Australian winemaker Handpicked Wines has opened its second city cellar door, launching in Melbourne’s high-end 80 Collins precinct.

Born in the Mornington Peninsula, Handpicked produces wines from various vineyards across the country including the Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley, Barossa Valley and Tasmania.

Joining the popular Sydney cellar door, the new, three-level Melbourne venue will showcase more than 50 wines across its retail shop and wine bar.

Chief winemaker Peter Dillon said the Melbourne opening is a particularly exciting step for the brand.

“What’s unique is the fact that our passion for making great wines is not limited to one region or style,” he said.

“We are lucky to work with the best regions and varietals in the country, which allow us to express the wine’s style true to its character.

“With that being said, our production team and facility are based in Victoria, so Victorian wine regions and the Melbourne community are very special to us – which is why we are excited by this new location.”

Dedicated space for events

Guests can experience a casual tasting in one of the ‘tasting pods’ within the retail area, while groups can utilise the experience room, designed for wine flights and education.

“As well as curated wine tastings, we have wine flights on offer, barrel tastings and regular wine workshops held in the dedicated events space and led by our stellar team, said operations manager Andrew Robinson.

The entire venue seats up to 120 guests or can host up to 350 in cocktail style and the smaller experience room can host 60 standing or 22 guests seated.

Open seven days a week, Handpicked Wines Melbourne serves up light breakfast, lunch and supper with indoor and outdoor seating available.

The menu focusses on cheeses and charcuterie from some of the world’s greatest producers, alongside deli plates and seasonal offerings.