Granite Belt Primavera Festival 2011 – Food, Wine, Culture, Nature

Media Release

Lovers of food, wine, culture and nature can indulge in the Granite Belt this spring. The 2011 Primavera Festival program offers 90 days of cultural, nature-based and gastronomic experiences.

Meet the winemakers, providores and artisans; and celebrate with more than 55 events, festivities, workshops and master classes from September to November.

From seven course degustation dinners, to food and wine matching events with Spanish, Italian and modern Australian influences, produce sample markets and a beer fest, Primavera will be a gourmand’s delight.

Wineries will release their new vintages. Be the first to try an award winning Verdelho, Tempranillo, Pinot Gris or Chardonnay at more than 40 cellar doors. The Festival also features the Australian Small Winemakers Show 2011, the most prestigious wine show for small winemakers in Australia and New Zealand. Meet the makers, the judges, and join the industry for their night of nights on the 19 October with a ticket to the Presentation Dinner. On the 22 October, the public tasting will provide a rare opportunity to sample boutique award winning wines from across Australia and New Zealand under one roof.

Sparkling garden parties and cup racing will offer the chance for fashionistas to dazzle. Primavera is a time for celebration and dancing with a myriad of music performances to suit every taste and preference including jazz, blues, big brass bands, classical pianists, rock n roll and country.

Experience Shakespeare amongst vines and granite boulders or treat the children to a traditional pantomime in a quaint little theatre. Cultural enthusiasts should not miss Art on Amiens, a trail showcasing some of the finest contemporary art the Granite Belt has to offer at galleries, wineries and food artisans throughout Amiens. Participating artists include Laurie Astill, Pat and Tom Benkendorff, Maggie Brockie, Keith Cameron, Linda Clutterbuck, Margaret Dowe, Chris Fletcher, Sue Jurd, Sandra McEwan, Maryke Miller, Bent and Eva Rasmussen, Michael Pieper, and Fay Roselt.

Get outdoors. In spring, the Granite Belt is a visual feast of apple blossoms, bursting grape vines and fields of wildflowers. Take a guided wildflower walk and discover more than 30 stunning varieties in bloom.

www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au