Winter Shiraz Festival to showcase the region

GEELONG’S Winter Shiraz Festival is set to return next month following the state government’s contribution through the Wine Growth Fund.

Following a COVID-19 induced hiatus, the Shiraz festival is set to return to the region over July 3-4.

The Wine Growth Fund forms part of the state government’s $1 million commitment to support initiatives that develop the Victorian wine industry.

The long-awaited event will see 24 wineries open their doors across the Bellarine Peninsula, Moorabool Valley and Surf Coast, offering tastings, food and entertainment while showcasing the best of the region’s Shiraz.

Among those participating is Fyansford producer Provenance Wines, with owner Sam Vogel looking forward to welcoming festival-goers after receiving the 2021 award for ‘Best Tasting Experience and Food in Geelong’ by Gourmet Traveller.

“The Winter Shiraz Festival is one of our favourites, it’s a great chance for locals and visitors alike to get out to the wineries, meet the producers and taste some of Australia’s best cool climate Shiraz,” he said.

“All over the region, producers put on some really beautiful tastings and I know everyone is looking forward to holding this event again, it’s a great weekend.”

Over the two-day event Provenance Wines will be offering a ‘Splendid Shiraz Masterclass’ taking guests on a journey of discovery with six shiraz tastings paired with “delicious snacks.”

“Guests will also be able to savour beautiful Shiraz-inspired hearty specials in our award-winning restaurant matched perfectly with our 2019 Geelong Shiraz, while admiring our artwork mural by acclaimed international artist RONE,” Mr Vogel said.

“They will also be able to ‘steal’ a tasting from a Shiraz barrel in the grand Barrell Hall using a ‘Wine Thief’, which will be a bit of fun.”

The festival will include free entry for all ages with other participating wineries including Oakdene Estate, Terindah Estate, Scotchman’ s Hill, Lethbridge Estate, Nicol’s Paddock, Mt Duneed Estate and Jack Rabbit Vineyard.

Each winery will create its own individual program for the weekend.

The 2021 event guide guarantees unparalleled experiences with scheduled cool climate Shiraz tastings matched with hearty winter meals and opportunities to meet the experts behind the drop.

For more information, or to download an event brochure, head to the Winter Shiraz Festival website.