Australian Cabernet Sauvignon industry members can now secure tickets to Australia’s only Cabernet Sauvignon conference, the Australian Cabernet Symposium.


For the first time, delegates can attend the triannual event from either Coonawarra or Margaret River.


Traditionally hosted by Coonawarra Grape and Wine Incorporated (CGWI), next year’s February event will be presented in association with Wines of Western Australia (WoWA) and sees the joining of forces of Australia’s premier Cabernet Sauvignon producing regions, Coonawarra and Margaret River.


ACS Committee Chair Dr Catherine Kidman said the 2024 event will be the biggest Australian Cabernet Symposium ever produced.


“We are delighted to be working with our WA colleagues to bring to life the most comprehensive program to date,” she said.


“Led by acclaimed journalist, drinks writer and author Katie Spain as emcee, the 2024 ACS will showcase a stellar line-up of Australian and international experts who are all passionate about the world of Cabernet.


“They include Phil Brodie, Senior Winemaker at Te Mata in Hawke’s Bay, famous for crafting one of New Zealand’s most revered reds, Coleraine; Vanya Cullen who will explore her insights behind zero carbon vineyards at Cullen in Margaret River; and Professor Stephen Tyerman from the University of Adelaide who will share his berry shrivel breathalyser vineyard research. Masterclasses will explore Cabernet clonal trials from Margaret River, as well as innovative Cabernets from the Napa Valley, Coonawarra and Margaret River. We look forward to revealing our full programme in the coming weeks.”


On day one, presentations and masterclasses will be simulcast live to and from the ACS hub at Parker Coonawarra Estate and at the Margaret River HEART satellite venue for Western Australian attendees, followed by dinners in both states.


Day two, occurring in Coonawarra only, gives attendees the opportunity to see first-hand the latest in viticultural and winemaking innovations out in the field.