Comedy in the Vines returns 22-25th October – an outdoor comedy and wine show held at CherryHill Orchards – Coldstream in the Yarra Valley.
A mix of international and local comedians join the line-up this year, with performances by the UK’s George Lewis, Lano & Woodley, Sammy J, Merrick Watts, Lizzy Hoo, Claire Hooper, Mel Buttle, Rhys Nicholson, Kate Dolan [UK] and Sashi Perera to name a few.
The Write Drop spoke to founder and comedian Merrick Watts for our At The Bar series:
MY CITY
I live in Maroubra and absolutely love it. Amazing community in the ‘Bra. I run through the national park and see whales, dolphins, snakes, and the occasional bogan smoking… it’s really very diverse.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
Snails at the snail markets in Saigon with chef Luke Nguyen (name dropping) and our partners and friends. We ate like literally a dozen different types of snails, and they were all delicious. We also drank beers, which were also delicious. possibly in equal numbers to the snails?
FAVOURITE BAR
The Gidley, Sydney CBD- its drinks are elite, but their burger is something I talk about for two weeks before I go to eat one. Genuinely the best burger I have ever had.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
Posca Hydrate.
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
I recently went to Da Bepi in Brunswick, Melbourne. It’s my new favourite. Brilliant decor without overcooking it. It was busy but comfortable, and the drinks were made with love and care but at a fast pace, which is uncommon.
FAVOURITE WINE AT THE MOMENT
It’s Gamay from Yarra Valley. Juicy, silky and just so drinkable.
A WINE YOU LOVED AND A WINERY HOT TIP
Bellweather in Coonawarra. You can camp on site or hire a glamping tent. There’s a communal cooking area, and the old sheep shearing shed (cellar door) also does an amazing country cook-up! Can’t recommend enough.
NEXT DESTINATION
I really want to go to Spain and Portugal. I love the way their wines and food are so well synced. My wife Georgie speaks Portuguese, so she can explain to people what’s wrong with her husband.
A DINNER PARTY WITH THREE FAMOUS PEOPLE- GO!
Jesus- for the free wine obviously, Groucho Marx and my dad.
BEST THING ABOUT YOUR JOB
It’s not a real job. I work very hard but whatever it is I actually do, it’s not a job.
