Sydney’s iconic Bennelong have not only made a huge change to their beloved wine menu, but a big statement about the strength and vitality of the Australian wine industry.
Switching from their wide-reaching wine program, to a menu that is completely Australian focused (except for the Champagne), the destination restaurant has committed itself to showcasing the best of homegrown wines, from some of the country’s most legendary labels through to wines from lesser-known boutiques.
Just some examples include a 1991 Leo Buring Leonay Riesling; 2010 Bass Phillip Reserve Pinot Noir; 1998 Mount Pleasant Maurice O’Shea Shiraz; and 1977 Lindemans Vintage Port.
“Bennelong is housed within the most iconic building in Australia and is a showcase for the very best of Australian produce, it is only fitting that we continue this celebration of Australia through the wine list”, said Bennelong’s Head Sommelier Seamus Brandt, who has offered up example pairings to match the restaurant’s a la carte menu to some of his selections.
Celebrating how far the Australian wine industry has come, and where it’s at right now, the wine program lists over 320 labels. See below for example pairings and take note for the next time you head along to the quintessential Sydney dining experience.
XO scallops, crispy eggplant, silken tofu, smoked bacon, XO crackers
2017 Frankland Estate ‘Smith Cullum’ Riesling, Frankland River, Western Australia
Dory cutlet, white turnip, salted lime aioli, green herbs & anchovy
2013 Mount Mary ‘Triolet’ Sauvignon Blanc Blend, Yarra Valley, Victoria
Neenish tart, raspberry ripple ice cream
2008 Coates, Touriga Port, Langhorne Creek, South Australia
Feature image by Brett Stephens.
