In a heartfelt response to recent challenges faced by Barossa wineries, AMQ Tours is rolling out an exciting new tour, “Defrost Barossa”. This unique offering aims to support local wine makers and producers after severe frosts destroyed entire vineyards (read more about that here), while giving guests an unforgettable wine experience.
For just $690, groups of up to seven guests can enjoy a full-day private tour that showcases a set list of the best of Barossa’s renowned wineries.
After seeing Glam Adelaide’s guide on how to help SA wineries after the severe frosts, Andrew Dunn from AMQ tours says he wanted to make it easier for city-dwellers to come to the region and support local wine-makers.
“It’s so important, now more than ever, to support the business’ that have supported my tours throughout the years,” Andrew said.
“When the chips are down, it’s the South Aussie thing to do to support each other.”
Having worked at Barossa cellar doors for over a decade, Andrew says the tour is about supporting a region he loves.
“By bringing more visitors to Barossa, I hope to foster a spirit of collaboration and support among local businesses, ensuring that the region continues to thrive,” he added.
“This is a time where actions will speak louder than words.”
But there’s more to this initiative than just a delightful day out, $90 from each tour fee will be donated to support the wineries that have been severely impacted by recent events.
Andrew says he wants to “spread the love” with the voucher rotating between the featured wineries and a variety of tour stops.
Michael Kies of Kies Family Wines, who has seen 55 vintages, has never seen a frost like this.
“Unfortunately, it’s farming, but at the same time, it doesn’t hurt any less,” Jesseca Kies of Kies Family Wines says.
Over in the Riverland, the impact of frost was equally as severe. 919 Wines reported losing their entire vineyard.
“In the 23 years we’ve been here we’ve never had this much frost damage. If we’re lucky we may be able to salvage a minor crop. It will be very special indeed if we do,” Jenny from 919 Wines says.
Each tour will leave 9am from the city and visit four wineries over 8 hours – rotating around those affected.
The tour is due to launch in the coming week, “I’m just organising who will be the first four we visit,” Andrew said.
Andrew’s close relationship with the wineries around the Barossa has allowed him to craft an insightful itinerary that highlights the incredible resilience of the Barossa region, focusing on wineries that truly need support.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for guests to enjoy exceptional wines while contributing to the recovery of the area,” he said.
Many vineyards have been affected, which could spell disaster for wineries and their vintages.
“We must also consider the growers who don’t own wineries. For them, grape farming is their sole source of income,” Andrew said.
“There is a strong calls for the government to now step in to provide help to local growers and producers.”
With frost season continuing all the way through until November, this might not be the last of it. That’s why it’s more important than ever to support our local wineries, who truly need the community’s backing right now.
“Now more than ever, we would absolutely love to see people out in the regions,” Jesseca from Kiers Family Wines says.
Andrew encourages locals to get to know their backyard!
“It’s important to understand the region, even some people from Adelaide don’t understand the significance of our beloved wine region.
If you can’t commit to a full day of wine tasting (as lush as that sounds!), be sure to support SA wineries by sharing information about affected wineries and encourage others to support them, visit local wineries and cellar doors to taste their offerings, participate in community events hosted by wineries and/or you can buy wine directly from vineyards.
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy world-class wines while making a difference, sign up for the “Defrost Barossa” tour and join in the effort to uplift this cherished region, one glass at a time.
Cheers to recovery, community, and, of course, exceptional wine!
Defrost Barossa Tour – AMQ
Where: Starting in Adelaide and driving throughout the Barossa
When: Coming soon!
For more information, click here.
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