The Ultimate Pinot Affair Weekend: Top Events to Experience in Geelong this weekend

Savour an array of Pinot-focused events, including masterclasses, tasting experiences, special lunches, and more.

Get ready to immerse yourself in a celebration of all things Pinot Noir as Geelong hosts the highly anticipated Pinot Affair weekend in May 2023, running 19 – 21. This highly anticipated wine-tasting event, now in its 4th year, showcases the world-class cool climate Pinot Noir of the Bellarine, Surf Coast, and Moorabool Valley of Geelong.

This event promises an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts, gastronomes, and lovers of all things Pinot.

With a wide array of events taking place across Geelong, we’ve curated a list of the top activities to ensure you make the most of your Pinot Affair weekend.

So, grab a glass of Pinot Noir and let’s explore the must-attend events!

BBQ, Blues and Pinot Noir at Bellarine Estate

Join Bellarine Estate Winery Saturday night the 20th of May for a night of BBQ, Blues and Pinot noir.

There will be a range of back vintage Pinot Noir on by the bottle and glass. Bellarine Estate’s Pinot Noir Gin will also be available by the bottle or try one of their specialty cocktails. Alister Turrill will be playing the blues for a truly memorable night.

Buy a ticket and find out more here.

Pinot Masterclasses

Expand your knowledge and refine your palate by attending the exclusive Pinot Masterclasses happening across the weekend. Led by renowned winemakers and industry experts, these classes delve into the nuances of Pinot Noir, exploring its different styles, regional variations, and aging potential. Learn to identify the characteristics that make a great Pinot and take your appreciation of this captivating varietal to new heights.

A real highlight will be Scotchmans Hill’s Pinot Noir Masterclass with Chief Winemaker, Robin Brockett. Here you’ll enjoy a Pinot Noir tasting of current and specially selected back vintages of some of Scotchmans Hill’s finest vintages. One of Australia’s pre-eminent Pinot Noir Winemakers, Robin Brockett will lead the Masterclass, answering any questions you may have.

Pinot Piazza at Austin’s Wines + 6Ft6 Wine

A real highlight of the weekend will be the exclusive event at Austin’s Wines. For one weekend, during the day on Saturday and sunday, the team are transforming the winery into an Italiano paradise, featuring delicious pasta dishes cooked up by the talented team at Pasta Face. You can expect mouth-watering options such as Gnocchi with Pinot Ragu, Meatball Sliders, and even delicious Cannoli to satisfy your sweet tooth.

As you savoir your meal and mingle with friends, you can enjoy the rich flavours of the signature Pinot Noir, perfectly paired with every dish. And with live music, the atmosphere will be buzzing with the sounds of Italia. The cellar door will be toasty warm and inviting, providing the perfect backdrop for a weekend of fun.

Table Bookings with A La Carte Menu from 11am to 4pm. Italian tunes by Francesco Music.

No ticket required – reservations open for lunch and wine tastings.

Lunch with the Winemaker: Gus del Rio

Meet the Del Rios winemaker Gus del Rio on 21 May and taste the beautiful range of past and present vintages of Pinot Noir between 2-4pm. However, it doesn’t have to end there join them for lunch and enjoy our amazing view, staff, and food.

WINE – del Rios will be offering a museum Pinot Noir tasting

FOOD – Regular a la carte menu

ACTIVITY – Sit down with the winemaker

Find out more here.

Pinot Tastings

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Pinot Affair by visiting the stunning wineries scattered across the Bellarine. These stylish venues provide an opportunity to taste an extensive selection of Pinot Noirs in a relaxed setting. Engage in conversations with fellow wine enthusiasts and swap recommendations as you savor the best Pinot wines in a convivial ambiance.

Spence Wines will host tutored Tasting of Selected Vintages on both days, Lethbridge @ Hat Rock Vineyard will host Pinot Noir International Benchmark Tasting on 20 May, Bellbrae Estate will host Premium & Museum Pinot Noir Flights for the duration, Mermerus will host Back Vintages with the Winemaker, Scotchmans Hill’s Wine Tasting Specialists will offer a special Pinot Noir Flight of current and back vintages, Terindah Estate will host a Guided Museum Wine Tasting, and Oakdene will host Pinot Affair Museum Flights & Tasting Experiences.

Pinot and Paella at del Rios