Barton Jones, