#South Australia Wine Regions

[magpiesprings]

Wine tasting experience followed by a platter and a glass of wine near McLaren Vale Saturdays and Sundays. 11am - 3 pm Bookings in advance essential. Call to book

[i-was-today-years-old-when]

i learned what are the most mysterious places in the world

Marree Man – The fact that there is not a single witness to the creation of the Marree Man speaks to the absolute isolation of central South Australia. Somehow in 1998, one person or a group of people were able to create a 2.6-mile long line drawing of an aboriginal hunter, without being seen. In the midst of barren, arid land in South Australia, the Marree Man is the largest geoglyph and work of art in the world. Cut into the harsh landscape with lines over 115 feet wide and one foot deep, the towering Marree Man is easily visible from space. Thirteen years after the Marree Man was discovered during a flyover, little is known about its origin. Although we may never know the true origin of the Marree Man, it is certainly one of most intriguing modern day mysteries.

Chocolate Hills – Bohol Island in the Philippines during the dry season, you might notice what looks like thousands of chocolate kisses protruding from the terrain. These mysterious conical mounds are known as the Chocolate Hills. There are approximately 1,268 individual hills, their heights ranging from 100 to 160 feet, though the highest is almost 400 feet high. The hills, which are almost all symmetrical, consist of grass-covered limestone and turn brown during the dry season. Despite the abundance of hills, it is unclear how they were formed. There are multiple geological explanations ranging from oceanic volcano activity to limestone weathering. Numerous legends and tales also exist to explain the Chocolate Hills.

Giants Nest – In 1949 a geologist named Vadim Kolpakov discovered a large mound of limestone in the north of the Irkutsk region in southeastern Siberia. The cone is curiously shaped with a crater at the top and a small mound in the center. The mound is about 40 meters high and 100 meters across at the base. The smaller mound at the top is about 12 meters high. The crater was named Patomskiy, after a nearby river, but local residents call it “the Fiery Eagle’s Nest”. Since the discovery of the crater, there have been many theories as to what could have created it. For a long time it was believed to be a meteorite impact structure. Some linked it to the Tunguska meteorite, whose remains have never been discovered. But the crater does not resemble any other known meteorite site. Even now, the origin of the crater is not discovered.

Richat Structure – In the midst of vast, vacant Sahara desert, just outside of Ouadane, Mauritania, lies a 30-mile wide geological oddity known the Richat Structure, sometimes called the “Eye of Africa.” From space, this natural curiosity forms a distinct and unmistakable bull’s-eye that once served as a geographical landmark for early astronauts as they passed over the Sahara. Once thought to be an impact crater due to its circularity, the unusual formation is now widely believed to have been caused by the erosion of a geological dome formed by pressure from a bulb of molten magma below.

Plain of Jars – The Plain of Jars is a collection of large stone jars interspersed throughout the Xieng Khouang plain in the Lao Highlands. The stone structures are mostly made of sedimentary rock and, ranging from 3 to 10 feet in height, each can weigh up to 14 tons. To date, the origin of the jars is unknown, though archaeologists believe that they were originally used between 1,500 and 2,000 years ago. Many researchers have theorized that the jars may have once served as funerals urns or food storage. As local Laotian legend would have it, the jars were created by Khun Cheung, an ancient king of giants who lived in the highlands. It is said that Cheung, after fighting a long and victorious battle, created the jars in order to brew huge amounts of celebratory lao lao rice wine.

Giant’s Grave of Coddu Vecchiu – Giant’s or Tomba Dei giganti, are megalithic gallery graves that were used as public tombs during the Bronze Age. The massive gravestones were built by the Nuragic civilization, which existed in Sardinia from the 2nd millennium BCE. to the 2nd century CE. Despite the imaginative name, the sites were not the burial site of any giant; they were giant community burial chambers. Though we know the tombs had a funerary purpose, more questions remain. Little is known about the rituals or traditional beliefs that motivated their construction. Were they mass graves? Were they built to facilitate the journey into the afterlife? Since their existence has yet to be justified by scientific research, they have been credited to the supernatural, which has only increased their mystery. Legend also claims that yes, indeed, these were the tombs of powerful giants.

Zone of Silence – Pilot Francisco Sarabia was flying over a patch of desert land in Mexico when his instruments started to act increasingly odd. The man had to make an emergency landing in the middle of nowhere. Little did he know that this "nowhere" would be later dubbed "The Zone of Silence.” Weird radio silence isn't the only oddity of the creepy Zone. Like, what’s that weird trio that locals keep meeting in the Zone? They’re two men and a woman. Every time people see them, they’re wearing bizarre clothing that isn't suitable for a journey in the desert whatsoever. On top of all that, the Zone of Silence is known as a 50 km patch of deserted land where meteorites come crashing down on an eerily regular basis. On July 11, 1970, the US launched an ATHENA rocket from the Air Force base in Green River, Utah. The rocket was supposed to land somewhere in the area of White Sands in New Mexico. Instead, it went off course and, as if being pulled by some external force, crashed right in the heart of the Zone of Silence.

Michigan Triangle – Stretching from Ludington to Benton Harbor, Michigan and to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, the Lake Michigan Triangle has inspired numerous accounts of activity that are difficult to explain by rational thought. The mystery began in 1891, when a schooner named the Thomas Hume set off across the Lake to pick up lumber. Almost overnight in a torrent of wind, the Thomas Hume disappeared along with its crew of seven sailors. The wooden boat was never found. After the turn of the century, strange events happened at steady intervals. Of the more mysterious is the case of the Rosa Belle. In 1921 eleven people inside the ship, who were all members of the Benton Harbor House of David, disappeared and their ship was found overturned and floating in Lake Michigan. While it appeared that the ship had been damaged in a collision, no other ship had reported an accident and no other remains had been found.

Alaska Triangle – The Alaska Triangle is a place in the untouched wilderness where mystery lingers and people go missing at a very high rate. The area began attracting public attention in October 1972, when a small, private plane carrying U.S. House Majority Leader Hale Boggs, Alaska Congressman Nick Begich seemingly vanished into thin air. For more than a month, 50 civilian planes and 40 military aircraft plus dozens of boats, covered a search area of 32,000 square miles, but no trace of the plane, the men, wreckage or debris were ever found. Afterward, more planes went down, hikers went missing, and Alaskan residents and tourists seemed to vanish into thin air. In fact, since 1988, more than 16,000 people have disappeared in the Alaska Triangle, with a missing person rate at more than twice the national average. These disappearances are blamed on everything from severe weather to aliens, to swirling energy vortexes, to an evil shape-shifting demon of Tlingit Indian lore called Kushtaka, with no scientific explanation to the disappearances till today.

