelalbion.com.au

**Photos by Sam Tabone / provided courtesy of Helen Reizer HRPR

Connie Lambeth

The Australia Times News

Editor GOURMET – Food/Wine/Events

theaustraliatimes.com/news

connie.lambeth@theaustraliatimes.com.au

Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/tatgourmetmag

Additional Pics from the Launch of Grey Goose Vodka at The Albion…

Packed by Peter Rowland Launch Party – July 2018

Words by Keti Kezunovic

Photos Courtesy of Andrew Lee – Additional Images Supplied by Peter Rowland/Helen Reizer HRPR

Proving true to their very modern company tagline of #peterlikestoparty, the event started off with plenty of champagne and lively conversation!

The idea behind ‘Packed by Peter Rowland’ is to provide a flexible catering solution for modern entertainers.

The catering comes presented in neat little white boxes so there is no need to transfer to platters – they are ready to serve – perfect for those short on time!

The thoughtfully curated collection presented at the launch event included individual serves of favourites such as bircher muesli, Caesar salad and sweet decadent desserts such as chocolate-lined lemon tart and brownie platters.

The must try of the bunch are the chicken sandwich triangles which have been a hit for the business since its conception 56 years ago.

Group Executive Head Chef, Matthew Haigh, describes this new venture as ‘a natural extension of the business’s mantra of being ‘innovative, cutting edge and remaining on the front foot, I envisage marrying quality seasonal produce, key ingredients and our collective expertise with technique to maximise flavours. We want our food to create lingering memories,’ he adds.

And that they did…I picked up the gift bag on the way out, filled with goodies and a ‘lil’ bit more of that decadent dessert!

*Keti was a guest of Helen Reizer HRPR

(co-owner @29_thapartment / @pawnandco / @storyvillemelbourne )

Connie Lambeth

The Australia Times News

Editor GOURMET – Food/Wine/Events

theaustraliatimes.com/news

connie.lambeth@theaustraliatimes.com.au

Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/tatgourmetmag

Additional Pics from ‘Packed by Peter Rowland’ Launch Party…

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FOOD, WINE AND GOOD TIMES RETURN TO EAST MALVERN East Malvern Food & Wine Festival Back for 3rd year! The 3rd annual East Malvern Food & Wine Festival will return to East Malvern’s picturesque Central Park, boasting a vast range of exquisite wineries from all across Victoria on Sunday 18 November 2018, from 10:30am to 5:30pm. Last year saw over 3,000 + Melbourne food and wine lovers flock to East Malvern, to enjoy over 100 wines, craft beers, and ciders, as well as a curated selection of local and regional culinary exhibitors. Featuring more than 20 Victorian wine regions including Bendigo, Heathcote, Pyrenees, Yarra Valley, Rutherglen and Sutton Range the festival will also host a craft beer and cider producer alley featuring Coldstream Brewery, Yulli’s Brew and Bad Shepherd Brewing Co. For the cocktail enthusiasts, unique distillers Mr Blacks and Four Pillars will be available along with refreshing Aperol Spritz partnered with a delicious central-European inspired antipasto tasting menu by Riserva Wine Store. Bar. Dining head chef Andrew Marasco at the Central Park Aperol Spritz outdoor chill lounge area and bar. That’s not all, satisfy your hunger with a feast from local Melbourne favourite food trucks, local favourite restaurants and pop-up restaurant stalls like Richmond Oysters & Seafood Tapas, Nepal Dining, Assaggi Italani and more. Peter Norman OAM, Chairman of Presenting Sponsor East Malvern Community Bank Branch of the Bendigo Bank said, “The focus of Community Banks is to enhance and support the local Community. Sponsorship of the Festival is an example of our focus in action.” With some of the best Victorian produce on offer at the festival, don’t forget to bring your shopping basket to stock up on some locally produced cheeses, gourmet condiments, bespoke Christmas puddings and other festive season fare from artisanal producers such as Canning Free Range Butchery, Goldfields Farmhouse Cheese, Cider Tonic, Red Rock Olives, In2Tea, Boondero Walnuts, and many more. We haven’t forgotten the kids either, with a full day of family and children’s entertainment planned, including live music performances on the main stage and magician master classes presented by the local Magic School of Confidence. There will be fun for the whole family, even something for the fur kids, treat them to some gourmet doggie morsels from the Canine Wellness Truck. Delicious award winning ice cream by Timboon Fine Ice Cream, celebrating Victorian producers in the heart of East Malvern. So come on down and enjoy a unique and intimate experience, meet the passionate winemakers and brewers, and learn about, taste and take home their premium award-winning wines and ales! This is a free public event. All ages welcome in the picturesque Central Park. Wine tasting glasses and ticket packages are available starting at $20. EVENT DETAILS When: Sunday 18 November 2018, 10:30am – 5:30pm What: East Malvern Wine and Food Festival Where: Central Park, Corner of Wattle Tree and Burke Roads, East Malvern More information:  www.eastmalvernfoodandwine.melbourne Social Media: www.facebook.com/eastmalvernfoodandwine #EMFWfestival @emfwfestival The 3rd annual East Malvern Food and Wine Festival 2018 is proudly brought to you by the Festival Producer Margot Natoli with the support of our Presenting Partner the East Malvern Community Bank Branch Bendigo Bank together with sponsorship partners, Volvo Cars South Yarra, Aperol Spritz together with the in-kind support of the Glenferrie Road Malvern Business Association, the Stonnington Leader and the City of Stonnington.

