Special guests get first look at Subiaco wine festival

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  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, October 20th 2025 at 21:37 GMT by Perth Now

Unwined: Subiaco Socials from Festival Launch at Below and Above

The Subiaco community gathered for a vibrant celebration of local wine and food at the launch of the new “Unwined” social series, held as part of the long‑running Below and Above festival. The event, which opened on a warm Saturday evening, was hosted in Subiaco’s beloved community hall and drew an enthusiastic crowd of wine lovers, foodies and locals eager to experience a fresh take on Perth’s burgeoning wine scene.

A Fresh Concept for a Classic Festival

Below and Above has been a staple of the Subiaco calendar for the past decade, showcasing regional produce, local artists and, most notably, a rotating selection of Western Australian wines. The addition of Unwined is described by organisers as a “social, interactive wine experience” that invites attendees to explore the full spectrum of the region’s offerings—from boutique cellar door releases to mainstream labels—within a relaxed, communal setting. The name itself is a playful nod to the idea of “unwinding” after a long week while “un‑bundling” the stories behind each bottle.

What Happened at the Launch

The night kicked off with a welcome from founder and event producer, Sarah McLeod, who highlighted the partnership with over 30 local wineries, the Subiaco Food & Wine Society, and the community’s own craft breweries. “We wanted to create a space where people could taste, learn, and connect,” McLeod told reporters. “Unwined is about celebrating the diversity of Perth’s wine culture and giving our community a chance to discover new favorites.”

The venue was divided into four tasting stations, each representing a distinct theme: “Old Vines,” “Modern Innovations,” “Culinary Pairings,” and “International Impressions.” Attendees sampled from 40 bottles, many of which were available for purchase on the spot. A special “below” booth featured small‑batch releases that had previously been exclusive to Subiaco’s own wine bar, while the “above” station showcased international varietals brought in by the organisers for the first time.

In addition to the tastings, a live acoustic set by local musician Ben Turner kept the energy high, while a food truck lineup—featuring fresh charcuterie, artisan cheeses, and a rotating selection of grilled dishes—provided complementary bites. An interactive “Wine 101” corner, staffed by sommeliers from two participating wineries, offered a quick crash course in grape varieties, tasting techniques, and food‑wine pairing principles.

Community Engagement and Future Plans

The launch also featured a “Story of the Bottle” segment, in which winemakers shared anecdotes about their vineyards and the journey from grape to glass. One highlight came from the family‑owned Willow Creek Winery, whose 2022 vintage drew particular praise for its earthy undertones and silky texture. Another moment was a collaborative tasting led by chef Marco Silva, who paired the wines with locally sourced produce, illustrating how each wine complements Perth’s culinary landscape.

Attendees expressed enthusiastic support for the new Unwined series. “It feels like a family gathering,” said 34‑year‑old marketing consultant James Lee. “I’ve tasted some fantastic wines I never would have found otherwise. The atmosphere is friendly and the staff are knowledgeable.” Social media chatter mirrored this sentiment, with the event’s hashtag #UnwinedSubiaco trending throughout the weekend.

Looking ahead, McLeod announced that Unwined will be a monthly event, with plans to expand beyond Subiaco to other Perth suburbs. “We’re excited to bring this experience to more people and to continue building a community that celebrates wine, food, and local talent,” she said.

How to Join the Next Unwined

The next Unwined event is scheduled for the first Saturday of next month at the same venue. Tickets cost $25 per person, which includes a guided tasting of ten bottles, a curated cheese plate, and a complimentary souvenir wine glass. Early‑bird discounts are available for those who book before the end of the month. For more information, including a full schedule of events and a list of participating wineries, visit the Subiaco Community Centre’s official website or follow the festival’s Instagram and Facebook pages linked below.

Follow the Unwined journey on Instagram: @unwined.subiaco

Like the festival’s Facebook page: Subiaco Below & Above

Explore more at Subiaco Community Centre: www.subiacocommunitycentre.org.au

A Toast to the Future

The launch of Unwined has already proven to be a hit, and the community is buzzing with anticipation for what lies ahead. By blending wine tasting with storytelling, local gastronomy, and community music, the event has carved a unique niche within Perth’s cultural calendar. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, Unwined promises a relaxed, engaging, and richly rewarding experience that will leave you looking forward to the next sip, the next bite, and the next gathering.