The Initiation Well – The Initiation well is 88 feet deep well located on the land of Quinta da Regaleira. Actually, it was used for ceremonial purposes. There is another small well near this well. Both these wells are connected by tunnels. The larger well contains a 27-meter spiral staircase with several small landings and the smaller well contains straight stairs that connect a series of ring-shaped floors to one another. The smaller well is also called the 'Unfinished Well'. The depth of this larger well is equal to the four-storey building, which becomes narrower on going closer to the ground. It is believed that there is some kind of light comes out from the well inside the ground and comes outwards. Surprisingly, there is no system of light inside this well, then where from this light comes, it is the secret. Anyone who comes to visit here, always raises the question of where the light comes from inside the well? Till today this secret is unsolved.

(Image Source : Google)

Thanks for Reading.

[langernameohnebedeutung]

My family came to Australia from the Rheinland centuries ago. I've never been there, what's it like?

Oh, wow...it's not easy, breaking down an entire region authentically. There are a lot of internal divides and differences between different sub-regions and the north vs the south and rural areas vs urban ones as well as the industries that shaped different areas - especially very agricultural areas vs regions shaped by mining.

It's also shaped by being near several national borders, with the south-west like the Saarland being very much shaped by its proximity to France and e.g. north-western regions being shaped by their proximity to the Benelux countries.

Carl Zuckmeyer once coined the expression of the Rhineland as the "Völkermühle" (people-mill, kind of like a melting pot)(as opposed to being defined by a certain ethnic group or a more strictly defined culture) because so many different people settled and passed through here throughout the centuries, all bringing together a lot of different influences and cultures, so it's very hard to say what's "typically Rhinish". Which is obviously true for a lot of places in Germany, but the Rhine amplifies the effect in a way.

Stereotypically, Rhinelanders have a bit of a reputation for being more extroverted and approachable than people from other German regions, though I think that's very much a point of view thing.

We have a lot of sub-regions with their own little cultures, some being VERY regional. Like, we have a bunch of stereotypes here e.g. about Eifelaner, Sauerländer, and so forth.

It's a great place if you like wine, castles and Karneval for sure.

[mariacallous]

If you want to understand how China abuses its power on the world stage, consider the lobsters. After the Australian prime minister called in April 2020 for an international investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chinese ambassador to Australia, Chen Jingye, ominously hinted at the economic backlash. “Maybe the ordinary [Chinese] people will say, ‘Why should we drink Australian wine? Eat Australian beef?’” he told the Australian Financial Review. It and other outraged statements from the Chinese government had all the subtlety of a mafia capo wandering into the neighborhood deli and saying, “Nice little business you got here—shame if anything happened to it.”

In the weeks and months that followed, China instituted onerous import inspections on Australian rock lobsters and instituted new bans on timber and barley shipments from Australia. Given that in 2018 and 2019, China had accounted for about 94 percent of the Australian rock lobster market, the new trade restrictions were clearly meant to devastate the country’s lobster industry.

China also invoked punishing tariffs on Australian wine—tariffs that in some cases reached 212 percent—and exports stopped almost overnight. One winemaker, Jaressa Estates in the South Australian wine growing region of McLaren Vale, had been selling about 7 million bottles a year to China, some 96 percent of its total business, and saw that number drop to zero. “The country’s biggest overseas market vanished almost immediately. Sales to China plummeted 97 percent that first year. Storage tanks overflowed with unsold vintages of shiraz and cabernet sauvignon, pressuring red grape prices,” the New York Times reported. “Now that its economy is entrenched as the world’s second largest, the threat of losing access to China’s 1.4 billion consumers is a stick that few countries or industries can afford to provoke.”

It was a brutal lesson for Australia. As one winemaker told CNN, perhaps Australia shouldn’t be so quick to cross China in the future—and it should have approached questions about COVID-19’s origins with more delicacy. “Australia’s only a little nation. We should have absolutely supported it, but we didn’t need to lead the charge,” the vintner said. All told, Australia saw some $13 billion worth of exports targeted.

Outside the egregious Australian case, China has begun to wield the economic stick more regularly. For example, it halted salmon imports from Norway after the Nobel Peace Prize went to Chinese dissident Lio Xiaobo, punished Taiwan in 2022 with new restrictions on exporting pineapples, apples, and fish, and went after Lithuania when the Baltic country tried to strengthen ties with Taiwan. The wide-ranging Chinese move against Lithuania was unprecedented—extending not to just to obvious products like milk or peat but also against products manufactured with semiconductor chips made in Lithuania. As the New York Times wrote at the time, “China’s drive to punish Lithuania is a new level of vindictiveness.” The consequences for Lithuania were so dire that the German-Baltic Chamber of Commerce reported that the country’s high-tech industry faced an “existential” threat.

The most powerful voices in the global trade discussion largely stayed silent during these attacks. The European Union filed a perfunctory World Trade Organization complaint on Lithuania’s behalf but, as the New York Times reported, “otherwise largely left one of its smallest and weakest members to fend for itself,” and behind the scenes its officials urged Vilnius officials to appease China. “To use a Chinese phrase, they are killing the chicken to scare the monkey, particularly the big German monkey,” one European think tank leader said publicly. “Many European leaders look at Lithuania and say, ‘My God, we are not going to do anything to upset China.’”

And while some U.S. officials held performative tastings of Australian wine, the United States failed to step in to stabilize or support Australia, Norway, Taiwan, or Lithuania. There were no high-profile “Berlin Airlifts” of pineapples to U.S. grocery stores, tanker convoys of Australian Shiraz rolling up the Capital Beltway, or “Buy Baltic” public service announcements to encourage consumers and corporate leaders to look to Lithuanian suppliers. There was no coordinated effort to build a coalition to implement an emergency adjustment of tariffs on Australian wine or lobster, let alone to help the affected industries find new commercial buyers.

Perhaps it’s easy to write off such American reluctance as our own strain of protectionism—maybe the government didn’t want to be accused of undercutting Hawaiian pineapples or promoting foreign competitors to California Zinfadels—but the truth is that even at home the United States has failed to stand up for our industries when China targeted them. We didn’t support American airlines and hospitality companies when China pressured them to remove Taiwan’s name from their maps; nor did the United States government stand up meaningfully for the free speech of NBA players who criticized China.