**Information and Images Courtesy of East Malvern Food and Wine Festival/Supplied by Cardinal Spin PR – Matt Fraser

Connie Lambeth

The Australia Times News

Editor GOURMET – Food/Wine/Events

theaustraliatimes.com/news

literallyconnie@bigpond.com

connie.lambeth@theaustraliatimes.com.au

Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/tatgourmetmag

Bavarian restaurants to donate all profits on one day to drought-stricken farmers

Rockpool Dining Group’s Bavarian restaurants are digging deep to assist drought-affected farmers and will donate all profits from 16 venues in New South Wales and Queensland on Sunday, 26 August to support drought relief.

The Bavarian and The Bavarian Beerhaüs restaurants in the drought-affected states of NSW and Qld will host Raise A Fork For Our Farmers drought relief fundraisers on the last Sunday in August. All profits made from the day’s trade will be donated to Aussie Helpers, which supports Australian farming families in need of assistance.

The Raise A Fork For Our Farmers campaign is part of an broader commitment by Rockpool Dining Group to support farmers struggling to cope with devastating drought conditions, with more fundraising to follow.

Australian farmers are at the frontline of record dry conditions that have plunged the entire state of NSW and over 50 percent of Queensland into drought. Rockpool Dining Group’s affinity with and reliance on farmers and local producers underscores its commitment to the cause.

Raise A Fork For Our Farmers drought relief fundraisers will be held at the following locations:

New South Wales

• The Bavarian Beerhaüs: York Street, Sydney
• The Bavarian: Bondi Beach, Castle Hill, Chatswood, Entertainment Quarter, Manly, Miranda, Parramatta, Penrith, Rouse Hill and World Square

Queensland

• The Bavarian Beerhaüs: Bowen Hills, Brisbane
• The Bavarian: Broadbeach, Chermside, Eagle Street Pier and Toowoomba

Diners are encouraged to bring friends and families along to a participating restaurant for lunch, dinner or simply a drink on Sunday, 26 August, safe in the knowledge that their custom will help farmers in need.

Rockpool Dining Group Chief Executive Officer Thomas Pash said Rockpool owed much to the farming community and the Raise A Fork For Our Farmers campaign was the Group’s first step in drought assistance.”

“Agriculture is the backbone of Australia and the hospitality industry,” Mr Pash said. “Farmers are our producers, suppliers, friends and peers and we want to support them and give back to our rural communities in a substantial and meaningful way.”

Rockpool Dining Group Culinary Director Neil Perry said: “We hope to see full community support for this great initiative at each of the Bavarian restaurants on Sunday, 26 August so we can make a significant contribution to the nation’s drought relief effort.”

Make online bookings here or call 02 9259 5600.

