Bendigo’s gentle rolling hills and Mediterranean-like climate have made it a noteworthy wine region ever since grapes were first planted during the gold rush era. Acquaint yourself with their celebrated shirazes, cabernet sauvignons and family-run wineries at Uncorked Festival, a 16-day wine event that will have you eating, drinking and seeing the best of Bendigo.
From October 1-16 they’re putting on a diverse program that will delight both the curious and connoisseurs, culminating in the inaugural Spring Wine Fiesta – a joyful event celebrating the new 2022 vintage. Guests will have the privilege of being among the first to taste the latest (including many unreleased) drops from scores of Bendigo wineries. There’ll also be exclusive releases from Glenwillow, Turners Crossing and GilGraves on offer, delicious food from local purveyors and live music curated by the team behind the Bendigo Blues and Roots Music Festival.
Elsewhere in the program you can expect generous long lunches and languorous dinners, from a five-course laneway dinner by Mandurang Valley Wines and the Dispensary to a six-course feast by Killcrankie Wines and local café Hoo-gah that will showcase native foods consumed in each of the six annual Aboriginal seasons of Birak, Bunuru, Djeran, Makuru, Djilba and Kambarang.
There’s plenty of casual fun to be had too. For a relaxed evening out there’s a wine, pizza and trivial pursuit night by Newbridge Hotel, tastings at the movies, or wine-infused cocktails, gigs and superb views at rooftop bar Nimbus. Rosé lovers can spend an afternoon sampling their way across Bendigo’s best pink wines for only $10 (redeemable on any purchase), while blended wine enthusiasts can attend a barrel blending evening by Burnt Acre wines and take home their own custom creation.
While you’re in town check out Bendigo Bloom, a packed program of 60 experiences and events across food, art, culture and fashion, plus a stunning tulip display with over 53,000 bulbs.