China is learning, again and again, that bullying works, mastering the 21st-century toolkit of economic statecraft and warfare. As Bethany Allen, a journalist who has covered China for a decade, writes in her book, Beijing Rules: How China Weaponized Its Economy to Confront the World, “If we speak the language of markets … then China hasn’t just learned that language. It has learned to speak it louder than anyone else.” The Chinese Communist Party’s “authoritarian style of state capitalism,” Allen argues, means it “is willing to draw on its full arsenal of leverage, influence, charm, deception, and coercion.” And China has begun to deploy those tools all too frequently—leading to very real questions about whether anyone, companies or nation-states, can afford to be economically reliant on China.

The United States needs to do better—for ourselves and our allies. Strong allies are not going to help only out of self-interest, they’re going to do it because they want to follow their values and principles—and we have to make it easier for countries who want to help us counter China. We need to create an umbrella that shields countries, companies, and individuals when they take on China’s attempts at hegemonic thought and action.

Critical to any global strategy to counter China is building and securing the series of bilateral relationships and multilateral institutions and alliances that helped the West win Cold War I. We have to make it easy for our allies—and desired potential allies—to say yes to such alliances. China is surrounded by many relatively small and weak countries that need real reassurances, both security and economic, that if they side with the United States in a regional coalition they won’t be out in the cold.

Even countries like South Korea, Japan, and Australia that are G-20 countries with advanced economies and trillion-dollar-plus GDPs are small compared to the behemoths like China and the United States, especially if they’re left geopolitically isolated.

Beyond ad hoc responses to pressure on our friends when they stand up to China—especially but not only when they’re acting at our request—the United States needs to figure out a new alliance framework to deter such actions from China in the future. China needs to know that bullying won’t work.

On the security front, there’s little value in the Indo-Pacific in a replacement for SEATO, the 20-year attempt to build a Southeast Asia alliance like NATO that ended in 1977 after never achieving a working military structure. (One British diplomat called the alliance a “zoo of paper tigers.”) Today, too many of the countries across the Indo-Pacific are already protected by bilateral security pacts with the United States to bother joining a larger formal security alliance. For example, given that both Japan and the Philippines have their own security pacts with the United States, it’s not entirely clear what domestic political appetite there would be for, say, the Philippines to be treaty-bound to defend Japan if it’s attacked.

Instead of a military security alliance in the Indo-Pacific, we should be looking to build a new—and global—economic security alliance. America should lead the way in creating a new organization—call it something like the Treaty of Allied Market Economies (TAME), an “economic NATO” alliance of European and Indo-Pacific nations with open-market economies. Together, the partners in this alliance would respond as a unified block to political and economic pressure from China—or any other economic aggressor, for that matter—through a combination of trade barriers, sanctions, and export controls.

In some ways, this alliance would look similar to the coordinated but independent action that the West took in levying unprecedented sanctions against Russia after its Ukraine invasion. As an additional carrot to joining such an alliance, like-minded members could all share increased trade benefits in the form of tariff cuts, regulatory cooperation, and enhanced investment terms.

Beyond formal joint economic punishment of an aggressor, such an alliance could also plan for and commit to repairing and replacing real economic harms that member countries face when hit with retaliatory tariffs or trade wars. Such “trade diversion” often occurs in the market anyway. As one market closes, another opens—and we know that, in part, because of China’s actions against Australia. Markets are adaptable and most goods can flow elsewhere, especially if protectionist tariffs don’t stand in the way. It’s why Australia, for instance, weathered some of China’s aggressive moves better than anticipated. In particular, the Australian coal industry—which was also hit with punishing bans—turned out just fine because coal is such a fungible and high-demand product. “Once China banned imports of Australian coal in mid-2020, Chinese utilities had to turn to Russian and Indonesian suppliers instead. This, in turn, took Russian and Indonesian coal off the market, creating demand gaps in India, Japan, and South Korea—which Australia’s stranded coal was able to fill,” Foreign Policy noted. “The result of decoupling for one of Australia’s core industries was therefore just a game of musical chairs—a rearrangement of who traded with whom, not a material injury.”

One of the reasons that NATO has never had to invoke Article 5 against another nation-state attack—the only time it’s ever been used was after Sept. 11 against al Qaeda—is precisely because of how strong all other countries know the response from the combined NATO force would be.

The same should be true on the economic front. As Daleep Singh, a National Security Council official who helped coordinate the U.S. response to Ukraine, said, “The best sanctions are the ones that never have to get used.” China might very well think twice before weaponizing its trading strength if it understood the combined—and severe—penalties it might face in taking such action and that even if it did launch a trade war, it wouldn’t necessarily inflict much economic harm to begin with.

There’s enough evidence of China’s willingness to inflict economic pain for political gain across Asia and Europe that a well-crafted TAME organization would likely attract a long line of participants—many countries across the globe are becoming increasingly concerned about Chinese belligerent behavior, and there is safety in numbers. While it is unlikely that some large countries with significant economic dependence on China, such as France and Germany, would rush to join this new alliance, states that have already found themselves on the receiving end of Chinese coercion in the past—such as Australia, Norway, Sweden, Japan, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, the Philippines, and Taiwan itself, among others—are prime candidates for initial membership. Over time, as TAME membership grows in numbers, combined economic power, and market size, it will become a magnet too attractive for other market economies to avoid, especially if China continues to engage in brutish bullying tactics around the world.

[didnt-hear-cold-as-you-live]

everything always falls together just in time for it to fall apart.

I couldn't wait to leave for 6 weeks. and, as John green once tackily said, 'falling in love is like falling asleep. slowly, and then all at once'. it all clicked into place. and the reasons why I have to leave, too, have all clicked into place: I hate my job. Now I've quit my job. Taylor concert in Melbourne, need to be in Melbourne. boyfriend flying into Sydney, need to pick him up in Sydney on the way down. 2 favorite Aussie bands at a music festival hours and hours' drive into the middle of nowhere; need my car to get there. Got to drive from QLD to Sydney to Melb. Housemate is leaving to go to England next week anyway, a lot of what I like about it here will be gone. Well, now I've found more things to like. Well, now the landlord is selling the house. Well, housemates are getting a new place together but I've still got all the other things that render me staying impossible. Well, now there's a cyclone headed straight for this region that I've got to outrun. Now there's a girl I know who wants a ride south who will help me with gas when I'm financially stressed. Time to go. Now.

