The Barossa Vintage Festival is Australia’s oldest wine tourism event, and this year will start on March 30 and continue until 7 April 2013. It’s a celebration of another successful harvest, and also to celebrate the food and wine traditions of the Barossa Valley (check our travel guide here).
There are a range of community events including scarecrow competitions, town parades and the Harvest Market at Yalumba winery. For a unique Barossa event the Ziegenmarkt in Tanunda (on 4th of April) is a step back in time to enjoy a traditional Barossa market. Local livestock such as pheasants, hares, and sheep, as well as fresh fruit, vegetables, pickles, smallgoods and naturally wine are all available. You can brunch on local indulgences such as, Rote Grutze, Kartoffel Kuchen, and Deutsch Kuchen while enjoying the festivities. This celebrates Barossa’s rich Germanic influences and passion for its food heritage.
Other Barossa Vintage Festival highlights include the Rare & Distinguished wine auction on 5th of April. It’s a great opportunity to access those elusive Barossa wines, with many in limited release large format. The culmination of the Vintage Festival is the Festival Ball at Chateau Tanunda on 6th April. This is a black tie event to officially cap off the harvest celebrations.
While there are many official events on during the 2013 Barossa Vintage Festival (more details at www.barossavintagefestival.com.au) the region is abuzz with activity. And as usual, surrounded by outstanding food, great wines and natural beauty.
Written by: Jason, Winerist’s Barossa regional expert and fabulous tour guide!