Connie Lambeth

The Australia Times News

Editor GOURMET – Food/Wine/Events

theaustraliatimes.com/news

literallyconnie@bigpond.com

connie.lambeth@theaustraliatimes.com.au

Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/tatgourmetmag

Wine-soaked Berries with Baked Brie

Ingredients:

½ cup Strawberries

¼ cup Blackberries

¼ cup Raspberries

2 tspn Brown Sugar

Edenvale Pinot Noir

1 Brie cheese wheel

1 stick French bread

Method:

1. Combine the Pinot Noir, berries and brown sugar in a small saucepan, using enough wine to just cover the berries.
2. Bring to the boil for 15 minutes or until the wine has thickened, stirring occasionally. Take off heat and cool down for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 170 degrees. Slice French bread and place in oven for approximately 20 minutes or until golden-brown.
4. While your bread is baking, take the Brie cheese wheel out of its packaging and place in oven for 10 minutes or until it has melted in the middle.
5. When Brie has melted, place on a cheese board and scoop the berries on top. Surround the cheese with French bread and enjoy!

**Recipe and Image Courtesy of Edenvale/Supplied by Evil Twin PR

 EDENVALE WINES

Offering sophisticated alternatives for those who enjoy wine without the side effects, Edenvale is excited to announce the launch of their Premium Reserve range. Crafted from carefully selected, premium quality fruit sourced from the fine wine regions of South Australian, Edenvale’s Premium Reserve range delivers the ultimate wine experience for all wine lovers – without the effects of alcohol.

Through meticulous production processes, the Premium Reserve range maintains all the flavour, characteristics and varietal integrity of traditional blends, and includes a Sparkling Shiraz, Sparkling Blanc De Blanc, and a classic Pinot Noir. Unlike many other alcohol removed alternatives in the market, Edenvale wines are actually wines, made from varietal wine grapes, using traditional wine-making methods. In creating their premium range, Edenvale removes the alcohol at the final stage of the wine-making process, leaving behind the true characteristics of each wine.

With roughly half the calories of standard wine, you’ll not only wake up without the hangover, but you’ll also be able to have a great night out, drinking premium wines, but without ruining your diet, or the morning after.

Premium Reserve Sparkling Shiraz

Classically Australian, the Premium Reserve Sparkling Shiraz has a tantalising blackberry and currant fruit aromas. Hints of oak and smoky, exotic spices are complemented by a palate that is round and full. The sparkling bead combines with rich dark fruit flavours and chocolate notes, making for a luscious indulgence. Persistent rich, spicy flavours, yet finishing crisp and clean. Enjoy with roast meats, spicy dishes and any number of cheese styles.

Premium Reserve Sparkling Blanc De Blanc

Predominantly Chardonnay-based, delicious white peach fruit flavours come through with notes of citrus, apricot, apple and complex oak. The Premium Reserve Sparkling Blanc de Blanc has a beautiful, clean, fresh palate with good length and wonderful balance. Enjoy with a variety of foods, especially oysters, smoked salmon, creamy cheeses and canapés.

Premium Reserve Pinot Noir

The “flagship” of Edenvale’s Reserve range, the Pinot Noir has attractive ripe red and dark fruit characters, hints of earthiness and savoury complexity. The palate has fine interwoven tannins with perfectly ripe sweet cherry and mulberry fruit flavours, delicate and yet intense in the mouth. Clean and rounded with a delightful juicy finish. Enjoy with a wide variety of foods, especially duck, seared salmon or tuna, roast white meats and goats cheese.

Offering a sophisticated alcohol removed alternative for those who still wish to sip on an adult beverage, Edenvale’s range of wines are also perfect for anyone who still want to enjoy the social aspect of having a drink – without having a drink.

Edenvale’s Premium Reserve range is available now.

RRP:         $14.99 per 750ml bottle

Stockists:     https://edenvale.com.au/

**Information and Images Courtesy of Edenvale/Evil Twin PR

Edenvale is Australia’s leading alcohol removed wine brand. Experts in the field of alcohol reduction and removal, Edenvale is an Australian owned company dedicated to developing and delivering healthy lifestyle beverages to consumers worldwide, and is committed to ongoing research to ensure continual product improvement and nutritional enhancement. Proudly made from only the best selected South Eastern Australian wine grapes, Edenvale premium alcohol removed wines contain less than half the calories of standard wine and are rich in antioxidants. Innovative alcohol extraction technology is used to delicately remove the alcohol, preserving varietal integrity. The International Standard for a non-intoxicating beverage is less than 0.5% Alc/Vol. Edenvale alcohol removed wines contain approximately 0.2 – 0.3% Alc/Vol, which is well below the International Standard, and a level similar to that found in natural fruit juices. Other wines in the Edenvale range include Sparkling Rose, Sauvignon Blanc, Rose and Riesling.