McLaren Vale winery Alpha Box & Dice will team up with Mismatch Brewing Company for a series of events this long weekend.
On Sunday the cellar door will host the pre-release of Mismatch’s new mid-strength Picnic Ale, currently only available at this event. “Don’t be fooled by the low booze [content],” says brewer Ewan Brewerton (yes, that’s his real name). “It has great flavour, body and aroma. We’ve dry hopped it with Amarillo and Centennial hops, giving it this lovely floral citrus character.”
The new brew was inspired by spring (although Brewerton admits, “You wouldn’t know it’s spring right now.”) and was designed in collaboration with Alpha Box & Dice. “We're both really keen to work together in the future and do further collaborations when our brewery is up and running,” says Brewerton.
Hommus Where the Heart Is will provide the food; handmade falafel and chicken wraps. There will also be wine tastings from AB&D and live music from Delia Obst, Banjo Jackson and Zen Panda.
As the sun sets Young Muscle will DJ for Fun Rays #1, the first in a new series of events from the local music collective. They will be joined by Paradise Loft DJs and Warren Raww. “With each party we are trying to create a new experience; events with a visual and musical atmosphere, along with the food and drink offering,” Young Muscle’s Ashley Wilson says.
“[We] thought it would be great to try something a little unusual with [Alpha Box & Dice] and turn their cellar door upside down.”
Despite the inclement weather this weekend, Wilson promises Sunday’s event is “full steam ahead”. “We're thinking up some interesting ways to counter if rain strikes, but even if it does, it won't be dampening the vibe.”
Monday’s canine-friendly event, Doge Day Afternoon, will be rescheduled but Alpha Box & Dice advises the cellar door will be open for wine and beer tastings.
Alpha Hops & Dice takes place on Sunday October 2 from 10am–5pm. Entry is free. Fun Rays #1: Vineside runs from 4.30pm–9pm. The event is now sold out.
