New Crush

Overview

UPDATE Wednesday, April 6: The format for New Crush has changed slightly and the event will now run across one extended session, from 12–6pm on April 9. The following article has been updated to reflect this. For more details, see the website.

It's no secret that in the drinks department, Victoria knows what's what, churning out a whole stack of top-notch sips, both boozy and alcohol-free. But in case you needed a reminder, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival is hosting a party dedicated to showcasing the state's latest and greatest drops.

Across one glorious session at the Queen Victoria Market on Saturday, April 9 (12–6pm), New Crush will see you sipping your way through hundreds of the freshest homegrown bevs, while enjoying snacks, tunes and a bumping dance floor.

There'll be liquid offerings to tempt all palates, poured across five dedicated zones: wine, spirits, beer, cider and 'nolo' — booze-free or low-alcohol — drinks.

Get acquainted with new brews from the likes of Bodriggy, Stomping Ground, Tallboy & Moose and Molly Rose; and sate your cider cravings with drops from Napoleone and Fin. Vinous offerings come courtesy of favourites including Kerri Greens, Rob Dolan and Dal Zotto; while distilleries like Patient Wolf, Starward and Jimmy Rum will be offering a taste of the local spirits scene.

You'll also be able to dabble in a range of tasting paddles, score surprises from a lucky dip tinny bar, and level-up your skills and knowledge at the pop-up Sip School.

Tickets come in at $40, which gets you entry, plus one tasting at each of the five drink zones. Further eats and drinks are available to purchase on the day.

Charlie Hawks

Images: Charlie Hawks