Get ready to uncork a weekend of Shiraz

ONE of the Geelong wine region’s signature varietals will take centre stage next month in the return of the annual Winter Shiraz Weekend.

Billed as a “journey for the senses”, the Wine Geelong festival will be held from August 4-6 and see 19 wineries from the Bellarine Peninsula, Moorabool Valley and Surf Coast open their doors.

Attendees will be invited to sample award-winning Shiraz, enjoy matched lunches and dinners, and participate in exclusive masterclasses.

Wine Geelong event manager Jo Wealands said the event – now in its eighth year – was a popular weekend for local wineries and attracted wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

“The annual festival spanning three days shines a spotlight on the extraordinary quality of our local Shiraz with an enticing array of more than 21 wine-focused events held at 19 of our best and most popular wineries.

“There will be an array of interactive masterclasses as well as divine Shiraz-matched lunches and dinners to name a few. It’s a great weekend to explore the region with family and friends, and to taste your way through some seriously delicious Shiraz.”

Surf Coast-based producer Mount Duneed Estate is offering a bottomless Shiraz High Tea as part of the event, and marketing manager Christine Whelan confirmed there would be a mix of sweet and savoury Shiraz-inspired treats on offer.

“We love the Winter Shiraz Weekend event and every year it provides such a great opportunity to engage with customers. It is great to see wine lovers come together and celebrate the full-bodied, robust flavour found in all three of our Shiraz varietals,” she said.

“Winter Shiraz is all about cozy surroundings, sharing wine and laughing with friends. Above all else, it’s about getting out and supporting our local wineries which means a lot to us.

“Join us at Mount Duneed Estate for complimentary tastings and see what suits your palate – the three ranges all present differently in terms of age, tannins, depth and full-fruit flavour.

“Stay for lunch, add a bottle of wine, sit back and you are all set for a great day.”

Other participating wineries include Terindah Estate, Austin’s, McGlashan Estate, Oakdene, Scotchman’s Hill, Moshulu and Provenance Wines, and each has created its own individual program for the weekend.

The 2023 program features an impressive feast of food and wine experiences, gourmet produce and local music.

Many wineries are offering the chance to ‘meet the makers’ with knowledgeable local vignerons and producers leading guests on a path of wine discovery.

Talented chefs will match the region’s renowned cool-climate wines with hearty winter fare and offer attendees the chance to sit back, relax and soak in the atmosphere.

For more details or to download the event program, head to wintershiraz.com.au