Have you ever wondered just what’s involved in mastering the mystic art of winemaking? Well, this was your chance to learn from the experts and create your very own cabernet blend under the watchful eyes of Balgownie Estate’s chief winemaker Mark Lane and wine writer and judge, Peter Bourne.

 

 To kick-start the fun-filled evening at Melbourne’s Park Hyatt Hotel, guests were welcomed by Gourmet Traveller WINE’s editor Judy Sarris before enjoying a lively glass of Balgownie NV Cuvee Brut and delicious canapés.

 Balgownie Estate then introduced four regal reds: a cabernet franc, two cabernets and a cabernet merlot – top drops from which each winemaking team of four people will mix, match and create their own special blend.  The rules of the game and nuances of each variety were explained by the judges before the teams of budding oenophiles attempted to craft up to six different blends during the allocated time. Armed with tasting notes, measuring tools and with a thirst to be crowned ‘Champion Winemakers’, it’s was sure to be a keen contest.

 The winning team judged to have created the perfect blend had their standalone vintage bottled by Balgownie Estate and sent to their home address.