I wouldn’t call myself a frequent flyer there, but I’ve strayed into Circa on several occasions with groups large and small, and never been anything less than entirely satisfied. From exceptional cuisine to an environment entirely in keeping with the smart nature of the food and service, Circa is something special. Like its wine list. Not only is it an outstanding document but, led by Ben Edwards, Circa’s wine service staff are not only obviously very proud of it, but very capable of helping a punter to negotiate and navigate a way through it. Here’s a list for those who enjoy travelling the world over without ever having to leave their seat at the restaurant table. It has clearly been compiled to satisfy the diner, who on deciding to drink chardonnay, for instance, is then given a wide and considered choice from Burgundy to Chablis, from the Napa to Santa Cruz, from Tuscany to Friuli (?!) and of course from Australia to New Zealand. That’s the sort of range it offers; a full smorgasbord across vintages and regions. All of a sudden, lunch or dinner never seems quite long enough! Despite its size, Circa’s list would be hard to get lost in. I guess its most special feature is its splendid collection of contemporary international wines dispersed throughout, plus the significant number of wines, especially imported ones, represented by several different vintages. Don’t visit Melbourne without giving it a test run.
