If there’s one thing the Barossa knows how to do, it’s wine. But if you dive even deeper, there’s a sub-region seriously killing the game, and now its wonderful makers are getting their time to shine.
From the historic vines of Seppeltsfield Estate to celebrated producers like Hentley Farm, Whistler Wines and Tscharke, the Western Barossa is home to some of South Australia’s most exciting winemakers, and now, you can taste your way through some of the best in one place.
The Marananga Wine Show is returning for its 23rd year, offering a rare chance to discover the wines coming out of the Western Barossa.
Originally established by members of Gnadenfrei Lutheran Church as a way for local growers and producers to benchmark their wines, the Marananga Wine Show is one of Australia’s first sub-regional wine shows.
More than two decades on, the event continues to support the local wine community while giving back to the industry through donations to wine programs at Faith College and Nuriootpa High School.
This year’s show will feature 120 wine entries, judged to Australian show standards by a panel of experienced industry professionals.
The 2026 judging panel will be chaired by Tim Dolan, Chief Winemaker at Kaesler Wines, alongside Hill-Smith Family Estates winemaker Alexey Doumbouya and Pocket Gully winemaker Jacinta Jenkins. The Wine Group winemaker Dylan Kalleske will join as Associate Judge.
While the judging itself is reserved for the industry, wine lovers can get in on the action at the annual public tasting.
Taking over the Old Redemption Cellar at Peter Lehmann Wines from 7pm on Friday, August 28th, the tasting will give guests the chance to work their way through all 120 wines entered in this year’s show.
With only 200 tickets available, it’s an intimate opportunity to taste across the sub-region and discover some new favourites directly from the producers who know the area best.
Guests will receive a Plumm tasting glass and light finger food, with wines poured on request as attendees make their way through the different classes.
The event comes at an important time for the Australian wine industry, with the annual tasting offering a chance for winemakers, grape growers and the wider community to come together and show their support for the Western Barossa.
And if one night in the region isn’t enough, the tasting makes the perfect excuse for a weekend escape.
The Western Barossa is home to some seriously good food and wine experiences, including Hentley Farm Restaurant, Appellation at The Louise, Fino at Seppeltsfield, The Eatery and staġuni, while plenty of accommodation options make it easy to turn the trip into a longer getaway.
Marananga Wine Show Public Tasting
When: Friday, August 28th, 7pm
Where: Old Redemption Cellar, Peter Lehmann Wines
Price: $40
For more information, click here.
