Dark Side of Wine 2025
BONFIRES. STARGAZING. DEGUSTATIONS. MURDER MYSTERY. SECRET CINEMAS
FOR THE SECOND YEAR RUNNING,
WINEMAKERS OF RUTHERGLEN PRESENT THIS AMAZING EVENT
FRIDAY 8 AUGUST - SUNDAY 17 AUGUST 2025
After recent “Best Wine Themed Event” accolades at the Wine Communicators of Australia Awards 2024, The Winemakers of Rutherglen invite you to experience Rutherglen by night, for the 2nd annual Dark Side of Wine.
The Winemakers of Rutherglen invite you to step into the shadows and uncover the mystery, magic, and mastery behind one of Australia’s most storied wine regions, as Dark Side of Wine returns from August 8 to 17, 2025.
Over ten immersive days and nights, Rutherglen’s vignerons and winemakers open their cellars, stories, and secrets for an unforgettable celebration of wine, history, and sensory exploration. Beneath starlit skies and beside glowing fires, discover a new generation of winemakers breathing fresh life into 160 years of fortified and full-bodied tradition.
Whether you’re unravelling the code to find the secret cinema, cracking clues in a Muscat Murder Mystery, dancing in historic Rutherglen wineries coming alive with performers, or uncovering ancient barrels in candlelit cask rooms, each experience invites you deeper into the lore of this legendary region. Taste house-style Muscats straight from the source, blend your own bold red, and share in family tales passed down through generations.
This year’s program expands the boundaries of storytelling—from secret speakeasys and stargazing to brunches, progressive dinners and trivia nights.
Every glass tells a story. Every bottle holds a secret. And every moment at Dark Side of Wine 2025 promises revelation.
Join us. Raise a glass. And discover the depth, character, and charm of Rutherglen like never before.
Here at Chambers
- Behind the Winery Curtains -
Sat 8th Aug 2025
1 - 4pm
Uncover the Chambers family stories, with a behind-the-scenes history tour. With exclusive
tastings direct from the ancient casks, step behind the curtains and
discover the secrets of Muscat, Muscadelle and Fortified Durif.
Sixth generation winemaker, Stephen Chambers, shares over 160 years of knowledge.
Soak up the atmosphere among the hundred-year-old casks. Welcome wines on arrival, local bite sized delights throughout the afternoon, by the fires, with a Mulled wine in hand and the sweet acoustic sounds of local, Tilly Pinn.
Taste the finished product among Candlelight and history in the old cask room.
Come unravel the mysteries of Chambers World Renowned Muscats and Fortified Wines.
Limited to 45pp - 3 Tours of 15pp
$100 per head
*Plus booking fee
Friday 15th Aug 2025
6.30pm
Legacy Dinner
‘A Collaboration Food & Wine Experience’
Chambers Rosewood Vineyards - De Bortoli Rutherglen Estate
- Anderson Winery - Andrew Buller Wines
As a part of the 'Dark Side of Wine' festival in Rutherglen, Andrew Buller Wines, Anderson Wines, Chambers Rosewood Vineyards and De Bortoli Rutherglen Estate have saved you a seat at our table!
Join four of our region’s devoted wine-making families as we present an unmissable celebration of community, creativity and incredible wine.
Indulge in a decadent four-course menu, expertly paired with hand-selected wines that showcase the unique character of each wine-making family.
Hear our stories and share in our passion.