Red wine tastes different in winter in the southern hemisphere

South Australia has long developed a serious wine culture, home to many of the country’s most famous wine regions. In the rolling hills outside the beautiful city of Adelaide you’ll find some of the most inspiring sparkling wines, chardonnay and pinot noir produced anywhere in Australia. When the temperatures rise here in the northern hemisphere, it’s winter for our Aussie friends, but that doesn’t stop them from throwing a wild party, with red wine on full display.

Winter red takes place this weekend: Friday 26th July to Sunday 28th July. Thousands of winter revellers flock to the Adelaide Hills to enjoy fine red wines around warm fires and crackling outdoor bonfires. Live music and DJs create a relaxed party atmosphere and hearty food keeps everyone entertained throughout the day.

“Here in the Adelaide Hills we don’t just tolerate winter, we embrace it“, said an enthusiastic Alex Trescowthick, president of the Adelaide Hills wine region.We are blessed with a cool climate that allows for the creation of beautiful, elegant red wines. Adelaide Hills is the only wine region in South Australia that can grow top quality Pinot Noir, and Adelaide Hills Syrah is highly regarded by wine connoisseurs. We are also leaders in varieties such as Gamay, Nebbiolo, Tempranillo and Cabernet Franc.”

Trescowthick continued: “There are so many fantastic red wines to discover in the Adelaide Hills. Of course you can discover them all year round, but it’s much more fun to gather around a cosy fire with like-minded friendly people at the Winter Reds festival. As it’s the middle of winter, essential clothing for attending Winter Reds is a big warm coat and comfortable boots, and that’s where our partnership with SA boot maker Rossi comes in.”

There are over thirty participating locations for the 2024 Winter Reds, with most tickets priced at just $20 per person. Red wines are available by the glass or bottle for sharing. Click here to buy tickets.

Events labeled “Tour + Taste” encourage revellers to visit one or more cellar doors in the hills to sample the diversity of red wines available. Ownership of a branded Adelaide Hills Wine Region glass is essential for entry and is included in the $20 General Admission ticket. There are also “Fire+Feast” events featuring sumptuous lunches or dinners, and “Cosy Classes,” specially curated red wine tastings.

For more information about the Adelaide Hills wine region, visit adelaidehillswine.com.au.