The Coonawarra wine region launched its annual Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations at the National Wine Centre in Adelaide on Friday in the presence of media, industry representatives, dignitaries and wine enthusiasts.
A highlight on the South Australian event calendar, the spring time festival is designed to showcase and celebrate Coonawarra’s signature variety Cabernet Sauvignon, for which it is globally renowned, and boasts a program of over 50 events across October.
The festival’s launch by South Australian Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison coincided with Coonawarra’s metropolitan Wine Tasting Roadshow event that hosted over 300 attendees at Australia’s home of wine. The launch was opened with South Australia’s very own ‘singing cook’ Michelle Pearson who serenaded guests with a taste of her Comfort Food Cabaret performance, which will feature in the Cabernet Celebrations program.
The program focusses attention on the sublime Cabernet wines being produced in the Coonawarra, emphasising the elegance, drinkability and aging ability of Coonawarra Cabernet’s, while also highlighting the evolution and versatility of the variety.
Hosted by the Coonawarra Vignerons and its member wineries, Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations commences from October 1 through to October 20 with special events and bespoke tastings experiences on offer at cellar doors, restaurants and wineries across the region.
Minister Bettison said Coonawarra was a tourism gem not only of the Limestone Coast, but the whole state, and the Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations Wine Festival showcased that.
“I encourage visitors to linger longer in this beautiful region this October for the world-class wine, food and hospitality – and discover some of the reasons why South Australia is the national leader in ‘good food and wine’,” she said.
“It is wonderful to support the festival through the South Australian Tourism Commission’s Regional Event Fund, helping deliver an enhanced festival experience and draw crowds to the region from locally and interstate.”
Coonawarra Vignerons events and marketing coordinator Heidi Guyett said there will be plenty of opportunities for wine aficionados, foodies and visitors alike to explore and experience Coonawarra, whilst enjoying the world-class wines, country hospitality and sense of community the region offers.
“This year’s program features over 50 food and wine experiences to be enjoyed at venues across the region. From pizza and pasta days, to high end wine dinners, vertical tastings to blending sessions, winery tours, masterclasses, and long lunches, Coonawarra’s wineries will offer visitors (and locals alike) the opportunity to experience and discover the best of the region,” she said.
“With a range of renowned wineries offering up events throughout October, there is no shortage of activities to celebrate, activate and educate your senses.”