There is no other answer but to leave. One of my housemates is a big believer in the power of the universe and when it wants you to do things. And yet, I wish I could stand here and brace myself against the gale force winds of the cyclone, feet cemented to the earth, and stay. I keep thinking, "if it wasn't for this I would stay", "if it wasn't for this I would stay" and before I've known it, "this" is literally every single factor that could possibly be worth considering except for where my heart is. I think it through and I know it's true: I came to Australia to see Taylor and I'd die without doing so. My boyfriend is flying in and I need to see him, and the impending cyclone would keep us apart his entire trip here if I don't leave to meet him; he couldn't fly up and I couldn't drive down any later than tomorrow. He wants to see the Great Ocean Road, I need my car in Victoria for the music festival. 2/3 of the people I love here are leaving and if I stay it won't be the same anyway; it won't be worth missing everything else for.

But my heart is tethered to the one street in town and the 2 palm trees on the beach that are beautiful to sit under on a sunny day, and to the girl at the boba tea spot who always looks so happy to see me and the sweet woman who owns the coffee shop I frequent, and the grass on the great lawn overlooking the turquoise sea and the memories of the books I've read in the marina, and the breakfasts I've eaten and taken for granted on the deck in the morning light filtered through the bamboo and birds of paradise plants. All the things that were, for the most fleeting moment, simple things about my home. My day to day life. Only about 2 weeks ago did I realize how extraordinary these things were compared to what my life in New York looked like. The novelty of the turquoise water and staring out at the sun glistening off the ships and the beach a 2 minute drive away and the most loving, maybe closest friends I've ever had living in my home; waiting for me to cook dinner and debrief the day over wine every single day. Taking an electric scooter around when I can't drive. the orange flowers that hang over the driveway. For these two weeks I have looked at everything with the sense of nostalgia and wonderment I will one day look back on it with, so as to not look back and think about how I didn't appreciate it.

I still don't think I appreciated it. How could someone ever live in an affordable and wonderfully furnished house 2 minutes from the beach and want to leave? With good coffee and colorful flowers and an ocean the temperature of a heated pool. I know there are reasons why I did, but now that the "nostalgia" I feel will become the present and not the future in just 24 hours, I feel sick to my stomach. Katie asked me if I'd packed yet and the thought of leaving this room empty never to see it again left me sick to my stomach. Another chapter of my life coming to an abrupt halt. This one, like the sun breaking through in the middle of an endless rainstorm. And just as you're reveling in the glory of the daylight, the clouds roll back in. They go on as far as the eye can see.

I don't know if I will ever find anything like this again in the whole time I am alive. Struggle has presided over my entire time in Australia thus far, and struggle is all I see on the horizon as I am unsure where I will go next in this country, how I will earn money, or where I will live. I am dreading seeing my boyfriend and cannot even place excitement for it in my brain, because it means I will be gone from here and back into the storm of uncertainty and all the bad things this country has brought me. The past few weeks in this place were the rainbow filled eye of a terrible cyclone, one far bigger than the one that is currently stampeding towards this place.

I do not want to go back to the rain.

[a-man-for-hire-and-his-archives]

Crew for Stan series Scrublands: Silver reflect on ideal coastal destination for TV production

written by Warren Hately | Augusta Margaret River Times

Producer Martha Coleman with actors Luke Arnold and Bella Heathcote alongside director Ben Young. Credit: David Dare Parker/Photograph by David Dare Parker

The cast and crew of Stan crime drama Scrublands have reported mixed feelings about their pending wrap on their season two shoot in Augusta.

Production has taken over the seaside town and brought a welcome boost to the economy at the outset of winter, before filming concludes on July 12.

Rhetoric aside, co-producer Martha Coleman from Third Act Stories and the Australian show’s leading stars expressed a deep fondness for the coastal hamlet.

Coleman told the Times the visiting film crew quickly felt at home in Augusta after residents embraced the production and opened their doors and businesses to the cast, which included lead actors Bella Heathcote and Luke Arnold.

But Coleman said many genuinely felt there was something “incredibly special” about Augusta and its surrounds and she urged local authorities to protect its existing character against future over-development.

“It’s like a coastal town from my childhood in that it hasn’t been ruined,” Coleman said.

“It’s not become something it’s not.

“It’s like the gift that keeps giving. We’ve got all of our locations there.”

Operating under the code name Silver, the Stan series sees Arnold’s journalist character return to his WA home town with his girlfriend, played by Heathcote.

As is typical of crime dramas, things soon turn pear-shaped.

Arnold said he appreciated the warm welcome from the Augusta community.

“It didn’t take long for people to start talking about wanting to move here,” he said.

“We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful location both on-screen and off.

“Everybody is filling their weekends with incredible food, wine, and adventure.”

Coleman and Heathcote also talked up the region’s scenic beauty.

“Augusta is so stunningly beautiful and the people here have been nothing but warm and welcoming,” Heathcote said.

“The best thing about shooting in pre-existing locations is that it feels like I’ve been taken on this weeks-long tour of the town: from the lighthouse to Ellis Street Jetty and everything around and between.

“I’ll be sad to say goodbye.”

Coleman said scoping for the series was undertaken during a magical summer, but when wintry conditions set in on day one of shooting at the Ellis Street Jetty, the directors chose to lean into the powerful natural feel of the region.

That included long days shooting at Flinders and Hamelin Bay, which had transformed since summer from a pristine white-sand beach to a wild and seaweed-wracked locale.

“We shifted our focus on the location not being pristine, but powerful,” the co-producer said.

“We wanted a coastal town that hasn’t yet been gone over by the developers.”

Coleman herself had moved her company back to Perth during the pandemic and the partnership with east coast company Easy Tiger — rumoured to be shooting some additional scenes in Augusta for their separate production The Twelve — mean idyllic places like the town and other parts of the Margaret River region are likely to appear in future shows.

Coleman said despite the stiff drive from Perth, the region was relatively well set-up to support a burgeoning film industry and local and State authorities had “bent over backwards” to smooth out any problems.

The biggest challenge faced was with telecommunications.

The region’s woeful broadband and phone system have raised the ire of South West creatives for years, and while the Stan production had its own unit van to help when in dead zones like Hamelin Bay, greater investment was needed on that front if authorities wanted to get serious about supporting local creative industries, she said.

Source: The West Australia

[rabbitcruiser]

National Extra Virgin Olive Oil Day

Go to an olive oil tasting, try out a few kinds, or try your hand at any number of delicious recipes that use extra virgin olive oil for a healthy, tasty cuisine.

With the health benefits of olive oil on everyone’s lips and the movement toward more flavorful tastes, it is obvious that the the time is right for this 8,000 year old tradition to become an irresistible, world wide force.

