A life of adventure

Wanderlust is an experience. It’s an emotion. It’s a feeling. It’s your heart bursting with joy as you explore a new destination, only to return home and share your experiences with the ones you love. And that's what two of our makers have discovered and share in their products.

The Apothecary Collection from Nomad Candle Co. is inspired by the idea of travel, exploration and adventure. Mel has created a natural, eco-friendly collection that captures the essence of Australia's most beautiful places - and she shares a little bit more of her story with us:

What is your favourite scent at this time of year?

The Kakadu Plum scent is inspired by the savanna woodlands, open forest, floodplains, mangroves and coastal areas that make up that of Australia's very own Kakadu National Park - one of our largest National Parks and a truly majestic place. It's fabulous to burn while enjoying a glass of Irvine Wines Merlot or Ben Murray Wines Grenache!

The Barossa is a great place to visit - where do you love to take visitors?

There's no place like home. My home town of Greenock has come a long way over the 36 years that I've lived there. I can't go past taking visitors to El Estanco, especially on Friday nights for their Friday Fiesta - pizza, wine, cocktails and good vibes.

“I'm regularly enjoying a glass of wine and a regional platter under the vines outside at Murray Street Vineyards.”

Mel Barnes | Creator / Wanderer | Nomad Candle Co

There's also nothing quite like a good pub meal either so the Greenock Tavern is always a great spot!

What are the three values Nomad Candle Co. lives by?

1. We're ethical

2. Consumer friendly

3. Promoting self care and indulgence

Coming soon to Makers and Merchants Barossa - The Natalie Broham Artist Collection in two summery fragrances: Mango & Papaya and Coconut Flower - we can't wait! Thanks for sharing Mel - you can discover the Nomad Candle Co. range online here.

Chocolate by Peter M's philosophy is to create the highest quality chocolate bar possible.

His focus is very much on cacao and ingredients sourced from Australia and neighbouring Pacific regions.

They're single origin and the search for new flavours is never ending. Combined with the abundance of local and indigenous nuts, fruits and spices . 

His chocolate is handmade in small batches using only the finest ingredients. With products that are dairy free, sugar free and vegan, Peter's goal is simple: to deliver the most delicious chocolate experience in the world.

What is the best chocolate to treat yourself this season?

“Hazelnut Crunch - hazelnut and chocolate is the classic combination of flavours for some of the worlds best desserts. Think Nutella meets Ferrero Rocher!"

Peter Mengler | Chocolatier | Chocolate by Peter M

Peter's background in food and wine dates back to 1834 with his family life beginning in South Australia’s Barossa Valley. After 20 years of travel and creating chocolate insterstate, he's returned to the Barossa. We asked Peter to share where is his favourite place to take visitors?

“I love to take visitors to the Kaiserstuhl Conservation Park, a small nature reserve along the east side of the Gawler Riv­er. There are beautiful large blue and river red gums, wattles and banksias. It's the perfect spot for a relaxing walk to see an array of native flora and fauna."

Peter Mengler | Chocolatier | Chocolate by Peter M.

What are the three values Chocolate by Peter M lives by?

1. Origin

2. Terroir

3. Handmade - if I don't make it, I don't sell it!

Coming soon to Makers & Merchants - The Brandy Raisin bar - a Barossa classic 13yr Barrel Aged Brandy and plump South Aussie Raisins - this is Peter's little homage to rum and raisin!

Thanks so much for sharing Peter - we love these delicious handmade chocolates - you can discover and try them here.

We've created three special bundles inspired by these makers - shop for yourself or gift to a friend who'll love it!