Tasting Format

The Drink Show operates as a structured tasting event designed to create a premium, controlled environment for both exhibitors and guests.

The format is built to support meaningful interaction, responsible sampling and strong commercial outcomes, rather than high-volume festival-style drinking.

The event brings together producers across wines, craft spirits, independent breweries and innovative beverages within a curated tasting floor with limited exhibitor numbers.

✔ Controlled Tasting Environment

The Show is designed to allow guests to taste, learn and purchase in a relaxed setting.

To maintain quality, the event operates with:

• Limited exhibitor numbers
• Controlled attendance
• Small sample pours only
• RSA-compliant service
• No full-serve drinks
• Optional voucher system for premium products

This format ensures guests can engage properly with exhibitors rather than moving through a crowded festival.

✔ Sample Pour Guidelines

All tastings must be served in small sample quantities in accordance with RSA guidelines, venue licence conditions and organiser requirements.

The Drink Show operates as a tasting event, not a bar service.

Recommended maximum sample sizes:

• Wine - approx. 30 ml per sample
• Spirits / liqueurs - approx. 10–15 ml per sample
• Beer / cider - approx. 60–75 ml per sample
• RTD / cocktails - approx. 30–50 ml per sample
• Non-alcoholic / mixers - small tasting samples at exhibitor discretion

Full-serve drinks are not permitted.

Exhibitors are responsible for ensuring all service remains compliant with RSA requirements at all times.

All tasting service must follow organiser guidelines and venue licence conditions.

This format ensures a relaxed, premium tasting environment where guests can sample responsibly, speak with producers and properly experience the products.

✔ Voucher System (Optional)

There is no compulsory token system.

Most exhibitors offer complimentary tastings.

However, exhibitors may choose to use the official event voucher system for:

• Premium products
• Limited releases
• High-value spirits
• Special tastings

Voucher use must be approved by the organiser in advance.

✔ Direct Sales Encouraged

One of the key advantages of The Drink Show format is the ability to sell directly to guests.

Exhibitors may:

• Sell sealed bottles
• Sell packaged products
• Take orders
• Capture mailing list leads
• Promote cellar door or venue visits
• Discuss wholesale supply with trade guests

All sales must comply with licence conditions and event guidelines.

✔ Trade Preview + Consumer Session

The event operates with a dedicated Trade Preview followed by the public tasting session.

The Trade Preview allows:

• Venue operators
• Buyers
• Distributors
• Hospitality professionals
• Media

to meet exhibitors in a quieter environment before the public session begins.

This creates additional commercial opportunities for producers.

✔ Why the Format is Limited

Exhibitor numbers are deliberately capped to maintain:

• Strong guest engagement
• Better visibility for each brand
• Comfortable tasting conditions
• Responsible service
• Premium positioning

The goal is to create a high-quality tasting event where both exhibitors and visitors gain real value.

✔ Suitable Exhibitors

The format is designed for producers who suit a curated tasting environment, including:

• Wineries & cellar doors
• Craft distilleries
• Independent breweries
• Innovative beverage brands
• RTD / low-alcohol / non-alcoholic drinks
• Mixers & specialty beverages
• Artisan food producers
• Tourism & regional experiences

Final category balance is determined by the organiser to maintain a consistent and professional event format.

✔ Why This Format Works for Exhibitors

The Drink Show format is designed to create a balanced, professional tasting environment that works across multiple drink categories while maintaining a premium feel.

By limiting exhibitor numbers and controlling the tasting format, the event allows each producer to receive strong visibility, meaningful conversations and genuine commercial opportunities.

For Wineries & Cellar Doors

• Guests attend specifically to taste and discover new wines
• Smaller sample sizes encourage responsible tasting
• Direct bottle sales and mailing list sign-ups are common
• The format suits cellar-door style interaction

For Distilleries

• Spirit tastings work well in a controlled sample environment
• Guests are interested in craft and small-batch products
• Opportunity to introduce new brands to a wider audience
• Strong potential for retail and trade connections

For Breweries

• A limited number of breweries are included to maintain balance
• Craft-focused brands benefit from a premium tasting audience
• Smaller samples allow guests to try multiple products
• The format avoids the crowding of large beer festivals

For Innovative & Emerging Beverage Brands

• Guests are open to trying new products
• RTD, low-alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks fit naturally within the format
• Opportunity to build brand awareness quickly
• Strong exposure to both consumers and trade buyers

For All Exhibitors

• Controlled attendance numbers
• High-quality audience
• Trade preview included
• Direct sales permitted
• No commission on product sales
• Professional event environment

The Drink Show is not designed as a high-volume festival, but as a curated tasting event where producers can properly present their products and build lasting customer relationships.

Examples of Tasting Cups

1. https://amamedicalproducts.com.au/products/paper-medicine-measure-cup-60ml-c-w-5ml-graduation

2. https://medisa.com.au/products/medical-medical-disposables-medicine-medical-cups-paper-medicine-cup-measurement-60ml-measuring-cup-white?variant=45717718171883

3. https://www.thefirstaidshopau.com.au/product/medicine-cup-30ml-disposable-pk100/

4. https://www.paperlanepackaging.com.au/

5. https://www.aimallestore.com.au/products/small-paper-tasting-cups-100pcs-white-30ml-disposable-sampling-drink-cups

6. https://www.officeworks.com.au/shop/officeworks/p/j-burrows-single-wall-paper-cups-113-ml-800-pack-jbsw4ozkt