Coonawarra’s much-loved Wine Tasting Roadshow has wrapped up its 22nd year in spectacular fashion, with the final showcase held on Sydney Harbour delivering the most memorable event yet.
On Sunday 31 August, more than 350 guests boarded the Starship Sydney Harbour Cruise to sample wines from 20 Coonawarra producers, enjoying over 150 wines against the backdrop of iconic harbour views. With clear skies and perfect conditions, it was the first time in the Roadshow’s history that the event was hosted off land – and it proved to be an overwhelming success.
“The event was nothing short of magic,” said Emma Bowen, owner and winemaker at Bowen Estate. “To pour our wines while gliding past the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, sharing the Coonawarra story with such an enthusiastic crowd – it was a proud and memorable moment for us all,” commented Mrs Bowen.
The Sydney Harbour finale was the culmination of a record-breaking Roadshow program that in 2025 expanded to include a dedicated regional Victorian series in June, visiting Ballarat, Geelong, Hamilton and Warrnambool. This was followed by the August showcases in the metro centres of Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Sydney, including a stop in Noosa (for the 2nd consecutive year).
Collectively, the series attracted over 2,000 wine lovers across the country, providing a unique opportunity to connect with producers, explore Coonawarra’s famed Cabernet Sauvignon alongside a diverse range of varietals, and experience the passion and innovation driving the region.
Coonawarra Vignerons Marketing and Events Manager, Heidi Guyett, travelled with the contingency of vignerons to deliver the events and is thrilled with the success of the 2025 Roadshow, describing it as a milestone year for the region.
“To see such strong interest from wine lovers across the country, engaging with Coonawarra’s producers and their wines – from regional towns to capital cities – is incredibly rewarding.”
“Taking the Roadshow on the water in Sydney for the first time was an incredible milestone. It speaks to the creativity of our community and the appetite Australians have for discovering Coonawarra wines in new and exciting ways. After 22 years, this series continues to go from strength to strength,” said Mrs Guyett
With record attendance, glowing feedback, and a milestone year of innovation, the 2025 Roadshow has further cemented its reputation as one of Australia’s premier regional wine showcases.
Image credit: Wendell Toedoro
