Millon Wines has unveiled its first sparkling release – the Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir. They celebrate the best of South Australia by hand picking chardonnay and Pinot noir grapes from their cool-climate vineyard in the Eden Valley.
We spoke to Millon Wines Branding and Marketing Manager Amy Guo for our At The Bar series. She shares her favourite bars in Sydney and Melbourne, a Hong Kong bar tip and a winery she recommends.
MY CITY
I’ve lived in Sydney my whole life, and it’s easy to forget just how beautiful it is when it’s part of your everyday routine. You start to overlook the little things that make it so special. But every so often, you’re reminded of just how stunning this city truly is. The other day, I was driving along the Cahill Expressway, and as I glanced out at the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, I felt that familiar sense of awe. It’s moments like that when you realise how lucky you are to call this city home. Sydney is so versatile – from its stunning beaches to the scenic coastal walks and breathtaking city views – there’s always something that feels fresh and exciting, no matter how long you’ve been here.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
Encasa is one of those spots I keep coming back to. Their tapas are fantastic– the garlic prawns are juicy and full of flavour, the calamari are crisp and tender, and the grilled Spanish sausages have this amazing smoky richness. The dishes are simple but done so well, letting the bold, authentic flavours shine. It’s the perfect place for a date night or to bring your foodie friends to! No matter how many visits, it always delivers.
FAVOURITE BAR
My current favourite bar is Vinabar – a Vietnamese-inspired micro bar that nails the cosy, creative vibe. Every drink is thoughtfully crafted with flavours inspired by Asia, and their Mala Garita has to be my favourite. It’s fruity, spicy, and has that kick of Szechuan peppercorns that just hits perfectly.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
A Margarita with a spicy twist – maybe that’s why I love the Mala Garita from Vinabar so much. It’s classic but with a little kick – bold, fun, and just the right amount of balance. Definitely my kind of drink.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
Hydralyte, a good sleep-in, and a big bowl of pho. The broth is like magic – salty, herby, and comforting. Pair that with a litre of water, and you’re good as new.
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
Music Room in Melbourne – it’s a hidden gem with a moody vibe and an amazing playlist. The cocktails are on point, and the whole space feels like you’ve stumbled into a secret club. It’s got that cool, effortless charm that makes you want to stay all night.
OVERSEAS BAR TIP
Always look for the places that are hidden or tucked away. They’re the ones with the most character – unique cocktails and an atmosphere you won’t forget. Pro tip: ask the bartender for their off-menu recommendation. It’s the best way to discover something special.
If you’re ever in Hong Kong, check out The Iron Fairies. It’s this magical, industrial-style Jazz bar with a ceiling covered in butterflies and dim, moody lighting. The vibe is like stepping into a fantasy world, and their cocktails are as creative as the space itself.
FAVOURITE WINE
I’ve been enjoying a bottle of Millon Wines Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir with family and friends this summer, and it’s the perfect balance of freshness and elegance. The crisp bubbles, vibrant citrus notes, and subtle toasty finish make it so easy to drink—whether it’s a relaxed afternoon by the water or a dinner that calls for something a little special.
But I also love a good Sparkling Shiraz—bold, rich, and full of depth, with just the right amount of sparkle to make it feel festive. It’s the kind of wine that works just as well at a long lunch as it does at a cosy winter gathering. And on that note, Millon Wines has a Sparkling Shiraz coming out soon, so keep an eye out! It’s going to be one to have on hand for any occasion.
FAVOURITE WINERY
You can’t go wrong with Château Tanunda in the Barossa Valley. The estate is rich with history and It’s one of those places where you can easily spend the whole day, sipping great wine and soaking up the views.
NEXT DESTINATION
Next destination I’m visiting is Koh Samui, Thailand. I can’t wait for the beaches, sunsets, and fresh seafood. It’s going to be all about unwinding, soaking up the island vibes, a bit of scuba diving and enjoying some tropical cocktails.
Tell us the best dishes to pair with sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir
This wine pairs beautifully with fresh, delicate flavours – oysters with spicy ponzu sauce, seared scallops in lemon butter, or creamy brie drizzled with honey are all perfect matches. For something unexpected, try it with fried chicken – the bubbles cut through the richness like a dream.
What do you love about this varietal
It’s light, zesty, and vibrant, but it also has this beautiful structure that gives it versatility. It feels celebratory without trying too hard – perfect for a brunch, a wedding toast, or just turning a regular dinner into something special. It’s the kind of wine that makes every sip feel a little extra.
Tell us about the processes used to perfect this wine, and what it does for the flavour profile
Our winemaker, Angus Wardlaw uses the Charmat method to blend base wines from the 2023 and 2024 vintages, resulting in a wine that’s fresh and vibrant. The secondary fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, creating fine, elegant bubbles while preserving the delicate fruit aromatics. Bottled under pressure, it’s crisp, lively, and perfect for any occasion.
How to serve it at home:
- Serve it chilled, but not too cold – you want to let those beautiful flavours shine.
- It’s an ideal gift for any wine lover or anyone who appreciates something refined and stylish – the label has a sophisticated design that will stand out beautifully on a table or in a gift hamper.