Olive oil is the gold standard of all oils. Loaded with antioxidants, it is chock full of monounsaturated fat–which is one of the healthier fats that everyone needs in his or her diet. The Mediterranean Diet is considered the healthiest diet. The cornerstone and foundation of the Mediterranean Diet is extra virgin olive oil.

Olive oil is produced throughout the United States led by California (where 99% of olives are grown). Olive trees are also grown in Texas, Georgia, Arizona, Florida, Alabama, Oregon, and Hawaii (on the island of Maui).

History of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Ever since the US’s first “foodie” President Thomas Jefferson proclaimed, “… the olive tree is surely the richest gift of heaven” and deemed olive oil a “necessity of life” (along with wine and books), olive oil was destined to have its own National Extra Virgin Olive Oil Day!

Olive Oil, itself, has a history that goes back as far as 6000 years, or perhaps even more, when the olive tree was cultivated and spread from Asia Minor to the Mediterranean regions it is now famous for. Over the centuries, olive has not only been used in food preparations, but also for cultural, religious and even beauty purposes.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is the highest quality of the olive oils, extracted through grinding and pressing the olives, without the use of heat or chemicals in the extraction process. This makes EVOO particularly pure and also very good for the health. It tends to be darker in color than regular olive oils, with a dark yellow or green tinge that make some people refer to it as “liquid gold”. This oil has a distinctive flavor that some people think offers a bit of a spicy kick to it.

Since the Mediterranean Diet has come into the spotlight, many people are looking to Extra Virgin Olive Oil to provide them with an extra boost for the taste of their food as well as for their physical health.

Yes, EVOO is a bit pricier than the cost of regular olive oil, but the difference is completely worth it. It’s time to celebrate this marvelous day!

How to Celebrate National Extra Virgin Olive Oil Day

Celebrating Extra Virgin Olive Oil can be not only a learning experience and a boost to your health, but it can also just be a lot of fun! Use these tips for celebrating or come up with some new ones:

Begin Cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil

For those who have been using other types of oils, or just regular (not EVOO) olive oil, this is the perfect day to experiment by using this extraordinary oil in a variety of new recipes. And although it is traditionally thought to be used for cooking, don’t forget that it can be used for baking, drizzling over salads, as a dip for bread, or in a myriad of other ways.

Create An Olive Oil Experience or Adventure

Visit an olive orchard and olive mill where it’s possible to see the olives-to-olive oil process first hand. Olives are grown all over the world! Although many people think they might have to take a trip to Italy or Greece for this, they don’t! In the United States olives are grown in California, Oregon, Texas, Florida and a few other warm climate states. Other places include Peru, South Africa, Chile, Australia and even New Zealand.

Schedule a time to visit one of these lovely olive-producing farms to witness up close exactly how the olives grow in the orchards and what happens when they are pressed from the fruit into the oil. While there, be sure to pick up a bottle or two to take home!

Go Olive Oil Tasting at a Specialty Store

Just like wine tasting, there is such a thing as Olive Oil tasting! This is a great cultural and educational experience, as well as a delightful treat for the taste buds. Of course, many versions will be on offer. The hardest thing will be to choose which one(s) to purchase and take home.

Share Extra Virgin Olive Oil Fun on Social Media

Take photos of olive oil experiences and your favorite way to Drizzle it on . . . your favorite foods or your favorite ways to use olive oil for health, beauty, and around the house and post the photos on social media.

Source

[kakivino]

Yalumba 2011 Old Bush Vine Grenache

Family-owned with reasonably-priced offerings (very much the antithesis of Penfolds), these are enough reasons to place Oz oldest family winery in a good light. And quality is high across the board. Bright and fragrant aromas reminiscent of brambly red fruit, strawberry and licorice. Very transparent with little oak in the way. Tastes inherently sweet but far from overripe. Only mid-weight, svelte mouthfeel. Feels genteel, sincere. Lovely stuff! — ★★★½

Appellation: Barossa Valley Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia Subzone: Cépage: 100% Grenache Abv: 14% Production: Élevage: Distributor: Monopole

Critic Reviews:

Vivid and open-textured, this bright red offers a lively mouth fell of guava, strawberry and spice flavors lilting through the finish. Drink now. Harvey Steiman (Wine Spectator, 06/30/2012) 89

Light, bright hue; a very attractive, light-bodied grenache, with red fruits ranging from red cherry to raspberry; minimal tannins and oak, and rightly so. James Halliday (Australian Wine Companion 2014, 10/07/2013)

[eandamj]

ADELAIDE 26 & 27 April 2024

We took a day’s trip to the Barossa wine region on the 26th. We chose a trip that would include visiting some other places apart from vineyards for wine tasting!

We visited a village called Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills which had been established by German immigrants in 1839. It was quaint with many old buildings. The village has retained many businesses with a German theme, although apparently the businesses are no longer owned by the descendants of the original immigrants. Here is the brewing company:

We drove from the Adelaide Hills into the Barossa Wine region. There were vineyards as far as we could see at times. We also saw huge areas of fruit trees growing as apparently there are huge fruit farms in this area.

We saw kangaroos in the Barossa region and some were close to the road:

During the day we visited three vineyards for wine tasting. In each of the first two vineyards we tried several wines. We learnt that fizzy red wine is very popular in Australia. At the second vineyard we had lunch as well. At this vineyard there was a display of old machinery near some of the vines:

The third vineyard gave us a different experience to the other two in that we tasted “meads” which are made from honey. They were delicious and a bit like a dessert wine. These were the bottles we tried:

After visiting a small chocolate making factory we finished our day trip with a visit to a cafe owned by Maggie Beer - Australia’s Mary Berry. The cafe has kitchen areas where Maggie Beer has been filmed for TV. There is a cookery school on the same site. We were able to have a cup of tea there and the grounds were stunning and very tranquil. The large pond had turtles swimming in it:

On the 27th we spent time in Adelaide. We walked through the pedestrianised shopping area. Although the city has skyscrapers it also has many older buildings directly next to the modern high rise towers. In the shopping district we found an old fashioned arcade:

We then visited the large fresh food market. It was very busy and we were really impressed with the range of produce. There were plenty of fruits and vegetables as well as meats and fish but also coffee beans and specialty sauces and vinegars. We enjoyed seeing all the stalls. People were arriving with large trolleys to buy fresh food. There were also many there enjoying a morning cup of coffee. There was even a stall specialising in produce from Kangaroo Island.

