Unique tasting experience

CELLAR Dwellers continues to delight in Coonawarra this month, with one of the hallmark events of the program, the Cellar Dwellers Back Vintage Tasting Showcase – returning this Friday 17 July at Parker Estate.

Hosted by the Coonawarra Vignerons, the event brings together a suite of Coonawarra producers to showcase their finest aged wines to celebrate the superior ageing ability of Coonawarra wines.

Boasting wines dating back to 2006, the wine list for the highly sought after event features over 20 meticulously cellared wines, from a dozen of Coonawarra’s much loved producers.

Coonawarra Vignerons Events & Marketing Manager, Heidi Guyett says the annual tasting is a highlight within the Cellar Dwellers program for good reason.

“Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply curious to discover why our wines are renowned for their longevity, this event offers an unforgettable tasting journey through nearly two decades of Coonawarra winemaking.

“It’s a wonderfully intimate event, where guests can meet the makers, ask questions and discover the stories behind some of Coonawarra’s most treasured museum wines.”

Participating wineries include Banks Thargo, Billy Brand Wines, Brand’s Laira, Hollick Estates, Parker Estate, Jack Estate, Majella Wines, Patrick of Coonawarra, Rymill Coonawarra, Whistle Post, Wynns Coonawarra Estate, Yalumba and Zema Estate.

While Coonawarra has earned an international reputation for Cabernet Sauvignon, Guyett said visitors are often surprised by the outstanding ageing potential of the region’s white wines and alternative red varieties.

“One of the great joys of this tasting is seeing people’s reactions as they discover beautifully matured Riesling, Chardonnay or even Sparkling Shiraz alongside our iconic Cabernet. It really showcases the diversity of Coonawarra and reinforces why Cellar Dwellers has become such a popular annual celebration.”

“Locals and visitors to the region are encouraged to come along, meet the makers and enjoy a rare opportunity to taste beautifully aged Coonawarra wines—all under one roof.”

Tickets are priced at just $45 per person and include a two-hour stand-up tasting of more than 20 museum and back vintage wines, complemented by a selection of light nibbles. A shuttle bus is available to attendees from the Penola township to the venue.

Following the tasting, guests are invited to stay on and continue the evening with a seasonal two-course winter dinner at Parker Estate, expertly prepared by in-house caterer Darcy Kentish—the perfect finale to a night of exceptional wines and warm Coonawarra hospitality.

Now in its 22nd year, Cellar Dwellers continues to celebrate the wines that have patiently matured in Coonawarra cellars, inviting visitors to experience museum releases, back vintages and unique winter experiences available only during July.

EVENT DETAILS

Cellar Dwellers Back Vintage Tasting Friday 17 July 2026 at Parker Estate, Coonawarra

Tasting Session: 5.30pm – 8.00pm

Optional Two-Course Dinner: 7.30pm – 9.30pm

For bookings and the full wine list, visit: https://coonawarra.org/event/2026-back-vintage-tasting-july/

To see what else is happening during July, including an overview of events and tastings, view the Cellar Dwellers event page at www.coonawarra.org