Dan Sims, Chair of Wine Victoria and co-founder of Drop Shop in Brunswick [that’s a chic new take-away bottle shop that riffs on the quick decision making inside a convenience store ] is hosting a dinner you won’t want to miss this month “A Decade of Jimmy Watson’s” at Entrecôte, Melbourne on 14 October 2026.
To mark a decade of partnership between Melbourne Royal and premier wine glass brand Plumm, Dan and and Plumm Ambassador and Sommelier Matt Dunne commemorate 10 years of championing the pinnacle of Australian viticulture over a fabulous five-course menu.
The dinner brings together a prestigious showcase of Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy-winning young red wines, spanning between 2016 through to 2025. Guests will gain insights into the stories behind the wines and winemakers, while honouring the enduring legacy of ‘The Jimmy’ and the celebrated producers who have defined the decade.
Dan spoke to The Write Drop for our At The Bar series.
MY CITY
I’m biased, but Melbourne is the cultural capital of Australia. I do love this town. The food, bar and wine scene, sports, festivals – you name it, we’re all about it. And a huge part of why it’s so unique is it feels very much like an international city with cultural influences from across the globe. Whatever you feel like, we’ve got it. Plus, if it’s wine you’re after (and distillers and or brewers for that matter), you have multiple wine regions surrounding us and all within an hour and half drive. That connection to the country is seen across our hospitality scene. Solid Gold.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
Recently, Cafe Di Statsio closed its doors in St Kilda and I couldn’t help but feel nostalgic. It was there – so many years ago – I had a quail dish that literally blew my mind. Until that point, I had no idea food could be that good and it honestly sparked a love, passion for hospitality and kicked off my career in Melbourne. Second to that, I was privileged to enjoy a meal at Yiaga. Hands down the best restaurant in the country. Every detail was considered plus, Victorian wines to match. Brilliant.
FAVOURITE BAR
Drinking a Sbagliato in the front window of Napier Quarter and watching the world go by is just the best. Or, outside at the Carlton Wine Room having a glass of fizz and snacks is downright nearly perfect.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
Negroni. I know it’s becoming cliche but hey, it’s a bloody great drink. You can start the night off with one and finish with one.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
Avoid one. But in case of emergency, a fried egg on heavily buttered and vegemite toast saves lives.
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
Familia in Newtown, Sydney. I love what Amelia is doing there. A brilliant wine list, excellent snacky style food, great service and purpose. The list also happens to promote female led wineries / drink makers.
OVERSEAS BAR
Can I give you two? I do love the Ahiru Store in Tokyo. A tiny wine bar in the heart of Shibuya. Atlas in Singapore – they have m ore gin than you can poke a martini at.
FAVOURITE WINE
I’m pretty spoiled so I’m hard pressed to pick just one. I have been loving Tillie J wines of late. All of them. She’s a super star. Chardonnay. Pinot. Rose. Little Francis Chardonnay (Beechworth). Eldridge Gamay (Mornington), Eastern Peake, And yes, they’re all Victorian.
FAVOURITE WINERY
We are blessed with so many so close to the city. But seeing I split my time between Carlton and Gippsland, let me shout out Dirty Three in Inveloch. It’s always a vibe, the wines are benchmark South Gippsland and if you’re lucky, Marcus ‘Satchy’ Satchell may even get on the saxophone. Also, shout out to Gurney’s Cidery in Foster, Gippsland. Incredible views of Wilson’s Promontory all matched to all different types of ciders. Add a little pizza on the side. Magic.
NEXT DESTINATION
Japan. I’m desperate to go back there. When I was running festivals, we ran them in Tokyo and Osaka. I love it all and am inspired and excited every time I go.
A Decade of Jimmy Watson’s Wine Dinner
Date: Wednesday 14 October 2026
Time: From 6pm
Location: Entrecôte, Melbourne
Tickets: $350.00 per person – on sale HERE.
