An Evening with Thistledown Wines & Paddy Gilhooly

Discover the brilliance of Thistledown Wines, a leader in Australian Grenache and cool-climate Shiraz, during an exclusive four-course wine dinner at FIRMA Italian. Hosted by Paddy Gilhooly, Co-Owner and Director of Thistledown Wine Company, this evening celebrates award-winning wines, thoughtfully paired with an exquisite menu.

Recognised as one of the Top 100 Wineries of the Year 2024 by Halliday Wine Companion, Thistledown has also earned Grenache of the Year 2025 & 2022, further establishing its status among Australia’s most prestigious producers.

This limited-seat event offers an intimate tasting experience, featuring new vintage releases alongside some of Thistledown’s most highly rated wines.

During this exclusive dinner we will explore…

• Gorgeous Grenache Blanc 2024 – RRP $30 (Previous vintage: 93 Points, Halliday)
• Walking with Kings Roussanne Grenache Blanc 2023 – RRP $60 (95 Points, Halliday)
• Suilven Chardonnay 2024 – RRP $95 (Brand New Vintage – Organic Certified Vineyard)
• Thorny Devil Grenache 2024 – RRP $36 (94 Points, Halliday)
• The Vagabond Grenache 2023 – RRP $60 (96 Points, Halliday)
• Sands of Time Grenache 2024 – RRP $95 (Previous Vintage: 97 Points, Halliday | Top 100 Wine Companion)
• This Charming Man Grenache 2024 – RRP $95 (Previous Vintage: 98 Points, Halliday | 2023 Grenache of the Year)
• The Cunning Plan Shiraz 2023 – RRP $32 (92 Points, Halliday)
• Where Eagle's Dare Shiraz 2024 – RRP $95 (Previous Vintage: 98 Points, Halliday)

Paddy Gilhooly will guide guests through each wine, sharing insights into vineyard origins, winemaking philosophy, and Thistledown’s commitment to crafting world-class wines.

Limited seats available – book now for an unforgettable evening of fine wine and dining.

MENU COMING SOON...

Event Summary

• Canapés and a four-course dinner
• Hosted by Paddy Gilhooly, Co-Owner and Director of Thistledown Wines
• Indulge in nine highly rated wines, including Grenache of the Year winners
• Gain exclusive insights into Thistledown’s award-winning winemaking process
• Special offers and exclusive discounts available on the night
• Discounted entry for The Reserve Cellar Concierge Club members
  

*To claim your club discount, please visit The Reserve Events page to unlock your discount code: www.reservecellar.com.au/events.

About the host:

Paddy Gilhooly
Co-Owner and Director of Thistledown Wine Company

Paddy Gilhooly is the Co-Owner and Director of Thistledown Wine Company, a South Australian winery renowned for its award-winning Grenache and Shiraz. Originally from Scotland, Paddy’s wine journey began in Australia in 2003, where he worked in Burgundy wine imports and completed a vintage in the Yarra Valley. His passion for the industry led him to obtain his WSET Diploma and hold key sales roles before moving to Australia permanently in 2014 to join Thistledown.

In February 2025, Paddy, alongside Giles Cooke MW and Laura Samson, took full ownership of Thistledown, marking a new chapter for the winery. Under his leadership, Thistledown has been recognised as one of Halliday Wine Companion’s Top 100 Wineries of 2024 and earned Grenache of the Year in 2022 and 2025. With a deep understanding of the Australian wine landscape and a commitment to showcasing South Australia’s terroir, Paddy continues to drive Thistledown’s reputation as a leader in premium, site-expressive winemaking.