Visit Crush 2018 and Learn Why South Australians are Crushing on Adelaide Hills Wine

It’s going to be a hot one everywhere in Adelaide this long weekend, so why not head for the hills, visit Crush 2018 and chill out with some great wine?

Those in the know will be heading for the hills this long weekend to soak up some of the legendary Adelaide Hills winery hospitality as they visit the exciting South Australian summer wine festival, Crush 2018. Spread over the three day January long weekend, this year’s event will largely go ahead, despite the scorching weather predicted. Some venues have cancelled some events, some have extended their trading hours so that visitors can take advantage of the cooler conditions later in the day, and some have taken steps such as installing misters to ensure that those who visit Crush 2018 will be as cool as possible.

You can visit the official Crush website for full details of events, and check individual winery websites to confirm their listed events, but here’s my tips for some of the best spots to chill out, cool down and refresh yourself during the festival.

With Everything Old is New Again, Mt Lofty Ranges Vineyard is offering vintage live music, an old fashioned cocktail bar, misting facilities and a two course lazy lunch every day over the long weekend.
(Lunch $60 per person, bookings essential.)

Or, if you’re very quick, you might just be able to snare a spot or two at their fabulous eight course candlelit dinner on Saturday night. Chef Adam Bowden (ex Ritz Hotel London) will be recreating some of the famous and fabulous Ritz classics and matching the dishes with award winning single vineyard back vintage wines.
(Dinner – strictly limited and almost booked out, $195 per person.)

Without even a hint of a blush, Howard Vineyard will be turning pink for the day on Saturday 27 January, with Rosé. Repeat. They’re encouraging guests to dress in pink and white as they sip rosé in the shade, and enjoy some of chef Heather Day’s delicious Asian-based menu. They have extended their trading hours to 9pm on Saturday and are also offering misters to make sure you keep your cool.
($10 per person – and you get to keep your glass.)

Goldings Wines have modified their Crush event and will be moving their live music and special Spanish Crush menu out of the sun and into the Barn and tasting room, where they have installed air conditioning for the day. The special menu will be on offer all weekend, but space will be limited so plan to arrive early!
($10 per person, including the glass.)