Friday, 9 July 2021

Every Friday night, the generous folk of The Fruitful Pursuit bring one of their favourite winemakers to The Olivia Hotel, where they will pour wines and chat by the open fire.

It is a perfect winter knock-off for those looking to relax into their weekend, and this week’s edition will be no exception.

On the bill for the night is Konpira Maru, the winery that TFP founder James Hopkins describes as “one of the true underdogs of Australian wine”.

“They make fun wines from a variety of unexpected regions in Queensland and around Victoria,” he says.

“It’s a bizarre approach. It almost gives me a headache considering the logistics of the operation; sourcing fruit from all these obscure spots across two states.

“But when you consider the style they’re going for, it really works a charm.”

There will be six wines on offer: a 2021 dolcetto and chardonnay pet nat, 2021 pinot gris, 2021 gewürztraminer, 2020 pinot gris and gewürztraminer, a 2021 field blend (riesling, pinot gris and gewürztraminer), and 2020 shiraz, which will be poured from magnum for the fun of it.

Each ticket to Heartwarmer guarantees you to a tasting of the above wines, as well as a toastie lovingly designed for the occasion.

This week’s toastie will feature aged cheddar, dill pickle and sweet pickled onion on sourdough.

It’s a pretty good way to spend $20 on a Friday night.

There are two sessions to choose from, 6pm and 7pm, and you can book via the website.