Byronsvale Vineyard to debut at the Strategem Bendigo Winemakers Festival 2019

Up to 2000 people are expected at the Strategem Bendigo Winemakers Festival where there will be 75 different wines to sample from 18 wineries in the region. 

"The event will have something for everyone," Bendigo Winegrowers Association President Wes Vine said. "It's an opportunity for people who want to learn about wine to come and see a whole range of varieties.

"But we also have many people who have been coming to the festival every year."

Byronsvale Vineyard and Accommodation in Maiden Gully will be participating in the festival for the first time.

The 52-year-old vineyard is the oldest of its kind in Bendigo but Denise Langford and her family have only owned the site for the last two years. 

Read more: The Strategem Bendigo Winemakers Festival showcases the best wine of the region

Ms Langford said they were excited to be part of the winemakers event. 

"We went along last year as spectators and had a good look around," Ms Langford said. "It was the most divine day and it was very exciting.

"I think the reason they do the festival is because you are so exhausted after vintage that you really do want to let your hair down.

"We're excited to get in amongst the other winegrowers in the district and really celebrate."

Three generations are working at the family-owned and managed business with Denise's parents Denise and Michael Burke part of the driving force at Byronsvale.  

In its short time of operation under Ms Langford, the vineyard has already produced Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz varieties for the public to enjoy thanks to the expertise of winemaker Lindsay Ross. 

"It's the first time in the history of the property that there has been a Byronsvale wine label," Ms Langford said. "We're very excited about that and Lindsay is too."

Mr Ross has been picking grapes at the site for more than 35 years.

"He knows almost every vine personally," Ms Langford said. "He's put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into this vineyard."

Winemaker Russell Clarke has also worked to create the successful Byronsvale Rose, which will be one of the label's varieties available for tasting at the festival.

Along with wine tastings, there will also be pop-up wine and food masterclasses at Rosalind Park, as well live music from The Deans and The Funk Junkies. 

Tickets will be available to purchase at the gate or online at bendigotourism.com 

Admission includes a souvenir glass and complimentary wine tastings, while wine will also be available for purchase at the event. 

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