Tasting Australia is Where the Wild Experiences Grow

That’s why the institution of travel guides, Lonely Planet, has named Adelaide at number five in the Top 10 regions to visit in 2017.

More uncharted than a best-kept secret, Adelaide is an emerging mecca for food and wine experiences that are authentic, raw and dirty.

This is where foodies come to discover what’s new on the menu, direct from the source – often a small organic vegetable patch in the Adelaide foothills, or via a splosh straight out of a Fleurieu Peninsula barrel.

And so in 2017 Tasting Australia – Adelaide’s eight-day eating and drinking festival – is going on tour to celebrate these roots and the homegrown heroes of the kitchen, cellar, garden, vineyard and beyond.

The festival, which is one of Australia’s foremost food and wine events, will maintain a strong base in the city of Adelaide in its debut annual appearance. But the program will also be curated to drive the food curious and wine enthusiasts throughout the state’s food bowls just 30 to 60 minutes out of the CBD. A roving, pop-up hub will bring communities and guests together at an abundant and nourishing table.

Between April 30 and May 7, join Tasting Australia for an unforgettable epicurean tour of South Australia. Beginning in the Barossa with big, bold, historical red wines and surprising flavours, the festival will then move south along the coast to the fresh fields of the Fleurieu Peninsula. The program will conclude in the Adelaide Hills where the new guard of producers will present unexpected wines and full-bodied food experiences.

Tasting Australia creative director Simon Bryant is certain that locals and visitors will revel in experiencing food direct from the source.

“The theme for Tasting Australia in 2017 is People and what better way to get to know the people behind South Australia’s premium food and wine than to join them at the table?

“We have so many ‘real food heroes’ who are producing the world’s best seafood, award-winning wines and unbelievable dishes everyday – and it’s all available so close to Adelaide.

“Tasting Australia gives us the moment to celebrate fresh concepts, flavours and perspectives together.”

Bryant is joined at the helm in 2017 by newly appointed creative curator Jock Zonfrillo.

One of Australia’s most sought after andboundary-pushing contemporary chefs, Zonfrillo brings a formidable network of peers to the table along with a hunger to challenge practice and dining experiences.

Adelaide is home to Zonfrillo’s highly-acclaimed debut solo venture, Orana, and his work with native Australian ingredients and sustainable indigenous produce has garnered attention from critics worldwide.

Together the two self-proclaimed “pirates” of the cooking world are calling on esteemed colleagues and friends to join the celebration while blending a program of provocative, well-rounded and moreish events. Michelin-starred chefs, Wine & Spirits Top 100-listers, disco balls and Italian heritage will all be added to the Tasting Australia menu in 2017.

Hot 100 is also teaming up with Tasting Australia this year to celebrate a decade of outstanding wine and good times. This is your chance to taste more of Australia’s best…

So what are you waiting for?

Ross Ganf is Tasting Australia’s Event Manager

tastingaustralia.com.au