STONEHOUSE GALLERY, WARRANDYTE

Next, we were driven to the scenic setting of hilly Warrandyte, where we drooled over the indigenous and eclectic art created by local artists at the Stonehouse Gallery.

In 1972, eight potters dedicated to promoting ceramics created this artistrun art gallery and shop. The location has since changed and the new gallery with its stained glass windows is the ideal backdrop for the large variety of exhibits.

The Collection showcases several styles of art grouped by artist. Items range from clothing and other textiles, sculptures to jewellery and paintings. I went completely trigger-happy with my camera with the many beautiful pieces on display.

I now have it down as my go-to place for gifts and special occasions.

Olivigna Restaurant And Pietro Gallo Estate

Saving the best for the last, we arrived at the picturesque Pietro Gallo estate. Famous for its award winning artisanal grappa, liquor and fine Italian dining, we discovered how this famed winery creates its diverse range of liquid gold.

For John and Anna, the owners of the estate and Olivigna restaurant, grappa is more than a tipple. The passion for fresh produce, knowledge of the fine art of distilling grappa, and the management experience of a team that’s been doing business for generations, are key to their success.

Anna offered us a taste of Grappa Al Caffe - a grape spirit with coffee inspired by the Italian classic Caffe Corretto. Aninsider’s tour of the premises followed, which also offered an informative session on the production process by master distiller Nathan Rigby. We tasted some more refined grappa and Limoncello and saw the purposebuilt grappa still, named Scarpone after John’s father.

Next up was a fun pasta making class under the guidance of an experienced Italian chef. Our attempts at making different varieties of pasta were awarded with a sumptuous lunch prepared inhouse, using our freshly, though not expertly made batch of pasta.

Paired with the most amazing Sangiovese from the estate, the meal was exceptional in quality and taste, lulling us into a sense of pure decadence. We could easily have spent the entire afternoon sipping the excellent wine and soaking up the ambience of the private dining room, but sadly it was time to leave.

On the way out from Olivigna, I purchased a bottle of their unique Grappa Al Caffe. I have to admit - I have polished off half of the contents already. The exclusive famil was part of #Explore Manningham - reflection of the artistic diversity and distinctive dining experiences within Manningham city.