Warming up by the fire is about to reach new means with the return of the annual Burning of the Barrels at Eldredge Vineyards in the northern Clare Valley region.
The mighty bonfire will draw the Clare Valley SCA Gourmet Week’s happening to a close on Saturday 27 May, with a wholesome evening in store after last year’s alight barrels attracted over 350 locals and tourists to the Eldredge paddock.
But it ain’t all about pyrotechnics, the celebration begins at 3pm, where live music by local duo, Paul & Andy can be enjoyed, and mouth-watering BBQ fare can be devoured by Confidential Catering.
A scattering of firepits will be at the ready to keep you toasty too, aided by a glass of vino or beer in hand, until the marvellous bonfire goes up in flames at 6pm’s sundown.
But why? You may ask. Well, the Burning of the Barrels signifies the end of the grape vintage. All the picking, harvesting, and crushing has been complete, and the elbows can finally be regreased.
Two Bluechip Shiraz barrels that have seen better days shall be plonked on top of a ten-foot-high pile of pallets and wood, with some mesmerising inferno formations to follow.
The free, family-friendly event also means that marshmallow toasting sticks for the kids are up for grabs – oozy messes welcome.
While Elredge Vineyards’ Burning of the Barrels is a free soiree, bookings are essential for catering purposes and so forth.