Tasting Australia 2026: Our Top Picks
South Australian Tourism Commission
Experience the best of this year’s Tasting Australia Program
For close to three decades, Tasting Australia has shone a light on everything great about South Australia’s food and drink scene. Ahead of this year’s 10-day celebration from May 8–17, we’ve handpicked six of our favourite experiences you don’t want to miss
Grilled, Chilled & Shucked With The Freak
Wine isn’t just for snobs. Rieslingfreak has organised a laidback day of gourmet toasties, fresh oysters shucked on the spot and fruity Rieslings from their current collection for punters to enjoy. There will be live music all day and a roaring fire pit, with guests welcomed with a free glass of sparkling. Did we mention there’s also sweets from Browns Donuts? Delicious.
May 8 // Rieslingfreak, Barossa Valley
Hotpot Express
Hotpot is all the rage these days. The simple combo of tasty broths with meat and veggies is getting an Aussie makeover as part of this two-night takeover of Adelaide’s Mr Hotpoter. A host of famed Australian chefs are conjuring up a selection of small plates before delivering their take on the hotpot fad, with two drinks and dessert included in the ticket price.
May 11–12 // Mr Hotpoter, Adelaide
WAGYU FEAST AT VALE
Vale Brewing slings more than just beer, with the space home to the award-winning pavilion-style Vale Restaurant. Known for serving unforgettable meals with eye-popping views of the surrounding vineyards, this one-off event comprises a five-course menu celebrating premium wagyu beef. A welcome drink is offered upon entry, while you can get stuck into the entire Vale range during the evening feast.
May 15 // Vale Restaurant and Bar, Fleurieu Peninsula
Immersive Bites: A VR Culinary Exploration
This innovative event merges virtual reality with delicious tastings, resulting in a multi-sensory global food adventure. Michelin-starred French chef Hélène Darroze and acclaimed sushi master Yumi Shiba will be your VR guides, sharing the stories behind the dishes eaten in real time. All food is crafted by South Aussie chef Benjamin Sharp using local ingredients paired with regional wines.
May 15–16 // Alliance Française, Adelaide
Spitz And Spritz @ Lot.100
Spend the afternoon at one of Adelaide Hills most beautiful locations chowing down on beef, lamb, chicken and porchetta cooked over flames. A ticket gives access to all four food stations, including sides with each plate, and a curated spritz menu from Lot.100 and CIRCOLO that includes lemon, berry, tropical and seasonal flavours. There’ll also be live music, a Hole-In-One Golf Challenge and various lawn games. Great for those with kids or couples after a chill day of food and drink.
May 16 // Lot.100, Adelaide Hills
Tasting Table – Henschke
Anyone who’s ever had the good fortune of enjoying a glass of Henschke will understand why this tasting experience is in high demand. One of SA’s oldest wineries is offering vino enthusiasts the chance to taste a wide variety of classic Henschke drops, with winemaker Gwyn Olsen taking guests on a visceral journey through Henschke’s extensive range, including the 2004 and 2021 editions of Henschke Mount Edelstone Shiraz. Keep the party going with a visit to the nearby SOL Rooftop before spending the night at Eos by SkyCity.
May 17 // Station Road, Adelaide
Tasting Australia 2026 takes place from Friday 8 to Sunday 18 May. For more information, visit tastingaustralia.com.au.
