The Hunter Valley’s most spectacular winter event, Burning of the Barrel, returns to Glandore Estate on Saturday 28 June… and, it promises an unforgettable evening of fire, food and fine wine.
Glandore’s chief winemaker Duane Roy said he was looking forward to another fantastic year.
“There’s just something about sitting back with a good glass of wine and watching a fire dance and move,” Duane told The Newcastle Weekly.
“Every year we light the fire in a unique way; one year we used a flaming arrow and now we use fireworks.
“They cascade over the bonfire and ignite it in the most dramatic way.”
Once the sun goes down, the ceremonial barrel is set alight in a dazzling fire show that marks the end of the vintage season, followed by a stunning fireworks display under the stars.
Duane says the idea for this incredibly unique event originated from his own happy memories.
“It stems from my childhood growing up in Victoria, and the simple joy of sitting around a bonfire at night with family and friends,” hee xplained.
“In 2012, I decided to invite a few members to join me for a wine and some homemade soup for the inaugural burning of the barrel event.
“Since then, it has grown into what it is today and has been voted one of the top wine events in the world.”
Live music from funk favourites Sneaky Freakers and Sydney’s Chaperone will keep the energy high, while a Welcome to Country by Wonnarua Elder James Edwards and didgeridoo performance by Richie Lawton adds cultural depth.
“The magic of this event is that there’s something for everyone,” Duane said.
“Whether it’s couples having a quiet glass of wine under the stars or families toasting marshmallows with the kids, it’s about bringing people together for a fantastic night.
“We know it’s special as we’ve even hosted four beautiful marriage proposals over the years!”
Barrel Burner tickets are $195 for adults with teen tickets (ages 10–17) at $95, children (ages 4–9) $60, and under 4s are free.
Tickets include a glass of award-winning wine and souvenir glass to take home, a cheese board and a generous “all night” fireside grazing menu showcasing local produce and hearty winter favourites.
Glandore Cellarhand Members can also book to enjoy an exclusive Firestarter Lunch beforehand, a five-course flame-cooked degustation with rare wines, hosted by Duane.
And, if guests want to keep the party going, why not extend the weekend with Slow Burn Sunday, a relaxed recovery morning with bacon and egg rolls, live music and coffee ($15 per person).
Don’t miss this magical, warming midwinter celebration under the stars with a stunning Hunter Valley backdrop.
For tickets and details, visit glandorewines.com/burning-of-the-barrel.
For more stories:
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
