Globally renowned, Australian winemaker Bird in Hand hosted an exclusive dinner at Sydney’s La Riviera Dining in October 2023 to introduce special guests to new and archival wine releases as part of the brand’s 25th anniversary celebrations. 

Warmly welcomed by Chris Kontos, Bird in Hand’s Brand Manager, guests included Karl and Jasmine Stefanovic, Sylvia Jeffreys, Sarah Abo, artist and former Sneaky Sound System frontman Daimon Downey, fashion designers Rebecca Vallance, Johnny Schembri, and Luke Sales and Anna Plunkett of Romance Was Born.

Andrew Nugent, who co-founded the Adelaide Hills winery with wife Susie Nugent in 1997, introduced the selection of wines being poured throughout the evening, from the méthode traditionnelle ‘O’ Sparkling, 2022 Nero D’Avola and 2021 Nest Egg Chardonnay to the exquisite 2014 Nest Egg Shiraz and 2013 Tribute Maree Elizabeth Cabernet Sauvignon.

Seated at two, long and conversation-filled tables, guests were treated to a delectable menu – including Western Australian scampi grilled with vanilla and tarragon butter, classic Steak frites and the restaurant’s signature tiramisu – expertly paired with spectacular and award-winning Bird in Hand wines. 

The space was styled by renowned event florist Grandiflora, with exquisite sculptural displays of white calla lilies and pale-hued poppies adorning tabletops between the gentle flicker of taper candles – a laidback and intimate atmosphere against which to conclude the evening with The Bird single malt whiskey.

Photography: Jake Scevola