Fancy celebrating our state's fabulous wines and associated joys on one of the most glorious coastlines in the country?
Toast to the Coast, spanning the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula, the stunning Surf Coast, the Moorabool Valley and Geelong areas, gives us just the opportunity.
Held on the Saturday and Sunday of the Melbourne Cup long weekend (Oct 31st & Nov 1st), the celebration showcases the region’s
cool climate wines and great regional produce through a host of family friendly activities across participating wineries.
While there'll be no shortage of fine food and award-winning wine, not to mention masterclasses in scenic, outdoor locations, there'll also be a terrific range of live entertainment, music and rhythms to enjoy. A spot of twilight jazz as the sun settles over the vines sounds oh so nice.
Check the various regions' offerings and events. For instance, you might enjoy the Delectable Edibles offer at Leura Park Estate on the
Bellarine Peninsula. It includes yummies like cheese platters, salt 'n' pepper calamari and mini Dutch pancakes. Mmm...
Or maybe relax with some smooth Saturday afternoon Jazz and Blues, or Sunday’s salsa dancing with vibrant band, Los Locas, at del Rios of Mt Anakie in the
Moorabool Valley.
There are a couple of big names participating in the
Surf Coast program, including Pettavel Winery and Restaurant. If you want to do it in style, lunch in the vineyard with Executive Chef, Matt Dempsey, 2009 Young Chef of the Year.
There are a bunch of other activities to enjoy amidst Pettavel's vineyard, ranging from very civilised, leisurely vineyard and winery tours to hair raising Harley Davidson joy rides!
While entry to all venues is free, you can buy a souvenir glass for $15, which entitles you to tastings at all participating wineries. Bottoms up! And don’t forget to arrange a designated driver if need be.
