Tasting Australia returns in 2016

Tasting Australia, the previously biennial celebration of South Australian wine and food, will be an annual event from 2016. 

Organisers hope gourmets and wine enthusiasts from around the world will make their way to Adelaide and surrounding areas from May 1-8 next year to indulge in a program that will feature everything from coastal seafood feasts to wine masterclasses.

Traditionally held as a biennial event since its inception in 1997, the success of Tasting Australia (which really should be called Tasting South Australia) has triggered demand for the festival to evolve into an annual event. 

The event is billed as "a journey through South Australia's best produce from the hands of authentic food producers and chefs, celebrated by food heroes". 

The last event, in 2014, attracted around 50,000 people to over 80 events across the state, and each focused on “origins” by exploring the legacy and roots of South Australia's food and wine culture, honoring the history and personalities behind the culinary experiences.

The same creative team as in 2014 will remain at the helm of the festival in 2016. Simon Bryant, a celebrated local chef, and wine expert Paul Henry will remain as the event's creative directors, while Barossa foodie Maggie Beer is the event patron. 

“Plans for the 2016 festival are on track, and we can't wait to share the program with everyone over the coming months,” said Bryant. “We are excited and want everyone who comes and participates to eat, drink and celebrate with us to know the importance that a sense of place, history and culture has in forming South Australia's renowned food and wine identity.”
          
The 2016 Tasting Australia event will highlight South Australia's food and wine touring route, The Epicurean Way - the gastronomic journey that takes visitors on a self-drive adventure around four of South Australia's premier wine regions all in the one itinerary.

The festival will promote the touring route with a tour along the Epicurean Way – "curated" by by the event's creative directors.

Local gourmet producers participating include Lachlan Cowill (Hentley Farm), Tim Bourke (Southern Ocean Lodge), Peter Davies (KI Beehives) and Kris Lloyd (Woodside Cheese).

For more information on Tasting Australia visit www.tastingaustralia.com.au; and for more detail about South Australia visit www.southaustralia.com