2 People – Premium Wine Tasting Experience and 2-Course Lunch

A Private Wine & Lunch Experience in Canberra That Truly Delivers

Imagine spending about two and a half hours in a relaxed, welcoming space where every sip of wine and every bite of food feels carefully crafted. That’s exactly what you get with the 2 People – Premium Wine Tasting and 2-Course Lunch tour at Contentious Character in the heart of Canberra’s Fyshwick district. For $183.28 per person, this private experience offers a well-balanced mix of tasting, learning, and enjoying regional flavors, perfect for couples or small groups looking for something intimate and memorable.

What we love most about this tour? First, it features an indulgent tasting of 8 boutique wines paired with 8 thoughtfully selected tapas, making each sip and bite a true celebration of craftsmanship. Second, the 2-course lunch—complete with a glass of wine for each—really elevates the experience from just tasting to a full-on culinary adventure. The cozy, indoor or outdoor setting—with heaters available—makes it enjoyable no matter the weather.

One consideration? The non-refundable policy means you should be sure of your plans before booking, so this might not be the best choice if your schedule is uncertain. But for those who value curated, private experiences, it’s hard to beat.

This experience suits wine lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting to celebrate a special occasion in an authentic, relaxed setting. If you appreciate regional ingredients and personalized attention, this tour is likely to become a highlight of your trip to Canberra.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Only your group participates, offering personalized attention.
• Quality of Wines: Eight boutique wines paired with eight tapas provide a comprehensive tasting.
• Culinary Appeal: A two-course meal with a glass of wine for each amplifies the tasting experience.
• Flexible Indoor/Outdoor Setting: Heaters are provided for comfort during cooler months.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Located in Fyshwick’s Dairy Road Precinct, away from touristy crowds.
• Booking in Advance: Most guests book about a week prior, highlighting its popularity.

Discovering Contentious Character: A Genuine Canberra Gem

The Contentious Character winery offers a taste of the city’s burgeoning boutique wine scene combined with regional cuisine, all in a cozy, welcoming setting. The tour begins at their building on Dairy Road in Fyshwick, a lively industrial area known for creative businesses and artisan producers. Here, the focus is on small-batch, handcrafted wines that reflect the land and the winemakers’ passion.

When we say “private,” we mean just your party, which makes for a relaxed, tailored experience. The eight wines you taste are carefully curated—expect a variety that might include reds, whites, or rosés, each matched with an appropriate tapas to highlight its characteristics.

What’s Included and How It Works

The experience starts with the most indulgent wine tasting: eight wines paired with eight tapas. This isn’t just a quick sip-and-go; it’s a chance to learn about the wines’ backgrounds, production methods, and regional nuances from knowledgeable staff, perhaps even from your guide, if present. The reviews mention making the most of the lower cellar area—a cozy setting ideal for tastings—where you can learn about the making of each wine in an intimate environment.

After the tasting, you move to the two-course lunch, which includes two mains, a shared side dish, a dessert, and a glass of wine for each person. The menu is crafted from regional ingredients, and the pairing elevates the meal beyond typical pub fare. Whether you choose to sit inside in the warm, inviting space or outside in the fresh air, the setting complements the experience.

Authenticity and Attention to Detail

One review highlights that “learning about the wines and making of them was just so lovely,” emphasizing the educational aspect. Others mention yummy, filling meals and desserts that are worth saving room for, suggesting that the food portion sizes satisfy even hearty appetites.

Timing and Logistics

The entire experience is designed to last approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, giving ample time for tasting, eating, and relaxing. Since the tour is booked about 7 days in advance, it’s clear that demand is steady, and booking ahead is wise.

The experience’s non-refundable policy ensures that only committed guests make plans, but it also underscores the curated, premium nature of the tour.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, wine enthusiasts eager to explore boutique varieties, or small groups seeking an authentic, intimate experience. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate regional ingredients and are curious about how wines are made.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

Compared to wine tastings that might just involve a few samples and no food, this experience offers a comprehensive tasting with food, making it feel like a true culinary journey. The inclusion of eight wines and a full meal at this price point is reasonable, especially given the private setting and personalized attention. Think of it as a relaxing, educational, and tasty way to spend an afternoon in Canberra.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: The Winery in Fyshwick

Your journey begins at Contentious Character’s building, where you’ll be greeted by friendly staff eager to share their passion. The lower cellar area—highlighted in a review—serves as a cozy venue, perfect for a private tasting. It’s a space that fosters learning and conversation, away from the bustling city streets.

The Wine Tasting: Eight Wines, Eight Tapas

Expect an indulgent tasting that balances reds, whites, and possibly rosés, although the exact varieties aren’t specified. The pairing with tapas is designed to enhance each wine’s flavor, making for an educational tasting rather than just sampling. The focus is on boutique wines, which means you’re likely to encounter unique, limited-production bottles you might not find elsewhere.

The tasting is leisurely, allowing you to ask questions and really appreciate the nuances—a feature often appreciated by reviews, with one noting “learning about the wines and making of them was just so lovely.”

The Meal: A Two-Course Culinary Highlight

After the tasting, you move on to a two-course meal, which typically includes two mains, a shared side, a dessert, and a glass of wine for each person. The food is crafted from the finest regional ingredients, bringing a taste of local produce to your plate. Reviewers describe the lunch as “so yummy and filling,” with dessert that is “you need to read more”—probably worth the small indulgence.

Whether you sit inside or outside—where heaters are provided—the atmosphere remains relaxed and personable. The focus is on comfort and quality, making it suitable for a laid-back afternoon.

The End of the Tour

The experience wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you with a full stomach and a head full of wine knowledge.

Practical Tips for Future Visitors

• Book at least a week in advance to secure your preferred date, especially during busy periods.
• Prepare to enjoy regional wines and local cuisine—a focus on regional ingredients means you’ll taste the land in every bite and sip.
• Dress comfortably, especially if you choose to sit outside—though heaters are available in cooler months.
• Remember, this is a private tour, so it’s perfect for celebrating or enjoying a quiet, personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This private wine tasting and lunch experience at Contentious Character offers a rare combination of personalized service, regional authenticity, and culinary delight. It’s perfect for those who value intimate settings and want to learn about boutique wines while enjoying regional flavors in a relaxed atmosphere. The quality of wines and food, combined with the educational component, makes it a worthwhile splurge, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable taste of Canberra.

If you’re looking for a chance to enjoy well-curated wines paired with regional cuisine without the rush of large tours or commercial wineries, this experience might just be your best bet. It’s simple, authentic, and designed for true appreciation—exactly what a good wine and food adventure should be.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates for a more personalized experience.

How many wines will I taste?
You will taste eight boutique wines during the tasting session.

Can I choose indoor or outdoor seating?
Yes, you can opt to sit inside or outside, with heaters available for the cooler months.

What’s included in the meal?
A two-course meal with two mains, one shared side dish, one dessert, and a glass of wine for each person.

Is this experience suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Since it involves wine tasting and alcohol consumption, it’s best suited for adults who wish to enjoy wine and food.

How far in advance should I book?
Most guests book about 7 days ahead, so planning early is recommended.

What is the cancellation policy?
The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

Can I bring service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

Is the experience accessible?
Details aren’t specified, but the main venue is located in a commercial building, so accessibility may depend on specific needs.

What if it rains or the weather is cold?
You can enjoy the experience inside or outside, with heaters provided for outdoor seating during cooler months.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this intimate, culinary wine adventure at Contentious Character in Canberra fits your travel plans—whether you’re celebrating, exploring, or simply indulging in some regional flavors.