Australia is renowned for being a world power in culinary experiences. From charming countryside’s to white sand beaches, Australia has scenic surroundings all over the country to accompany good food and wine. As one of the largest wine exporters in the world, Australia exports approximately 60 percent of its total production making it a reputable product of the country. Australia’s number one wine destination by value is Mainland China who are rapidly becoming the biggest drinkers of red wine in the world. There has been strong growth from China year on year, now holding over $1 billion of the market from Australia’s top wine producers.
Throughout Australia, there are more than 100 grape varieties with Shiraz and Chardonnay grown in every wine region. Shiraz (also known as Syrah) is Australia’s most successful variety of grape and wine, full-bodied with a fruity flavour.
Surprisingly, Australia is not only known for its thick spread Vegemite, they produce a wide variety of crops such as fruits, nuts and vegetables. Boasting tropical climates in the North and rainier seasons in the South, a perfect combination for crops to grow throughout the country. All six states surround the freshest oceans so Australia can take full advantage of high-quality seafood, enjoyed within Australia and exported to the best restaurants in the world.
With almost 30 percent of Australia’s current population born overseas, the country is proudly built upon different settlers from Brits to Chinese to Italians, all giving a unique flavouring to Australian cuisine. Including the famous chicken parmigiana, considered a staple of pub grub, it was brought over by Italian-Americans and is now, an Aussie classic.
Now, you may have heard the age-old arguments about which country invented which dish for example, is hummus from Israel or Lebanon? Was the pisco sour invented in Peru or Chile? However, there is an even more intense debate between Australia or New Zealand. Who invented the pavlova? The pavlova’s simple recipe decorated with cream and fresh fruit is a perfect summer dessert, but who created the popular dish?
The origins come from Russian Ballerina Anna Pavlova, who visited Australia and New Zealand in the 1920s on her world tour and both countries say they created the dessert for her arrival. The topic has been such a long-standing battle that numerous books have been written about it.
Discover Australia’s world of wine and gastronomy through our vast offering of food festivals, wine tasting events, and vineyard visits across the year
Taste of Tasmania
Taste the flavours of regional Tasmania during this end of year food festival. Held in the city of Hobart, this carnival-style festival runs for 7 days, and celebrates the seasonal flavours and ingredients native to the region. Key dates: Friday 28th December 2018 to Thursday 3rd January 2019.
Taste of Sydney
Head to Sydney’s Centennial Park in March for food and wine classes, demonstrations and workshops. Discover all things epicurean with Sydney’s best culinary and wine delights at pop-up restaurants and winery stalls. Key dates: 9-10 March, 2019
Cellar Door Wine Festival, Adelaide
Fill up with food and wine at Adelaide’s Cellar Door Wine Festival, featuring wine tastings from over 150 wineries. Hone your wine tasting skills at a Masterclass, or explore the seasonal and local flavours of Adelaide’s best produce at the Farmer’s Market Key dates: 15-17th March 2019, Adelaide Convention Centre on North Terrace
Hunter Valley Food and Wine Festival – Hunter Valley, New South Wales
From May to June, the Hunter showcases its best local culinary and wine talent of the region. Award winning wineries and restaurants come together, offering guests culinary classes, winery tours, wine tastings and winemaking classes. Guests also have the opportunity to meet and greet with renowned winemakers, sommeliers and culinary specialists. Key dates: 1 May – 30th June, 2019
Noosa Food & Wine Festival – Noosa, Queensland
Superb food and wine ensue from the convergence of Queensland’s culinary and wine masters. Enjoy a course of brunch, dinner and cocktails parties in this seaside town during Noosa’s balmy Autumn season. Key dates: 16 – 20th May, 2019 Venues: Hastings Street, Noosa Main Beach, Lions Park
Good Food Month, Australia
Experience the best of Australian gastronomy during the World’s biggest food festival. With over 1000 events, guests can experience the best food from innovative chefs and local producers. Discover Australia’s best fine dining experiences at affordable prices. Key dates: Canberra – March, Perth – April, Melbourne – June 2019 , Brisbane – July, Sydney – October 2019
Barossa Gourmet Festival – Barossa Valley, South Australia
Savour the flavours and dishes from South Australia’s renowned wine and gastronomy region, while taking part in 30 events over the festival’s 3-day period. Guests are offered the chance to take part in a plethora of cooking classes and wine tastings, making it one of Australia’s most popular foodie events of the year. Key dates: 6-8th September, 2019
Tweed Fusion Festival, New South Wales
Come to know NSW Tweed Valley in October for a culinary adventure, alongside a beach setting, with local art and music. This festival is bound to please everyone, with Tweed Valley’s superb food and wine, and terrific line-up of culinary talent. This festival is complemented by the Valley’s stunning landscape, stylish pop-up galleries, cafes, local art and music. Key dates: October, 2019 (TBC)
Margaret River Gourmet Escape
The Margaret River Gourmet Escape involves a 4-day getaway in sun-drenched Western Australia. The festival includes a full itinerary of masterclasses, cooking demos, food tastings, pop-up restaurants, and live entertainment. The event boasts a guest list of international and local celebrity chefs, who contribute to local menus by adding unique twists to tried and tested dishes. Guests can also enjoy a few more days outside of the event exploring the region of Margaret River. Globally renowned for its beaches and foodie culture, Margaret River is also home to attractions such as the Lake and Mammoth Caves, as well as National and State forest trails. Key dates: 8-17th November, 2019 @ Leeuwin Estate in Margaret River, Australia.
Taste of Melbourne
Join hundreds of Australians for Melbourne’s most popular food and wine festival during November. Taking place in the heart of Melbourne, Albert Park, pop-up restaurants are packed with special menus exhibiting Melbourne’s most lavish and locally procured dishes. Feast your way through curated dishes, sharpen your wine-tasting acumen, and hone your cocktail mixing skills during this weekend-long fete. Key dates: TBC
