Max Savage (centre). Image courtesy Max Savage and the False Idols, Facebook

In a new arts-science collaboration, the Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI) and songwriter Max Savage have worked together to create a unique evening of entertainment. The project brings seven decades of wine research to life through music, comedy and live performance. This cabaret-style event titled ‘Songs from the Grapevine’ will be held at Lambert Estate in the Barossa Valley on 18 January 2025.

You don’t need to know anything about wine or science to enjoy the evening, the AWRI said. The music will tell the stories behind some of the world-class wine science conducted in South Australia over the past 70 years. The audience will meet some current scientists for a chat over a glass of wine. AWRI has been supporting the wine industry since 1955, enabling innovations such as the use of screw caps, solving wine faults and improving wine’s shelf life.

“Bringing science stories to life through song was a fun idea I had,” said Mango Parker, senior research scientist at AWRI. “What Max Savage has produced is amazing. The scientific papers in the library have been transformed into catchy songs that anyone can enjoy. We are excited to see our world-leading science represented in such a different way.”

“I just think the science of the AWRI is so cool!” said Savage. “Every South Australian should be proud of the achievements of the AWRI, and I’m looking forward to celebrating the scientists like rockstars in this unique show.”

The collaboration was funded by Inspiring SA and is a first step in what the AWRI hopes will be further collaborative projects between AWRI and South Australia’s creative community.

Tickets are $20 each, with tables of eight. Food and drinks are available for purchase from 5pm.

Tickets are available now from https://www.exploretock.com/lambertestate/event/519220

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