NewActon is bringing Cellar Door to the city

Posted on 16 August, 2018

Exploring the wineries around Canberra is one of our favourite weekend activities.

But sometimes, as much as we’d like to be kicking back among the vines with a glass in hand, life gets in the way. That’s where NewActon’s weekly local wine and produce market, Cellar Door, comes in.

Thanks to Dionysus, who manage the cultural program at NewActon, and the Canberra District Wine Association, Cellar Door is a regular weekend market that offers the (fermented) fruits of the Canberra region in a convenient city location.

After the successful launch of Canberra Wine Week 2017 in the NewActon courtyard, the brains behind the event realised they were onto something.

“[At the launch event] everyone loved being able to access the region’s winemakers and their wines all in one spot, not to mention the great soul vinyl DJs and the iconic location,” explains Michael Liu of Dionysus.

“Moving forward, we continued holding these tasting events every few months and they continued to grow. We realised that there was a real passion and demand for the region’s produce.”

Every Saturday afternoon, Cellar Door showcases a rotating roster of Canberra region wineries curated by the Canberra District Wine Association. With its intimate set up, Cellar Door is a great chance to learn more about your favourite tipple and the people who make it.

The winemakers are also regularly accompanied by other local producers selling treats like fresh fruit and veg, chocolate, books, arts and crafts.

“There is always something new to try and buy. The only staple stall we have is Choku Bai Jo, the farmer direct outlet, because who doesn’t need delicious and fresh fruit and veg every week!”

The event also offers a $12 souvenir tasting glass which allows guests to taste all the different wines and spirits on offer. But if you weren’t already sold on the wine, the atmosphere itself is pretty special.

“It’s in one of Canberra’s most instagrammed locations, Nishi Grand Stair, and is perfectly complemented by classic soul vinyls courtesy of DJs from Capital City Soul Club. We’ve had hundreds of attendees at every single market.”

Check out the Cellar Door Facebook page for all the details about which stallholders will be attending each week, as well as upcoming events like the launch of Fireside Festival on Saturday 18 August.

Combine a visit to Cellar Door with a movie at Palace Electric and dinner at Monster Kitchen, and you’ve got a perfect Saturday without even leaving the city limits.

the essentials 

What: Cellar Door
When: Every Saturday, 2 pm to 5 pm
Where: Nishi Grand Staircase, NewActon
Cost: Free entry

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