"Pop Up" stores, stalls, concepts...and wineries!

Just when one is feeling little foot sore, weary and somewhat liverish from the never-ending round of festivals, concerts, and events Melbourne throws at its residents and visitors alike at this time of year, up pops a "Pop Up" with a brew that is guaranteed to put a bit of a spring in even the most fallen of arches.  Melbourne's love affair with the perfect coffee has received a shot in the arm so to speak, with a "Pop Up" coffee experience right in the heart of the city.  Installed as part of the Melbourne Wine and Food Festival, the Urban Coffee Farm & Brew Bar at Southbank, takes coffee lovers of all creeds on a journey into the wonderful world of coffee in all its many manifestations.   

Conceived as a showcase for Melbourne many cafes, this "Pop Up" introduces even the most hardened and experienced of coffee fanciers to the many varietals, coffee-based foods and even coffee liqueurs that are now available.  With a tasting station and mini-cafe staffed by coffee professionals, the installation not only concentrates on exotic blends and new concoctions but also showcases the skills and techniques of some of the best coffee conjurers from around the city. One can even learn how to make delicious coffee at home with only basic kitchen equipment! 

 Much to my delight, "Pop Ups" seem to be everywhere at the moment and I must say, I was more than a little pleased to come across this delightful and innovative "Pop Up" in Greville Street Prahran. More of a stall than a store (it doesn't have a roof as the proprietor pointed out), Kelly Cube is a stall that sells a cleverly designed package, the Kelly Cube, containing all of the fresh ingredients (packaged that morning) one requires to cook a complete meal. The concept was developed primarily to support Australian farmers, local industries and local retailers.  

I love the idea of being able to get everything I need for an interesting meal, quickly and on my way home from a days work, and all in one convenient package without having to go anywhere near a supermarket.  And if that isn't enough,  the “Pop Up” comes complete with comfortable seating and friendly owners who are more than willing to share their ideas about the concept, good food and healthy living.

But of course, no day is complete without the evening tipple...and I am please to be able to bring to you, the river-side "Pop Up" Rosemount Estate winery or at least, its cellar door; a cleverly disguised, but well fitted out shipping container.  Imagine my delight at discovering this "Pop Up"...and all on my proverbial doorstep!  This evening, as the weariness of the day fades, it is to be a 2008 Rosemount Balmoral Syrah, a complex peppery drop balanced by fine acidity and firm tannin structure from 18 months in new American and French oak and enjoyed el fresco. Here's cheers to the "Pop Up" before it disappears!