Top Geelong drops toasted

Local winery Barwon Ridge pouring some of its best drops. Photos: FERNE MILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

HUNDREDS of local wine-lovers charged their glasses and enjoyed the festivities at the 21st annual Toast to the Coast event last weekend.

The cultural extravaganza showcased more than 40 of the best cool climate wines from the Moorabool Valley, Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula as well as the crafty work of multiple top breweries and local distillers.

Back where it all begun at Deakin University Waterfront Campus, the event had something for everyone, with masterclasses, live music and small food stalls to enjoy.

Anther Spirits co-founder and chief distiller Dervilla McGowan.

Ticketholders sniffed, swirled and tasted local wines during a one-hour masterclass session with WSET educator Nicola Reid, while others compared old versus new Geelong wines with local winemaker Tom Brushfield

Attendees could also buy wines by the bottle or glass throughout the day.

Steven Paul from participating winery Oakdene Estate said it was another successful day of celebrating local wine.

Blackmans Brewery giving some of their Coast Seltzer’s out to some happy ticketholders.

Great Ocean Road Gin was a big favourite for those looking for something different to wine.

“Each year, Toast to the Coast provides the wine growers of the Geelong region with an opportunity to showcase wines with a collective voice.

Yes Said the Seal winemaker Darren Burke.

“Growing conditions are discussed, and the impact of the season on our hero varieties such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Shiraz can be clearly seen in the wines.”