BlackJack Wines, Sutton Grange Winery, Killiecrankie Wines, Sandhurst Ridge Winery, Connor Park Winery, and Balgownie Estate are among the participants in this year’s barrel tasting weekend.

Steve Vine, of Mandurang Valley Wines, said the two-day event was intended to give people a greater understanding of the processes involved in wine making.

Attendees are provided with opportunities to compare vintages and sample wine straight from the barrel.

“I think people can really get an appreciation for it,” Mr Vine said.

Ken Pollock, of BlackJack Wines, had more than 30 people through his barrel room today, and there were still more hoping for the opportunity to be involved.

Mr Pollock said he had to turn a number of people away at the door in favour of those who had booked.

The barrel tasting weekend is free, but requires bookings to accommodate for numbers in the barrel halls.

“Sixteen is really the limit for us,” Mr Pollock said.

He said people were generally interested in the process of making wine, particularly when it came to aging the beverage in barrels.

“People really enjoy it,” Mr Pollock said of the event.

Mr Vine was hopeful the insights provided by the barrel tasting experience would prime members of the public for Bendigo Heritage Uncorked and Bendigo Heritage After Dark, both of which take place in October.

Bendigo Heritage After Dark is set at Fortuna Villa, and fuses wine and food with live music. 

Participants have opportunities to sample some of the region’s best wines and soak in the beauty of one of its historical treasures.

Bendigo Heritage Uncorked pairs the best of the region’s culinary talents with some of its most notable wines in a walking tour showcasing the city’s architecture.

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