Wine Country

This April, 22 wineries from across the Pyrenees and Grampians will come together in one place to showcase the region’s finest offerings for everyone to enjoy. This is Pyrenees Unearthed.

Just 40 minutes’ drive from Ballarat along the Sunraysia Highway is the Pyrenees – a wine region renowned for rich reds, floral whites, fine sparkling and almost everything in between.

Next door is the Grampians, one of Australia’s most historic and acclaimed wine regions.

To celebrate these two great producers and showcase the incredible range they have on offer, the Pyrenees Grape Growers and Winemakers (PGW) will host Pyrenees Unearthed – an afternoon of wine, food and music in a relaxed, country setting.

Pyrenees Unearthed has been successfully running for nearly 10 years and each year it has grown to include more wineries and other local producers, and 2023 is set to be the biggest event yet.

A total of 22 stall holders are confirmed, which includes a microbrewery and stillhouse, as well as 10 food trucks, live music and children’s entertainment. It is the perfect opportunity for the surrounding communities to rediscover beautiful wines produced right on their doorstep.

PGW President Peter Bicknell is one of the driving forces behind the event.

“Pyrenees Unearthed is really important to our members. It’s our biggest fundraiser for the year and one of the best ways for wineries to get their name, and their produce, out into the broader community.

“Everyone who participated last year signed on for 2023, which demonstrates its value in gaining some much-needed exposure, and this year we have some wineries joining in for the first time.

“It’s a fantastic day where people can sample a broad range of local wines, as well as beer, cider and gins, in one place.”

The event is held in Avoca on the river flat, the heart of the Pyrenees region and the perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon. As well as tasting, patrons have the opportunity to speak with winemakers directly.

“Certain places are known for particular types of wines but we all put our own spin on it. At the event you can have a chat, ask some questions and gain a good understanding of what makes each of the wines unique.”

Gary Daly from Pyrenees Events has been working hard to bring the day together, hoping to create the same great atmosphere patrons experienced in 2022.

“It was such a lovely, easy day for everyone, and that’s want we want. No one should feel crowded or rushed. We’re in the country and we want to embrace that.

“The live music sets the tone of the day and the free children’s activities mean kids and parents are happy.

“I remember last year taking a moment to just look around. I could see people laughing, some dancing, some reclining under the trees, kids playing – it was a great vibe. I know we can do that again.”

More than just wine, Pyrenees Unearthed has become one of the biggest tourism events on the calendar and has the full support of Council and the community.

“Council is terrific in helping us, as are the staff who come along on the day. We also have local groups who volunteer. Everyone contributes to help our region shine and achieve the best outcome.

“We do our part too, by donating back a portion of the profits to the community. Supporting one another is how small communities like ours stay successful. We’re proud and thankful to be a part of it.”

Beyond the event itself, Peter hopes people will simply keep coming back to visit.

“Pyrenees Unearthed is a great way to get reacquainted with local wines, and then ideally, this results in a couple of return visits throughout the year. We’re always looking at ways to generate more visitation, especially from Ballarat as we’re just so close.

“Melbourne has the Yarra Valley. Ballarat has us.”

Tickets to Pyrenees Unearthed are $75 per person (children under 16 are free), which includes entry, a glass, wine tasting and a carry bag for any wine purchased on the day. Those who find something they like can purchase by the glass or bottle. Bottles can be consumed on the day or taken home to be enjoyed later.

Buses run from Ballarat, Ararat and Maryborough, taking people to and from the event. Gates open at 11am and food trucks will be onsite all day catering to a large range of tastes and dietary requirements. Food and drink service ends at 5pm.

To learn more about Pyrenees Unearthed, purchase tickets, book a bus pass or find accommodation, visit the website. It includes a full list of stallholders and links to their websites.

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