Crowds filled the Heathcote Showgrounds for the first day of the region’s annual food and wine festival.
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The Heathcote wine growing region’s top wines were showcased alongside a range of other local produce.
Ian Hopkins of Tellurian Wines said a feature of the festival were Mediterranean varietals.
“Last year was when the Mediterranean varietals first rose to prominence at the festival, so we decided it would be a good idea to have them out on show this year,” Mr Hopkins said.
“Mediterranean varietals are a different offering in Heathcote so we expect lots of interest them.”
Given the warm weather, Mr Hopkins also expected interest in Tellurian’s rose and riesling varietals.
Attendee Kim Phillips said the festival was one of her favourites of the year.
“The weather is always great as it’s held during Spring and there’s always a great selections of wines to taste,” Ms Phillips said.
“Shiraz is my go-to wine, but there are more varieties that are coming out which helps expand the palate and is a chance to try new things.
“It’s great to be able to support local growers, not just wine but other foods too.”
Beyond the wines showcased at the festival, Ms Phillips was eager to sample other local produce.
“We can buy straight from the producer and learn about where the produce is coming from,” Ms Phillips said.
Jason Brajevic from Barfold Olives has been growing in the region for nearly 20 years.
“Central Victoria is considered to be a good area for growing olives because of our hot summers and cool winters, which helps with the olive growing process,” Mr Brajevic said.
“The latitude is similar to parts of Tuscany in Italy which is ideal for olives.”
Barfold olives showcased a range of locally produced olive oils as well as whole fruit products.
Heathcote Winegrowers’ Association executive officer Chris Earl was impressed with the first day’s turn-out.
“Crowds were waiting to come into the festival more than half an hour before the gates opened,” Mr Earl said.
“This was a real indication of the attraction of the festival combined with the glorious weather.
“It will be an outstanding weekend showcasing the wonderful wines and produce of the region.”
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