A festival of gorgeous grapes and tantalising wine is back in Australia’s South West
This spring, the Margaret River region is blooming with the buds of upcoming vintages, as they welcome back Fine Vines Festival; a 10-day celebration dedicated drops of world-class wine. Whether you’re a seasoned shiraz enthusiast or simply enjoy a casual sip of chardonnay, Margaret River Fine Vines Festival has something special in store. More than 32 wine-focused experiences are on offer throughout the region from 20-29 October, with the chance to indulge in garden parties, masterclasses, and much more. Here’s our top festival picks.
Brunch at the Bazaar
Tempt your taste buds on a journey through Middle Eastern cuisine, with Inspired Feasts andMandoon Estate Wines exotic crossover event. Savour a 4-course tasting menu paired with Mandoon Margaret River’s exquisite range of wines. Crafted by Inspired Feasts using locally sourced produce, each course is carefully curated with a selection of wines complimenting each burgeoning plate in front of you. From Sparkling to Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Merlot, everything is made locally in Margaret River. Get your tickets here.
When: 29 October, 2023 11:30am – 1:30pm
In Conversation with Andrew Caillard
Join famed author of The Australian Ark, Andrew Caillard MW, for a fireside chat with co-publisher Angus Hughson amid the ribbons of vineyards at Voyager Estate. Scheduled for release in November, The Australian Ark is an epic three-volume opus telling the story of Australia’s wine history all the way from 1788 up to our modern era. As you listen to stories of the grapes of bygone times, whet your whistle with a selection of Voyager Estate wines and canapés. A special event for those wanting to deepen their Australian wine knowledge. Grab your seat here.
When: 26 October, 2023 5:30pm – 7pm
Behind the Bubble
Have you ever found yourself wondering how they put the sparkle in sparkling win? Bubbles and laughs overflow as you learn the secrets of acclaimed Howard Park winemaker and sparkling wine specialist, Nic Bowen. From barrel to bottle, explore the ins and outs of tirage, disgorging and dosage. It’s simpler than it sounds, we promise. After honing your palate with sip of delectable Howard Park Jeté sparkling wines, put your newfound skills to the test by creating the perfect sparkling wine. Win over the winemaker and you’ll even walkaway with a Jeté prize pack, and your winning wine replicated and delivered to your door! Go behind the bubbles here.
When: 21 October, 2023 10am – 12:45pm, 2pm – 4:15pm
Patisserie Meets Passel Estate
Indulgent food? Tick. Bountiful wines? You bet it. Welcome to the flavour sensations of Maison Lassiaille’s team up with Passel Estate. Explore the lush grounds and winding vineyards, experiencing award-winning, single-vineyard wines, all paired with decadent high tea treats. Get the gossip as you roam the estate with owners Barry and Wendy Stimpson, all to a soundtrack of live, classical music. Dress in your most elegant garden party attire but leave your heels at home if you’re up for cruising through the vineyard and trails. Find out more here.
When: 28 October, 2023 12pm – 3pm
Play Your Chards Right
It might be a mouthful to say, but tasting a Chardonnay is an art! Learn how to savour this iconic Margaret River style in a masterclass with local winemaker and wine educator, Charlotte Newton. Discover the nuances that contribute to the versatility of this renowned white grape, tasting six Chardonnays from the region. Get blending under Charlotte’s guidance and create a masterpiece that can have you snagging a bottle of Charlotte’s own label, ChaCha Chardonnay! Sip away here.
When: 20 & 22 October, 2023 1pm – 4pm
A Swings Soiree
The Spring sunshine beckons your inner child at Swings and Roundabouts, Yallingup, with an afternoon garden party conjuring up dreamy aromatic wines and fresh seafood vibes. The sprawling backyard off the open-air deck plays backdrop to delectable roving canapes and a Swings Spritz, with guests able to rest their tired toes at a sit-down banquet featuring a treasure trove of local seafood and divine wines. No garden party is complete without live acoustic music to relax to as the afternoon light dances of the picturesque landscape. Add your name to the list here.
When: 27 October, 2023 12pm – 3:30pm
