Over the last fifteen years, Canberra wines have really taken off. Not just within the capital, but across Australia. With three successive vintages producing truly stunning wines, we’ve definitely got something to celebrate.

Recognising the range and quality of the local industry is the central premise of The Canberra Wine House. Situated within the Dickson Tradies’, the gorgeous little space is just another way that the club promotes and supports the region.

The venue itself is sumptuous and rich – much like the 2014 Long Rail Gully Shiraz that is available to enjoy by the glass. Dark ceilings curve over the chequered tile floor, and leather couches (both long and single-seaters), provide the perfect environment to take a virtual tour of Canberra’s wineries.

Speaking of such delights, there are seventeen local drops available by the glass. Spread across sparkling, red and white, it’s the perfect way to acquaint yourself with the local options, or to introduce a visitor to the delights of Canberra District Wines. Simply wander up to the bar and have a taste before you buy. The team has true passion for the wines on offer, and will happily tell you the story behind every glass.

We would grab a glass of the 2015 Summerhill Road Riesling and wander out into the cute little courtyard that lies just behind the bar. The space feels a world away from the busy Dickson precinct, and has the feel of visiting at a cellar door. There seems no better way to spend an afternoon than sitting around the wine barrels and sharing a bottle with friends.

Back inside, the obvious choice is to slump into one of the leather armchairs and to spend some time attempting to solve all the problems of the world. Armed with bottle of 2013 Mount Majura Tempranillo, you’re off to a good start, however, for sustenance, there’s plenty to assist in keeping the mind focused.

To assist, The Canberra Wine House has a range of local produce platters that are perfect to pick at while you continue to converse. For larger groups, the three-tiered platter brings all manner of delights with fruit, cheese from Southern NSW, Lost River smoked meats, and Lindsey & Edmunds chocolates.

For those sitting on their own for a well-deserved drink after work, the accompanying tapas plates of Homeleigh Grove olives or feta (from the Cheese Project) make for the perfect snack.

Suffice to say, The Canberra Wine House presents the perfect way to enjoy a great range of delicious local wines within a superb setting. We can’t think of a better way to showcase the efforts of the region’s hard-working winegrowers.