Barossa Gourmet Weekend was held on the 18th and 19th of August this year and whilst the weather was decidedly inclement – a great weekend seemed to be had by all who attended. We travelled up on the Sunday and first stop was Artisans of Barossa who represent John Duval, Massena, Schwarz, Sons of Eden, Spinifex, Teusner and Hobbs wines. This is a stunning modern cellar door which looks out over the vineyards in and around Vine Vale. The Artisans of Barossa Cellar Door is a fantastic concept seven winemakers with vastly different wine styles in their portfolios all at the same beautiful location. My tipple of choice at this winery was Sons of Eden 2011 Freya Riesling – limey with excellent length and not overly acidic.
Onwards to our next stop which was Saltram Wine Estate. The Cellar Door is set in the original winery and the legendary Mamre Brook House. Again a lovely Cellar Door set in a more contemporary space. Here we enjoyed a new release to the range which was the Winemakers Selection 2011 Fiano – lots of green olive here but with a little palate weight to suit the Gourmet House Platter that was one of the many menu items available on the day.
Finally onwards to Whistler Wines and on arrival it was obvious this was the Kid Friendly place to be. Horse and Coach rides being one of the more popular entertainment options available. Set out on the front lawn of the Cellar Door this was a very relaxed and informal venue. The food by Saskia Beer was fabulous – very tapas in style so lots of opportunities to try many different options including yabbies with aioli which were a very popular share plate choice.
Once we found a seat front of stage of The Valley Cat big band and our friends and their five year old twins joined us, it was time to settle in for the afternoon. At that point the sun came out to shine and a bottle of Whistler 2011 Riesling was promptly ordered and there we stayed, until it was time to head back to Adelaide late afternoon. This was my first experience of the Barossa Gourmet Weekend and one that I will look forward to making a full weekend of next year. Hope to see you there as well!
..