Stanton & Killeen & The Winemakers of Rutherglen invite you to stray into the Dark Side of Wine from 2-11 August in Rutherglen, Northeast Victoria.

When the last of the sun’s rays smolder over the horizon and the winter moon emerges, the dark arts of Rutherglen will be revealed at the Dark Side of Wine. This series of immersive experiences is a festival for the curious and the bold.

Try your hand at blending aged stocks and experiment with vibrant new vintages at a series of both day and nighttime events. With Muscat and Durif varieties the intensely beating heart of the program, each experience will leave you enriched and enlivened. Enriched by the lore of Rutherglen and its wines and enlivened by the playful curiosity of its winemakers.

Each bottle holding its own secrets, the Dark Side of Wine series of Muscat events will unlock the dark mystery and beauty of this alluring wine, with deep and seductive Durif wines featured throughout the broader program.

Rutherglen is home to an incredibly diverse array of other red and white varieties, all of which will be expressed at the Dark Side of Wine.

Here are the events Stanton & Killeen will be holding over the festival. We hope you can join us at one or two of them!

Fortifieds Demystified Masterclass

Dive into the complexities of fortified wines with Natasha Killeen and Adriaan Foot. Learn about Tawny vs. Port, and barrel-aged vs. bottled-aged wines.

Tuesday 6th August | 2pm - 3.30pm | $60 pp

Hidden Winery Tour with Natasha Killeen:

Join Natasha Killeen as she shares captivating stories from S&K’s 150-year winemaking history. Enjoy special vintages selected from our museum wines.

Wednesday 7th August | 1pm - 2.30pm | $55 pp

Thursday 8th August | 1pm - 2.30pm | $55 pp

Liquid Luxury Home Barrel Workshop:

Learn about home barrel ownership, blending, and care with JP & Sam. Get expert tips for the Liquid Luxury Amateur Wine Show.

Sunday 4th August | 1pm - 3pm | $50 pp

"Deadly Vintage" A Muscat Murder Mystery Evening:

Step into the shadows for a thrilling Muscat Murder Mystery Evening set in 1925. Dress in your finest 1920s attire and navigate our mysterious wine cellars while enjoying canapés, desserts, and drinks.

Friday 9th August | 7pm - 10pm | $120 pp

Secret Speakeasy at Stanton & Killeen:

Discover the secrets of S&K's Speakeasy Bar, enjoy fortified cocktails, and engage in interactive workshops.

Thursday 1st - Sunday 11th August | 12pm - 5pm | $10 pp with optional additions

Purchase tickets here