Introducing Stuart Dudine, Alkimi Wines (Yarra Valley) to The Wine Loop at Estelle, Sat 28th July lunch

Stuart’s passion for the varieties of the Rhone sprung from his time at Henschke, where he first experienced the qualities of Australian- grown Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre handled with the finesse of the old-world winemaking of France.

Having begun his wine journey in 2005, working vintages in Austria and France, Stuart developed his focus on vineyard characteristics and "basic principles" - fundamental, time-honoured methods to get the most out of his grapes and wine. 

His love for all things Rhone was cemented at Yarra Yering and Mac Forbes Wines. In 2015, he secured a silver medal at the Yarra Valley Wine Show for his 2014 'The Good Earth' Syrah, his first ever wine release into the market under his own label.

His own vineyard came next, and now Rousanne and Marsanne join Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre at the heart of the range - along with a Rosé that takes its form from season to season and regularly sells out on allocation!

The Alkimi name is taken from the phonetic spelling of Alchemy and pays homage to fire, water, air and earth – and the season, the soil and the fruit.

The kitchen has always been Head Chef Val Barrère’s favourite place. Raised in France, Val developed a deep appreciation for food at a young age.

Arriving in Sydney having worked under the tutelage of chef-restaurateur Daniel Boulud in London, Val joined the Pickett & Co team in 2016 after working at Vue de Monde. He took the reigns as Head Chef at the re-imagined Estelle wine bar and restaurant earlier this year.

With just 12 seats at the table, join Stuart and Val in The Wine Loop for a unique tasting and dining experience.

 Link to book here!