We’ve teamed up with the very talented local illustrator Laura Darling for an extra-special tasting that looks at wine from a whole different perspective.

Laura will guide you through a series of timed observational sketches as you draw your way around the store.  Along the way, we’ll pour some delicious wines to sample—think of it like a life drawing class, but with more wine and (hopefully) a lot less nudity!

What to bring: Just a sketchbook and something to draw with. We’ll also have an extra selection of drawing tools on hand for you to try out.

Who is it for? Suitable for all skill levels! Whether you're an accomplished artist or you haven't picked up a pencil since school (an artistic maestro or more of a maestr-oh no!), this is a rare chance to learn something new in a relaxed, sociable setting.

Come for the expert art tuition, stay for the wine talk—and if Laura's guidance doesn't boost your creative confidence, we're pretty sure the wine will!

Quote from Laura:

"I've attended several tastings at Aitken's and I love hearing the stories behind the wine (and tasting it, of course). As an illustrator I see so many great drawing opportunities in the space; the shelves and shelves of bottles, label designs, the industrial architecture, people milling around. In a moment of rare genius I thought, wouldn't it be fun to combine these two activities? Aitken's agreed, so, here we are!"