- Introduction
- Good To Know
- Exploring the Experience
- The Venue: An Urban Winery in Fyshwick
- The Format: A Focused 1-Hour Session
- The Wines: 12 Carefully Chosen Selections
- The Food: Artisanal Tapas Paired Perfectly
- The Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly
- The Atmosphere and Views
- Value for Money
- Practical Considerations
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQs
- More Wine Tours in Canberra
- More Food & Drink Tours in Canberra
- More Tour Reviews in Canberra
- Looking for something different? Other Canberra activities we've written about
Introduction

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Canberra’s wine scene, the Indulgence Wine Tasting with Matched Elements by Contentious Character offers an experience that combines excellent wines with thoughtfully curated food pairings. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a refined, intimate tasting that’s perfect for those wanting to uncover local flavors without leaving the city.
What makes this tasting stand out? First, the quality of the wines—a dozen carefully selected varieties that tell a story with each sip. Second, the artisanal tapas designed to complement the wines, elevating the experience beyond just drinking. And third, the friendly, expert guidance from knowledgeable hosts who bring passion and insight to each pour.
One thing to keep in mind is the duration—just about an hour—which makes it a perfect short activity for a quick culinary escape or a part of a larger day in Canberra. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples, or anyone seeking a sophisticated taste adventure in an accessible and relaxed setting.
Good To Know
- Intimate, private experience tailored for your group only, providing personalized attention.
- Twelve carefully curated wines paired with artisan tapas to enhance flavor profiles.
- Located in Fyshwick, an easy-to-find urban winery with a cozy yet stylish atmosphere.
- Cost-effective at just under $100 per person, offering good value for quality wine and food pairing.
- Flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
- Excellent reviews highlight the food, wine, and friendly service, despite some minor logistical hiccups.
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Exploring the Experience

The Venue: An Urban Winery in Fyshwick
The tour begins at Contentious Character, an urban winery situated at 4/1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick. The location is convenient for locals and visitors alike, offering a relaxed yet stylish setting. One reviewer mentioned that finding the property was a bit tricky, so arriving a few minutes early might save you some stress. The winery’s ambiance is often described as welcoming, with a modern aesthetic that invites you to settle in and focus on the tasting.
The Format: A Focused 1-Hour Session
This experience is designed to be concise, lasting about an hour. It’s a perfect fit if you’re looking for a quick yet immersive tasting, or if you want to include it as part of a broader day exploring Canberra. The tour is private, so your group will have the host’s full attention, allowing for a more personalized experience.
The Wines: 12 Carefully Chosen Selections
The core of this tour is the twelve wines—ranging from local favorites to more adventurous options. While the specific varieties aren’t listed, the reviews and descriptions suggest that each wine is selected for its quality and story. Guests can expect to explore different styles, each with its own aroma and flavor profile, making it a great opportunity to learn about what makes Canberra wines unique.
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The Food: Artisanal Tapas Paired Perfectly
What truly sets this tasting apart is the curated food pairing. Twelve tapas are crafted to match each wine, heightening the tasting experience. The reviews praise the quality and thoughtfulness of the offerings, describing them as “excellent” and “delectable.” This careful pairing helps to bring out the best in each wine, allowing your palate to appreciate the nuances—whether it’s a subtle hint of fruit or a complex finish.
The Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly
Although specific names aren’t provided, reviews highlight the guides’ passion and expertise. One reviewer mentioned Tony as their tasting guide, who took time to explain each wine, making the experience both educational and engaging. Expect hosts to share insights about the wines’ origins, production, and pairing choices, adding depth to your tasting.
The Atmosphere and Views
While the primary setting is an urban winery, the overall vibe is described as relaxed and welcoming. The tasting bar faces north and overlooks grapevines and the beautiful Wamboin area, creating a pleasing backdrop to your experience. This visual element enhances the tasting, making it more than just about the drinks and food.
Value for Money

At $93.24 per person, this experience offers a good balance of quality and affordability. Considering the twelve wines and a matched tapas platter, plus the personalized guidance, it’s quite reasonable for what you’re getting. Reviews have noted the excellence of the food and wine, making it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a refined, intimate tasting without the hefty price tag of a winery tour outside the city.
Practical Considerations
The experience is available with mobile tickets, making for easy booking and entry. Cancellations are flexible—free if canceled at least 24 hours in advance—so you can plan with confidence. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, which makes it accessible for a variety of guests.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This tasting is best suited for wine lovers eager to explore local options in a relaxed setting. It also appeals to foodies who enjoy artisanal pairings or couples seeking a romantic, intimate activity. The short duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited time in Canberra or as part of a multi-activity day.
If you appreciate personalized service and a guided experience that balances education with enjoyment, this tour will hit the mark. It’s perfect for those wanting to learn about Canberra wines without the pressure of a large group or lengthy tour.
The Sum Up

The Indulgence Wine Tasting with Matched Elements in Canberra offers a well-rounded, high-quality experience for those wanting a taste of local wines paired with delicious tapas. You’ll enjoy a curated selection of twelve wines, each thoughtfully matched to artisanal bites—an excellent way to deepen your appreciation for the region’s winemaking talent.
The intimate setting, knowledgeable guides, and visual backdrop make it a memorable activity, especially for couples and small groups looking to indulge for an hour. While finding the location might require a bit of attention, the overall experience justifies the effort, providing good value for money.
This tour suits travelers who value quality over quantity, those keen to learn about wine, and anyone seeking a stylish, relaxed activity that fits neatly into a day exploring Canberra’s culinary and wine scene.
FAQs

Is this experience suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate as it’s designed to be accessible and is private for your group.
How long does the tasting last?
The experience lasts approximately one hour, making it a quick yet engaging activity.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Contentious Character, located at 4/1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick.
Can I cancel the booking if needed?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.
Is there a guide or host during the tasting?
Yes, knowledgeable hosts guide you through each wine and pairing, sharing insights and answering questions.
How many wines will I taste?
You will sample twelve different wines, each paired with artisan tapas.
What is the price per person?
The cost is $93.24 per person, offering a solid value considering the quality and curated experience.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted during the experience.
This tasting provides an engaging and authentic look at Canberra’s wine scene—perfect for those seeking a combination of education, relaxation, and culinary delight.
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