Mingle: #HEARTY PARTY

Winter has arrived. You need a good wine to help warm yourself up. You want something local, but you’re not sure what? Enter #HEARTYPARTY.

The first Friday of winter brought together talented winemakers, showcasing their wares in the midst of the action at Adelaide Central Market. An offer of free tastings and free food attracted those in the know (thanks Facebook, Twitter) and curious bystanders alike.

Proudly showing off their home grown products were Ducks in a Row, Vinteloper, La Linea, Mitolo, Solita, Arete, 919, Oliver's Taranga, Madeleines, Running with Bulls, Woodstock and Western Australia's Capel Vale.

We arrived, perused the crowd and quickly bustled our way towards the front of the queue. After sipping our way through some delicious varieties and blends, we were eagerly offered a taste of some food on the go, hearty paella – with a Tempernillo to match, in keeping with Spain of course. Seating was limited so all hands were on deck to juggle food and wine.

We were big fans of the 919 Shiraz which Michelle fittingly describes as cherry ripe in a glass.

Great promotional event and a fitting way to welcome in winter. A happy red wine buzz left flowing gently behind us.

See: Bowerbird Bazaar

Friday night in the city, Michelle and I headed to Queen’s theatre to check out the Bowerbird Bazaar. The bazaar provides a platform for both members of the interested public and local industry associates to peruse the latest in design wares from over 75 local and interstate artists. We arrived just before 7pm and it was absolutely packed!

After paying our $2 admission fee we quickly made our way to the nearest drink stand and sorted ourselves out with a local brew from the Brewboys themselves. With beer in hand, we set off to explore the plethora of goodies on offer.

Enthusiastic jewellery designer Greg Mann uses recycled cutlery and collector's spoons to make some weird and wonderful pieces. I have seen him before at the Rose Street Artist's market in Fitzroy, Melbourne but was pleased to see his South Australiana collection on show.

The standard of beth-emily’s illustrations were incredible.

Gorgeous softies at herbert & friends. Complete with a little description of each little character’s personality and interests.
Back in her home town of Adelaide, Sydney based Jen of South for the summer, showed off her delightfully awesome headbands. Colour to brighten anyone's day!

We had already made dinner plans for later in the evening but there were plenty of tempting food options available. I have been hearing only good things about Red Door Bakery and by the looks of how empty their pie warmer was looking so early in the evening all signs lead some promising adventures in pastry in the very near future..

I was a little disappointed about the proportion of local South Australian stalls compared to the vast array of interstate producers but there was certainly quality if not quantity. Launching their local product at the bazaar was Mrs. Fairweather's Bicycle Emporium. A unique brand of recycled, reclaimed and restored bikes.

The market style set up offers a relaxed environment for all to wonder, see, touch and interact with the makers behind the products. The bazaar is running today and tomorrow. Go now. And be sure to leave room for dessert!

Queen's Theatre in Playhouse Lane
6 – 8th May & 28th – 30th October 2011

Public Entry $2, children free
Friday 4 - 9pm | Saturday 10 - 5pm | Sunday 10 - 4pm