If this cold weather has you craving wood fires, hearty food and delicious red wine, it’s time to head for the vines. This July, Coonawarra’s Cellar Dwellers is back, and it’s inviting you to explore the region’s hidden treasures with a month of intimate wine experiences and indulgent events.
Cellar Dwellers is your chance to try wines new and old, and even some that have been lovingly pulled from the depths of Coonawarra’s most iconic cellars. With over 40 unique events on offer throughout the month, with everything from mystery museum tastings to long lunches and winter walks, these are all designed to show off the best of the region’s signature style, elegance, and depth.
“Winter is the perfect time to visit Coonawarra because it offers a unique and cosy atmosphere that highlights the region’s renowned hospitality and world-class red wines at their finest,” shared a spokesperson from Coonawarra Vignerons.
“During the Coonawarra Cellar Dwellers event—held throughout July—visitors have the rare opportunity to experience aged wines that are not typically available for tasting. This month-long celebration is designed to attract visitors during the quieter winter season, transforming it into an ideal time to explore the region at a relaxed pace.”
The vibe? Think kicking back by wood fires, cellar door conversations with the people behind the labels, and the kind of wine that makes you want more. You’ll get up close and personal with winemakers and passionate producers, who are all keen to share their hidden gems.
But there’s more than just that. There are quirky events like Patrick of Coonawarra’s Crickets & Cabernet – Bug Bites, which pairs wine with edible insects, Zema Estate is hosting a classic board games weekend featuring aged wine flights and gourmet cheese platters, and Koonara Wines is throwing a food and wine fiesta with a Christmas in July celebration.
“Each year, our wineries come together to curate a program of unique and bespoke experiences that capture the spirit of Coonawarra and keep visitors returning for Cellar Dwellers. The cornerstone of the event is the opportunity to taste treasured back-vintage wines from our cellar doors, offering a rare chance to compare them with current releases.
“Around this, we build a diverse program that includes themed wine trails, winemaker brunches, lunches and dinners, daily slow-cooked food pairings, behind-the-scenes winery tours, and intimate fireside tastings. It’s all designed to showcase the depth and warmth of our region—one sip and one story at a time.”
So whether you’re in it for the bold reds, the rare releases, or the perfect food pairings, there’s something for every palate and every pace. With events spread across the month, you can plan a relaxing weekend getaway or pop in for a day trip.
“It’s far from being a dormant time; winter in Coonawarra is full of charm and rich, rewarding wine experiences!”
Cellar Dwellers runs throughout July and is the perfect excuse to embrace winter in wine country.
Coonawarra Cellar Dwellers
Where: Coonawarra, Limestone Coast, South Australia, 5263
When: July 1st to 31st
For more information, click here.
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