The Blocks
Eat, drink and dance like a freak
March 19,2012
Yes, yes, we’ve seen our share of pop-up bars around Sydney, but this one’s a tad different. First off, it’s massive. Secondly, it’s trés swish. Foremostly, it’s free to get in and admire the beautiful people and palatial space. Sigh, if only the alcohol was gratis as well.
Get your wine-supping buttocks to The Blocks, at the Harbour’s edge at the end of Pier 2/3 in Walsh Bay. Make your suavest entrance or best sashay into the warehouse wharf space – it’s all roughly laid wood floor slats, neon signs and sculptures, thick wood beams and ultra-high ceilings. The dramatically lit, artsy space is the creation of so-hot-right-now London designers, Studio Toogood (whose clients include Alexander McQueen and Hermes), as part of an immersive experience for Penfolds wines.
Around the room are various drinks stations and servers, providing Penfolds bin, reserve and specialty wines, from Koonunga Hill riesling to reserve chardonnays or their Bin 23 Adelaide Hills pinot noir. There are also wine cocktails, adding the likes of Lillet and gin to help you get your frick on faster. And to soak it all up, enjoy creative nibbles by Magill Estate chef Jock Zonfrillo.
But before you choose what to quoff, head over to the geometric wooden totems and have a sniff. They’re each set out with a different scent, so choose the one you like best and then find out which wine style it represents: aromatic whites, chardonnay, red blends, regional reds or shiraz. Alas, your nose doesn’t lead to cheap pours of Grange (but if you discover any, call us, pronto).
Our favourite bit? The Faders – DJs Milly Gattegno and Suhana Lye – who are as easy on the eyes as they are on the ears, and a whole lotta fun. Expect old-school hip-hop, random ’90s tunes and anything else that make you want to dance like a fool in front of random strangers.
Where: Pier 2/3, Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay, Sydney
When: until 5 Apr | Wednesday – Friday 4pm to 11pm, Saturday – Sunday 1pm to 11pm
Price: Free entry
Details: theblockslive.com

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