Simon Freeman
I fell in love with the Grampians whilst working at The Royal Mail Hotel in Dunkeld. When the amazing Dan Hunter left the kitchens there to set-up his own restaurant, Brae, we happily moved down to the Otways to be part of what would become the highlight of my career. After five years running the floor there, and with the impending arrival of our first child, we decided to relocate our family back up to the Grampians. I felt this was a good opportunity to step away from the restaurant scene on a high note and racked my brains for what I could do instead.
I had always found it strange when visiting Halls Gap in the heart of the Grampians wine region, how little representation there was for the local wines, especially for the smaller producers. I envisaged a space where the local wine scene could be showcased in all its glory. But I also wanted to be able to continue showcasing the producers from around the country and around the world who I had been serving over the years in restaurants. Some of these producers have become close friends, some of the wines remind of special times, and I wanted an outlet for all the stories that are in my head.
Anyone who knows me well, knows I am very open when it comes to drink, so you will also find a selection of my favourite craft beers, whiskies, gins, sake, mezcal and most other things delicious and alcoholic!