We then took a tram out to the coast to Glenelg to see the beach. The journey took about 40 minutes. This is the beach that those living in Adelaide must use in the summer:

After we had returned to the city centre we walked to see the River Torrens which runs through the city. This shows the area where there is a huge convention centre and entertainment district:

We then walked around the river area to see the Parliament building for South Australia, Government House and the University of Adelaide. Walking along the river we saw many rowing clubhouses as we had in Melbourne. We then finished our city exploration by visiting the city’s botanical gardens which were lovely:

We have enjoyed our visit to Adelaide as well as the surrounding areas.

[wine1]

Coonawarra Wineries: Where Tradition Meets Terroir

Introduction: The Vinicultural Marvel of Coonawarra Wineries

Nestled in the picturesque Limestone Coast of South Australia, Coonawarra stands as a beacon of vinicultural excellence. Its wineries, perched on the terra rossa soil, are not just places to taste exquisite wines; they are sanctuaries where tradition, passion, and terroir converge. Coonawarra wineries offer a profound exploration into the art of winemaking, inviting enthusiasts to revel in the flavors and aromas that define this unique region.

The Terroir of Coonawarra: Nature’s Canvas for Fine Wines

Coonawarra's terroir is its greatest asset. The vibrant red soil, a blend of clay and limestone, imparts a distinct minerality to the grapes grown here. Coupled with a cool maritime climate, this terroir becomes the canvas upon which winemakers paint their masterpieces. The Cabernet Sauvignon, in particular, thrives in this environment, producing wines of unparalleled depth and complexity. The unique characteristics of Coonawarra wines are a testament to this extraordinary marriage between soil and climate.

The Legacy of Coonawarra Winemakers: Artisans of Flavor

The winemakers of Coonawarra are not just cultivators; they are guardians of a rich legacy. Families have passed down their winemaking traditions through generations, each bottle a testament to years of expertise and dedication. Whether it's crafting bold Cabernets or delicate Chardonnays, these artisans infuse every drop with the essence of their land and heritage. Each winery carries a unique story, blending history with innovation, and offering a glimpse into the passionate world of Coonawarra winemaking.

Varietals: A Symphony of Tastes and Aromas

Coonawarra wineries boast an impressive array of varietals, each a tribute to the region's versatility and skill. The Cabernet Sauvignon, rightfully the flagship grape, is a bold revelation of blackcurrant, mint, and spice. Shiraz, with its deep plum and peppery notes, offers a robust alternative. Merlot, with its velvety texture and plum undertones, caters to those with a preference for softer reds. The whites, especially Chardonnay, add a touch of elegance with their citrus and melon nuances. Every varietal from Coonawarra is a testament to the region's mastery of the grapevine.

Cellar Doors and Tasting Experiences: A Sojourn for the Senses

Visiting a Coonawarra cellar door is akin to embarking on a sensory voyage. The lush vineyards, neatly rowed and basking in the Australian sun, set the stage for an unforgettable experience. Inside, wine enthusiasts are greeted by knowledgeable sommeliers who guide them through tastings of the finest vintages. These encounters are not just about the wines; they are conversations about the land, the grape, and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. It's an education in every sip, a communion with the very essence of Coonawarra.

Sustainable Practices: Nurturing Nature for Future Generations

Coonawarra winemakers recognize their responsibility towards the environment. Many wineries have adopted sustainable practices, embracing organic viticulture, water conservation, and eco-friendly initiatives. These efforts are not only a testament to their dedication to preserving the land but also a pledge to produce wines that are as responsible as they are delightful. Coonawarra's commitment to sustainability ensures that future generations can continue to revel in the region's vinicultural wonders.

Culinary Adventures: Pairing Perfection

Coonawarra wineries offer more than just wines; they invite guests on a culinary odyssey. Many estates boast exquisite restaurants where gourmet chefs create menus that harmonize seamlessly with the wines. From decadent cheese platters that elevate the tasting experience to meticulously crafted multi-course meals, the food and wine pairings in Coonawarra are a celebration of flavors. Each dish complements the wines, enhancing both the food and the drink and offering an epicurean delight for the senses.

Conclusion: Raising a Glass to Coonawarra’s Vinous Heritage

In the lush vineyards of Coonawarra, every grape carries a legacy, every bottle tells a story. Raising a glass of Coonawarra wine is not just a toast; it's a salute to generations of winemakers who have transformed humble grapes into liquid poetry. It's an acknowledgment of the land, the climate, and the passion that breathe life into every vintage. Coonawarra wineries are not just producers of wine; they are creators of memories, encapsulating the essence of a region where tradition meets terroir in every exquisite sip.

[magpiesprings]

1. Visit Magpie Springs Sat + Sun

2. Buy wine3. Open bottle 4. Pour 5.Drink ...take some home....Enjoyment  - job done

[candiso-p640]

The Ocean AKA Biome Project

The ocean covers up Earth by about 70%

Ah, the ocean.

A place that is just water, fishes swimming around. And if you're lucky, you might see a beautiful and colorful coral reef.

Characteristics of the Ocean:

The temperatures in the ocean are pretty low depending on how deep you go. Anywhere from -40 degrees Fahrenheit to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest parts are the ones closest to the North and South poles.

The average precipitation of the ocean is 100 inches per year if it's average. Oceans also carry most of Earth's rain because the ocean is large and the water cycle runs quicker on oceans because oceans are made of water.

The wind in the ocean is pretty harsh because it's mostly happening on the surface, hence why fish tend to go with the currents of the ocean.

Yes, oceans do have seasons. Because it is caused by cycles in evaporation and precipitation that change in the weird thing known as the global weather cycle.

Plants in the ocean:

Seaweed is a plant near the surface parts of the ocean. The entire species adapted by evolving roots tough enough to avoid the ocean´s strong currents, but light enough to produce seeds.

Good seaweed.

Mermaid's wine glass is an type of algae that is one huge cell that is native in the Caribbean and southern Floridan oceans. This species adapted by evolving to grow on small rocks and coral.

Halimeda is an type of algae that is native in some parts of the Great Barrier Reef. This species of algae has evolved by becoming more tolerant of growing on dead plants and sand.

Carrageenan moss is a type of red algae that grows on the shores of Ireland, Scotland, and Britain. This species of algae evolved to persevere the cold weather of the British Islands by keeping it's roots within the rocky shores.

Animals in the Ocean:

Humpback whales are aquatic mammals that feed in the polar regions of the ocean and migrate to more tropical waters to reproduce. This species adapted to their environment by resting at the surface horizontally to prevent water going into their blowholes because they still need land air, even though they swim way more than they ever walk.

