RIVERLAND wine enthusiasts – and members of the local wine industry – have been invited to celebrate the end of this year’s vintage with an annual festival that has been expanded for 2021.
Renmark-based winery Mallee Estate is set to hold its annual Riverland End of Vintage Festival – now a three-day event – from April 23 to April 25.
Mallee Estate winemaker Jim Markeas said the festival would function as a celebration – and reward – of the commitment shown by Riverland winemakers and grape growers.
“You work the whole year until you get to vintage, then you get to pick the fruits of all your hard work,” he said.
“From a grower’s perspective you get the grapes off the vine, then from a winemaker’s perspective that’s where the excitement starts: when you’re making the wine and taking it on the next journey.
“Everyone’s had a long season this year, and a really good growing season with high yields and high quality.
“Eveyone’s been busy getting their crops off and turning it into wine, so there’s no better time to celebrate while enjoying, the music, food, drinks and friendships.”
Mr Markeas said growing popularity for the event – which was cancelled in 2020 due to COVID restrictions – inspired the change to a longer format.
“Last year we couldn’t do it because of COVID, and this year we’ve expanded the event,” Mr Markeas said.
“It will be a three-day festival this year, instead of just a one-day party.”
Mr Markeas said live music from numerous Riverland bands – plus Adelaide cover band Day Drive – would be a highlight of the festival.
“On the Friday night we’ll have Greek live music from locals Peter and Erica, from Berri,” he said.
“Between 12 noon and 3pm on Saturday we’ll have Nick and Tash, who are a local duo from Loxton, then we’ve got acoustic performer Sam Page between 4pm and 7pm.
“In the evening from 8pm to midnight we’ve got Daydrive from Adelaide, then on Sunday between 1pm and 3pm will also be Seriously Casual, which is another Riverland acoustic duo.”
Mr Markeas said additional food options would be available for all-day dining, alongside the regular Eleni’s restaurant menu.
“Our traditional menu will be running for lunch and dinner service, then we’ve also got an extended day menu,” he said.
“People can come chill out, have drinks and food, and listen to live music.”
For further information regarding the Riverland End of Vintage Festival contact Mallee Estate on 8595 1099, or visit the South Australia Tourism website (southaustralia.com/products/riverland/event/riverland-end-of-vintage-festival).