Contentious Character
ProHighlights
- Two curated wine tasting experiences, each with an optional matched tasting board, run in a purpose-built tasting area.
- Group tastings for up to 30 guests can be arranged, with smaller groups of up to 12 booked directly.
- Private events for birthdays, hens parties, anniversary dinners and corporate hospitality, with a modern Australian menu.
About Contentious Character
Contentious Character is an urban winery with its cellar door and restaurant on the Kingston Foreshore. It pours its own cool-climate wines alongside a seasonal menu, with indoor tables, a courtyard and views across the water. The main group experience is a guided tasting at the purpose-built tasting bar inside the cellar door. There are two curated flights to choose from, and either can come with a tasting board chosen to suit the wines. A tasting usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, and guests can stay on for a meal or simply head off afterwards. Smaller groups of up to 12 can book a tasting directly, while larger tastings for up to 30 guests are arranged with the team ahead of time. Non-drinkers are welcome too, and staff can suggest alcohol-free options for anyone sitting out the flight. The winery also hosts private events, and its own events page mentions corporate hospitality, birthdays, hens parties and anniversary dinners. Menus lean on local producers and are built to sit alongside the house wines. Past events have ranged from cheesemaking workshops to cabaret nights and comedy debates, so the team is used to doing something a little different. Wine tastings run from Wednesday afternoon to Monday, and the venue is closed on Tuesdays. Some experiences and events need prepayment, and any cancellation terms are shown when the booking is made.
Inclusions & amenities
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What's Included
Frequently asked questions
How many people can join a group wine tasting?
Groups of up to 12 can book a tasting directly. For larger groups, the team arranges private group tastings for up to 30 guests, so plan ahead for bigger numbers.
How much does a tasting cost?
The two curated tasting experiences range from $20 to $50 for each guest, depending on the flight chosen and whether a matched tasting board is added.
How long does a tasting take?
Most tastings run for roughly 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the group and which experience is selected. Many groups stay on for lunch or dinner afterwards.
Do we have to eat at the restaurant if we book a tasting?
No. A tasting can be booked on its own, and guests are free to stay for a meal and drinks afterwards if they wish. The restaurant serves lunch, a lighter afternoon menu and Wednesday dinners.
Can guests who don't drink come along?
Yes. Everyone is welcome, and the staff can recommend non-alcoholic drinks for anyone in the group who is not taking part in the wine tasting.
Where we are
Suitable occasions
Rebecca Smith
2 months ago
We regularly meet up with our neighbours at this wine bar on the Kingston Foreshore.It’s got a welcoming vibe, with a variety of seating areas, ranging from armchairs , to dining tables, outdoor areas and bar stool optio…
Rushank Lashkari
2 months ago
Fantastic experience at Contentious Character in Kingston! The wine selection was excellent — thoughtfully curated with something for every palate. Issac took great care of us, with attentive, friendly service that made…
Steven Withers
4 months ago
Found an absolute gem! This is a wonderfully cosy restaurant and bar with a truly impressive wine selection. We visited for a wine tasting and lunch, and the experience was top-notch. Our host did a fantastic job tailori…
Donna Johnson
10 months ago
The Contentious Character – great atmosphere and delicious breakfast My husband and I had breakfast here and really loved the atmosphere this place offers, relaxed, welcoming, and full of character. We visited during th…
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