Pacific Oysters are saltwater mollusks that are native in the Pacific coasts of Asia. However, they can also be bred in North America, Australia, Europe, and New Zealand. This species evolved to stick tightly onto rocks with algae via their suctions that they have on their inner bodies.

An average Pacific Oyster

The Blue Tang is an blue and black fish that is native in the reefs of the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, to name a few. This species evolved a poison and brighter colors to deter predators from consuming it or any of its offspring.

The Red Comb Star is a starfish native to the East Atlantic Ocean near the Mediterranean. This species has evolved little combs that stick onto the ocean floor and catch mollusks at the same time.

Threats to the biome:

Yep, you already know the threats. But I'm going to explain them anyways.

A ton of plastic is thrown in the ocean. One of the reasons why is because of littering. Plastic is a lot more lightweight, but that doesn't stop the wind, rain, or people from throwing them into rivers, drains that lead directly into the ocean, or anywhere that isn't the recycling bin. So imagine a pile of plastic in the ocean with turtles chocking on plastic bags and fish eating the microplastics. This is what you see on the surface.

This is only the surface level. The cute turtles and their babies could eat some of this plastic stuff and die!

Oil from man-made oil platforms can spill out into the ocean, or the oil could spill from recreational boats run by people too careless about the environment. This is a threat because the oil could suffocate the many water-breathing ecosystem and the community of different species living there. Don't believe me? Look up the Deepwater Horizon spill of 2010 on Google.

Why You Should Visit:

As long as you are wearing non-faulty scuba gear, then you are gonna have a good time. Because there are a ton of coral reefs with a community of unique fish living in the coral crevices. You can hear the whales sing their majestic songs and the dolphins chirp and play. You can even look at the little seaweed plants float with the current.

Citations:

[clivemwilliams]

Australia 2023

23rd - 24th January

We’ve now moved further south and spent past 2 days in the Margaret River area. This is right up our street - beautiful sandy bays, plenty of places to explore and lots of coffee shops!

Apart from being one of Australia’s best known wine regions it also has some of the world’s finest caves. We managed to visit 2, Lake Cave and Jewel Cave. They were both truly awesome and photos don’t do them justice. Our guides were excellent and the 500+ steps at each just means you can reward yourself with a drink and maybe a cake, afterwards!

We’ve also been to Cape Leeuwin lighthouse near Augusta - it’s one of the tallest in Australia and sits on the divide between the Indian Ocean and the Southern Ocean. Once again amazing views and a really good interactive display.

We’ve also been on a few walks in the area, although Judith did nearly kill us on one when she misinterpreted a sign that said ‘waterfall walk 1600m, 30 mins’ as being a circular one. Unfortunately it wasn’t a circular walk and we suddenly realised that we were now doing the Cape to Cape walk with no water and had to retrace our steps!

We’ve also enjoyed watching the kite surfers, the wind surfers and just plain surfers from the cliff top at the mouth of Margaret River as well as the remarkable sunsets.

[whiteairservicesadelaide]

Must Visit Places in Adelaide, SA

I. Introduction

Adelaide is a charming city located in the southern region of Australia. Known for its picturesque beaches, beautiful parks, and rich culture, Adelaide is a popular tourist destination for both locals and visitors alike. In this article, we will highlight some of the must-visit places in Adelaide that will make your visit unforgettable.

II. Historical Places

A. Adelaide Oval

Since 1871, Adelaide Oval has been a recognisable landmark on the city's skyline. The stadium has played host to numerous international sporting events and served as the home of cricket and Australian rules football in South Australia. Adelaide Oval not only hosts sporting events but also offers guided tours that give guests an inside look at the stadium's background and amenities.

B. Port Adelaide Historic District

Port Adelaide is a historic district located approximately 14 km north-west of Adelaide’s city center. The district has been beautifully preserved and offers visitors a glimpse into Adelaide’s maritime history. Visitors can explore the district’s many museums, galleries, and historic buildings, including the National Railway Museum and the South Australian Maritime Museum.

C. Adelaide Gaol

Adelaide Gaol is a former prison that was in operation from 1841 to 1988. The gaol has been beautifully restored and is now a museum that offers visitors a look at what life was like for prisoners in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can take a guided tour of the gaol and explore the cells, exercise yards, and execution chamber.

III. Nature and Parks

A. Adelaide Botanic Garden

The Adelaide Botanic Garden is a beautiful park located in the heart of the city. The garden features a range of themed gardens, including a medicinal plant garden, a rose garden, and a palm house. The garden also hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.

B. Cleland Conservation Park

Cleland Conservation Park is a beautiful natural reserve located approximately 20 km south-east of Adelaide’s city center. The park is home to a range of wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and emus. Visitors can explore the park’s walking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

C. Morialta Conservation Park

Morialta Conservation Park is a beautiful natural reserve located approximately 10 km north-east of Adelaide’s city center. The park is home to a range of walking trails, including the popular Three Falls Trail, which takes visitors past three stunning waterfalls. The park is also a popular destination for rock climbing and abseiling.

IV. Food and Drink

A. Central Market

The Central Market is a historic market located in the heart of Adelaide’s city center. The market features over 80 stalls, selling everything from fresh produce to gourmet cheeses and artisanal bread. The market also has a range of cafes and restaurants, making it a great destination for foodies.

B. Adelaide Hills Wineries

There are some of Australia's top wineries in the Adelaide Hills. Visitors can take a wine tour of the area and stop by several cellar doors, such as Shaw and Smith Winery and Hahndorf Hill Winery. The area is also home to a variety of eateries and cafes, giving visitors the chance to eat and drink while admiring the breathtaking views.

C. Peel Street

Peel Street is a popular dining precinct located in Adelaide’s city center. The precinct is home to a range of restaurants and bars, offering everything from modern Australian cuisine to Asian fusion dishes. Peel Street is a great destination for foodies looking to explore Adelaide’s vibrant dining scene.

V. Art and Culture

A. Art Gallery of South Australia

The Art Gallery of South Australia is a must-visit destination for art lovers. The gallery features a range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, from Australian and international artists. The gallery also hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.

B. South Australian Museum

The South Australian Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in natural history and cultural heritage. The museum’s collection features over 4 million objects, including fossils, minerals, and artifacts from Aboriginal and Pacific Islander cultures. The museum also hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.

