By KATH GANNAWAY
GRAPE Grazing is back.
The iconic, Yarra Valley, food and wine Grape Grazing Festival will return in February after a five-year break due to the devastating Black Saturday bushfires.
The festival is set to return in a re-invigorated three-day format showcasing the best of Yarra Valley food producers, restaurants, cider, beer and ale producers, as well as accommodation providers and wineries.
Considered the leading regional food, wine and tourism festival in Australia, it regularly attracted more than 20,000 visitors annually.
With more than 50 events taking place across the three days, February 14, 15 and 16, throughout the region it should be a fantastic summer weekend in the valley.
Plans include balloon flights, wine and food events including a masterclass and degustation dinner, picnic hampers, wood-fired pizzas, live music and much, much more.
A highlight will be the Grape Grazing A Day On The Green concert headlined by Jimmy Barnes.
Grape Grazing is the best way for people to experience the best of what the Yarra Valley has to offer – with so many local operators showcasing their unique gourmet produce – the fun, welcoming atmosphere making this an ideal festival for people of all ages.
The three-day festival takes in Valentine’s Day and there will be plenty of options for foodie lovers to engage in special, romantic dinners and events.
On the Saturday Healesville Memorial Hall will host the Small Producers’ Exhibit – where more than 15 winemakers will share their product from 11am to 7pm – a great place to start or finish a day in the Yarra Valley visiting other participating wineries and eateries.
The festivities continue into Sunday with an international flavour permeating throughout the valley.
The hardest thing about Grape Grazing 2014 will be choosing which of the many fantastic venues to visit.
Graze for more information at www.grapegrazing.com.au .
