A new multi-level French-inspired wine and dining venue is opening at the corner of Spring Street and Flinders Lane, overlooking the Treasury Gardens. Vinesmith City Cellar Door will combine a French-inspired bistro, wine bar, wine shop and cellar door, offering a unique blend of fine wine and food in one space.
On arrival, guests are welcomed into a cellar door environment featuring Australian timbers and an impressive array of wines. Expert-led tastings by Vinesmith specialists Yuhan Jiang and Vanessa Crouse offer an immersive way to experience renowned wines from Victorian vineyards like Blue Pyrenees and Glenlofty Estate.
Upstairs, Executive Chef Richard Hayes’ bistro menu presents French-inspired dishes with fresh local ingredients.
Seasonal offerings include Portarlington mussels in vol-au-vent, kingfish crudo with nashi pear, and sirloin steak with Café de Paris butter. There are also Australian twists, like Kangaroo Tartare and lamb shoulder. For those seeking lighter options, the wine bar serves up duck terrine with onion chutney and smoked scallops.
To finish, dessert options include a rich Basque cheesecake and classic tarte tatin. The wine list, featuring both local and French selections, is curated to complement the menu, allowing guests to enjoy by the glass, sample in flights, or purchase bottles to take home.
“At 1 Flinders Lane, we offer a new introduction to some of the finest wines in the country, some of their French comparables, and a flexible approach to tasting, dining and celebrating,” said Roger Richmond-Smith, Vinesmith chairman.
“Our wine list includes both the classics such as famous Pyrenees reds, sparklings and whites as well as some of our winemakers’ innovations, which are limited run and occasionally only available to our wine club members. Such as our award-winning Glenlofty Marsanne Roussanne,” said Richmond-Smith.
This latest addition to Melbourne’s dining scene offers a distinct experience for wine and food lovers alike.
Vinesmith City Cellar Door opens on 15 November 2024 at 1 Flinders Street Melbourne. It will be open Tuesdays-Saturdays for lunch, dinner or a glass of wine. For reservations please visit: www.vinesmith.com.au.
