Everything that’s simply sumptuous and delectable came together under one roof for ‘The Good Food and Wine Festival’ recently held at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre. Food and Wine was celebrated with new experiences that included emerging restaurants as well as our favourites sharing delicious spreads of appetizers to wet the tastebuds all washed down with craft beers, signature wines and refreshing gin botanicals.
The Australian Masters of Food; Maggie Beer, Matt Moran and Miguel Maestre amongst others came to share with us tips and tricks to perfecting our culinary skills at home.
Maggie Beer
‘Maggie has written 10 books in total. The first being Maggie’s Farm, followed by Maggie’s Orchard and Cooking with Verjuice. She then collaborated with Stephanie Alexander and chronicled their Italian cooking school experiences in Stephanie and Maggie’s Tuscan Cookbook which has been translated into 5 languages. Her fifth book, Maggie’s Table, won the Best Regional Cook Book in English in 2001, and then against all other languages, replicated its success in the Gourmand World Cook Book Awards in Perigord, France. In 2003, Maggie’s Table was also awarded the Australian Food Media Award for Best Hardcover Recipe Book’
Matt Moran – Food philosophy
‘At the heart of every one of Matt’s endeavours lies a passion for fresh, seasonal produce. This philosophy is showcased in his award-winning contemporary Australian menus that emphasise seasonal ingredients, balanced flavours and premium-quality produce.
Matt is a pioneer in Australia of the ‘paddock to plate’ philosophy and a firm believer in the importance of consumers being connected to the source of their food. Both Chiswick and Chiswick at the Gallery have a kitchen garden that the chefs frequent to pick fresh greens, garnishes, fruit and vegetables each day.
If it’s out of season, it’s not on the menu. Matt also loves to support inspirational local and regional producers, growers and farmers—each with their own unique stories, that he believes makes eating so much more special.
This seed was planted early for Matt, who spent his childhood on a farm, where a commitment to the land, love of food and seasonal, local produce were instilled in him’
Miguel Maestre
‘Having worked for many years in various kitchens around the world, Miguel Maestre is one talented Spaniard who has made Sydney his home. Born in Murcia in the south of Spain, his love for food was pre-determined from a young age. Miguel’s passion for food and life is infectious, and he has developed a talent for incorporating Spanish ingredients and cooking styles into his Australian menus’
Dining Pop ups
Dining Popups were popular amongst family and friends giving patrons an opportunity to have the ultimate master class experience as part of the Citibank dining program.
Ever wondered how each Champagne differs from the next?
Emperor will take you on a fascinating journey into the effervescent and wonderful world of Champagne.
Food & Wine goes beyond simply eating and drinking, food and wine has the ability to bring family and friends together whether it’s cooking together as a family, sitting by the fire on a cold winter night breaking bread with a delicious bottle of vino or celebrating with a b.b.q on a warm summers night. Food creates memories!
Editor in Chief – Melinda Sullivan
Photography – Sam Tabone