C. Adelaide Festival Centre

In the centre of the city is a centre for culture called the Adelaide Festival Centre. The centre has a variety of performance venues, such as theatres and concert halls, and it hosts a variety of events and performances all year long in the performing arts, such as music, dance, and theatre. The centre is a great place to spend a night out because it also has a variety of bars and restaurants.

VI. Family-Friendly Places

A. Adelaide Zoo

The Adelaide Zoo is a must-visit destination for families. The zoo is home to over 2,500 animals from over 250 species, including pandas, lions, and giraffes. The zoo also offers a range of experiences, including animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.

B. Glenelg Beach

The beach at Glenelg is a favourite spot for tourists and families. The beach is a great place to spend the day because it has a variety of amenities like cafes, restaurants, and playgrounds. The historic Glenelg Tram, which runs from the city's centre to the beach, is another option for tourists.

C. Adelaide Himeji Garden

The Adelaide Himeji Garden is a Japanese-style garden located in the southern part of Adelaide’s city center. The garden features a range of traditional Japanese elements, including a koi pond, a teahouse, and a bamboo forest. The garden is a great destination for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

VII. Conclusion

Adelaide is a stunning city with something to offer everyone, including historical structures, stunning natural attractions, delicious food and drink, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Adelaide is unquestionably worthwhile a visit, regardless of whether you're travelling alone, with friends, family, or as a couple. We hope this article has given you the desire to explore the city and find all of its wonderful hidden gems.

Reaching for AC Repair, Adelaide, SA? White Air Services has been keeping South Australian’s comfortable at home and work for over 25 years. Their Air Conditioning Technicians are fully trained and experienced with all air conditioning brands, split systems, evaporative, and reverse cycle systems. Whether your Air Conditioner is due for a service to keep it running efficiently or you need an urgent repair, White Air Services can help you.

Business Details:

White Air Services 0439446722 76 Torres Ave, Flinders Park SA 5025, Australia https://whiteairservices.com.au/

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[tourismcampaigns]

A West Australian Road Trip Adventure

The WA Government, through Tourism WA, has once again teamed up with Rhythm and media agency Initiative to deliver the second iteration of

‘Drive the Dream’

, a tourism campaign featuring West Australian-born Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo, that launches in Australia and Singapore ahead of the Formula 1 Grand Prix this weekend.

‘Drive the Dream’ invites travellers to leave the everyday behind, hit the open road and connect with the unspoilt beauty of Western Australia through the diverse road trip itineraries that make the state the ultimate self-drive holiday destination.

An epic journey of reconnection and adventure, the campaign’s cinematic short film captures Ricciardo and his best mate Blake on a road trip from Perth/Boorloo through the Margaret River Region and beyond, along the South West Nature and Wine Drive.

The campaign has launched domestically across Australia and in Singapore to coincide with and leverage the Singapore F1 Grand Prix this weekend.

The short film has been translated into eight different languages and will continue to rollout in WA’s key international markets over the next 12 months.

The launch includes a global partnership with Skyscanner, Qantas Hotels and Holidays within interstate markets and C-Trip in China to encourage travel bookings to Western Australia.

This is the second instalment of the highly successful 2023 Drive the Dream global campaign, which saw Ricciardo and Blake travel along the Coral Coast Highway from Perth to Exmouth/Warnangoora.

‘Drive the Dream’ is an experience-led campaign that forms part of the state’s highly acclaimed global destination brand ‘Walking On A Dream’.

Since the launch of Walking On A Dream in September 2022, the brand has delivered an additional 255,000 visitors, with an estimated economic impact of $424 million.

More information: https://www.westernaustralia.com/au/pages/drive-the-dream-with-daniel-ricciardo

[vineshedvenue]

Tired of Lacklustre Lunch Spots? Discover What Makes the Best Winery Lunch in McLaren Vale Stand Out

When it comes to indulging in a lunch that’s as memorable as it is delicious, McLaren Vale offers a treasure trove of exceptional wineries. But if you’re searching for the best winery lunch in McLaren Vale, look no further than Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door. With a unique blend of vibrant flavours, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality, a visit to Vine Shed promises an experience that will elevate your lunch from a simple meal to a cherished occasion.

A Culinary Journey Rooted in Local Flavours

The secret to the best winery lunch in McLaren Vale lies in the dedication to high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. At Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door, the menu is carefully crafted to showcase the region's finest produce, offering dishes that celebrate the bold flavours of South Australia. Expect seasonal offerings that are as fresh as they are diverse, capturing the essence of McLaren Vale’s bounty. From succulent seafood to premium meats and vibrant salads, each dish is a testament to the area’s rich culinary landscape.

Pairing Perfection: Wine that Complements Every Bite

No winery lunch would be complete without expertly paired wines. Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door prides itself on an extensive selection of wines that not only enhance the flavours of the meal but also introduce guests to the depth and complexity of McLaren Vale’s winemaking heritage. Whether you’re a fan of robust reds or crisp whites, there’s a perfect pairing for every course. Each wine is selected to complement and enhance the flavors on the plate, creating a harmonious balance that takes dining to the next level.

Immersed in Scenic Views

Dining is as much about ambiance as it is about flavor, and Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door offers one of the most picturesque settings in McLaren Vale. Imagine enjoying a meal surrounded by expansive vineyards and rolling hills under the South Australian sun—there’s nothing quite like it. The stunning landscape creates a peaceful, relaxed environment that invites guests to savor each bite and each sip, making every lunch feel like an escape into nature’s beauty.

Personalized Service with a Touch of Warmth

At Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door, it’s not just about the food and wine; it’s about the overall experience. The team at Vine Shed understands the importance of hospitality, treating every guest as part of their extended family. Their knowledgeable staff is passionate about the winery, the menu, and the stories behind each wine, and they’re always ready to offer recommendations tailored to your preferences. This attention to detail ensures that your lunch experience feels unique and crafted with care.

A Memorable Escape from the Ordinary

Whether you’re visiting for a special occasion or simply looking for an exceptional meal, the best winery lunch in McLaren Vale awaits you at Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door. More than just a meal, it’s an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, relax in a beautiful setting, and treat yourself to an unforgettable experience. Perfect for couples, groups, or solo adventurers, this winery lunch promises to be a highlight of your visit to McLaren Vale.

Why Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door?

For a lunch that stands out in both flavor and experience, Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door checks every box. Combining fresh, local ingredients, perfectly paired wines, scenic views, and attentive service, it’s no wonder this spot has earned its reputation as one of the finest winery lunch destinations in McLaren Vale. So if you’re tired of ordinary lunch spots and ready for something truly special, Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door is ready to welcome you with open arms and a menu that’s sure to delight.