City Wine is the third annual presentation by CMS Events in their Wine & Food Events WA series. Taking place in the pop-up venue created at Urban Orchard (part of the Perth Cultural Centre) the event lets you enjoy the regional tastes of WA in a city setting on Friday, June 5, and Saturday, June 6.
Buying locally has become more popular in recent years, and with many West Australians enjoying a good glass of red or white, and a boutique event like City Wine is a great chance to taste the produce of local wineries before purchasing a few bottles for your own cellar (keeping in mind this event focuses on wines best suited to the cooler months of the year). You can also enjoy great culinary outings (mainly WA based, but with quality selections from outside the state) so be sure to leave room for snacks or a meal at the event.
CMS Events Event Director Richard Campbell says one of the best things about this kind of pop up event is supporting WA producers and discovering wines that may not be easily found on your local wine shop shelf. “There is always a new wine you are not familiar with. There is also the vibe. Wine, food, and sharing it with friends can be some of the best memories we have. Celebrating our good wine and food is important, but so is getting out and doing something uniquely WA too.”
So does he think West Australians have a nose for good wine? “I think they do, but it is an educational thing. Most people are aware we produce some fantastic wines and punch above our weight when it comes to quality. But there are entry levels to get there. Most new wine drinkers tend to go for a sweeter style, but will get more selective as their palate grows. It is the growth of this palate that is encouraged at events such as City Wine. WA produce some great value wines and I think we are getting better at understanding the styles and regionality.”
In regards to the entertainment offered at the event, Richard says CMS always promote with acts that are a little more laidback and contemporary. “We’re fortunate with many new and established acts in Perth, and we are using both this year. To start each day we have Riley Pearce, a WAM award nominated artist. His own alternative-folk style has organically grown from his changing surroundings. From a childhood spent in Holland, Melbourne, and Perth, he somehow manages to make you feel like you’re in all three places at once.
“We then have the Proof Trio rounding out each night. They are WAAPA graduates and have been entertaining audiences at corporate events in Perth and overseas for almost a decade. Over the years they’ve supported well-known Australian acts including Guy Sebastian, Hunters and Collectors, Dami Im, The Choirboys, Daryl Braithwaite, Jon Stevens and Dragon.”
Tickets are available from wineandfood.com.au or at the gate.
GILLIAN O’MEAGHER
