By Deanne Jeffers
FOR many women, the chance to relax with a fine meal and glass of wine is a luxury – especially for busy mums and business professionals always juggling demands. The Epicurean Ladies Club, a women’s-only wine club, offers exactly this: a time to slow down, share good food and enjoy a fine wine together. Recently, the club celebrated its 30th anniversary, honouring three decades of connection, adventure and community.
Ellie Phillips, third-generation “wine mistress” of the club, spoke about the rich legacy her grandmother Marion and mother Jan established.
“From a young age, I was surrounded by stories of this club. I remember sitting at the family dinner table, listening as women shared their experiences as well as the wine itself – where they’d been, where they’d tasted, the new flavours they’d discovered,” Ellie reflected.
“Joining this group felt like stepping into something much bigger than myself. This is a community – a powerhouse of women who support and challenge one another, who come together not just to enjoy good food and wine, but to deepen our connections, expand our knowledge and share in something truly special.”
Today, the club has grown from 35 members to 65 members, with demand so high that membership must be capped. Holding regular dinners with a mystery pairing of food, wine and company, the club has also raised funds for local causes like Shepparton FoodShare, and kept spirits high with ‘stay at home dinners’ during the pandemic.
“As a busy working mum, I particularly appreciate the structure that these dinners provide,” said Ellie. “In a world where I’m constantly making decisions, it’s a relief to have an evening where the choices are made for me. I get to come in, sit down next to someone new, and simply enjoy the night.”
“I also love that this club challenges my palate. We are constantly exploring new wines, new flavours and new pairings that push us out of our comfort zones,” Ellie said. “This group reminds us that there’s a whole world out there waiting to be discovered.”
