Celebrating The Australian Open In Style

Melbourne is a wonderful city to be in during the Australian Open. It is difficult not to get swept up in tennis fever during those two weeks in January, and even the most casual tennis fan will stay awake – begrudgingly or otherwise – to at least 2 a.m. to see which player has the ability to out manoeuvre their opponent. Rest assured the General Assembly is there to ensure you enjoy the tennis season in style this year.

The General Assembly kicked off the Australian Open with a Grand Slam Glam Party on Thursday, 14 January, celebrating the 7-year partnership between Jacob’s Creek and the Australian Open. It was a night where sports drinks were traded for sweet wine and where charming banter was the only thing exchanged back and forth. Beer and wine flowed while novelty sized tennis racquets ensured partygoers were able to practise their forehand.

Serving aces all night was the Summertime Slam – a delectable cocktail containing Absolut peach vodka mixed with Cool Harvest Sauvignon Blanc and passionfruit, made complete with lemonade. To complement these, head chef, Darren Mercaldi, developed a carefully selected list of canapés which won everyone over in straight sets.

Two crowd favourites were the freshly shucked Coffin Bay oysters – adorned with apple caviar – and the salmon, lime, chilli and coriander ceviche baskets, which hit their mark, delivered fresh, delicious and delightful. The heirloom tomato tart sprinkled with goat’s cheese, and cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches only added to the glam.

Other highlights of the night included the racquet stringing demonstration by the world-class Lou Smarrelli from Prelli Tennis, Collingwood. A man who has strung racquets for players at the Australian Open, US Open, China Open and Davis Cup.

During the 18-day Australian Open festival, The General Assembly is your perfect pre- or post-tennis drinks venue. Once you have enjoyed the vast selection of Matilda Bay beers on offer, it may be the perfect opportunity to enjoy a good whack of table tennis, which is positioned strategically by the river walkway, so you can flex your skills in front of passing cyclists and pedestrians.

Game. Set. Match.