Milton Wine Bar, one of Melbourne’s top spots for wine lovers, is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
Located in Malvern, Milton Wine has been a favourite among locals and visitors alike, and its recent updates are sure to impress everyone. They’re unveiling a stunning new look and an exciting wood-fired menu.
A Fresh New Look
To mark its milestone anniversary, Milton Wine Bar has undergone a significant makeover. The expanded courtyard dining area now features an open kitchen complete with a wood-fired oven. The new design elements include sophisticated lighting, linen-dressed tables, and timber panelling, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This space comfortably seats up to 40 diners, making it ideal for both intimate gatherings and larger groups.
The front bar retains its original charm and iconic wall of wine. Additionally, a Private Dining Room offers an exclusive setting for up to 12 guests. This room is perfect for special occasions and private celebrations, adding another layer of versatility to the venue.
An Exciting Wood-Fired Menu
Milton’s menu has been revitalised under the expertise of group executive chef Charley Snadden-Wilson (formerly of Etta, Embla, and Town Mouse) and head chef Tane Flanagan (formerly of Matilda Bay Brewery and Capitano). The new offerings include a range of pizzas and snack plates, all expertly crafted in the wood-fired oven.
Menu highlights include Skull Island prawns with garlic butter and woodfired flatbread, smoked leeks with hazelnut and ricotta, and smoked kingfish with green olive and pepper. The pizza selection stands out with options like a Hawaiian pizza with hot honey and a Mushroom pizza featuring smoked shiitakes, herb pesto, and comte cream. The dough, made from a mix of 00, semolina, and wholewheat flours, is crisp, bready, and easily digestible.
For dessert, diners can enjoy a rotating selection of local and imported cheeses, accompanied by quince and lavosh, or indulge in a burnt coffee panna cotta with date caramel and chocolate cremeux.
A Commitment to Quality Wine
Milton’s impressive wine list has also seen an upgrade. The 400-strong bottle list now includes an extensive reserve section, featuring rare and intriguing back vintage finds. These wines are presented in a leather-bound list, inviting guests to explore and discover new favourites.
Director Lyndon Kubis reflects on Milton’s journey, noting the significant changes in Malvern’s hospitality scene since the bar’s opening in 2014. He recalls the original mission of providing access to wines from beloved producers without the need to travel to Fitzroy. Today, Milton continues to champion independent and innovative wine producers, staying true to its roots while embracing the future.
Celebrating a Decade
To celebrate its 10-year anniversary, Milton Wine Bar is hosting a special weekend event from 2-4 August. The celebration will feature a 2014 vintage takeover, offering guests the chance to enjoy an array of by-the-glass selections from this standout year. Guests are also invited to bring their own 2014 bottles with no corkage fee.
Venue manager Harrison Young expresses excitement for the upcoming festivities, stating, “We’re throwing a party to celebrate our journey and all the people who have made Milton great. We can’t wait to open some fantastic bottles from 2014 and toast to many more years of good times ahead!”
Reflecting on a Decade
Since its inception in 2014, Milton Wine Bar has opened over 121,000 bottles of wine, poured nearly 730,000 glasses, and hosted 322 winemaker events, masterclasses, and tastings. It has also become known for its Melbourne Bitter 1er Cru (aka Chateau Abbotsford), with over 5,200 long necks enjoyed by patrons.
Milton Wine Bar’s evolution over the past decade is a testament to its dedication to quality and community. The refreshed look and menu ensure it remains a beloved local spot for years to come.
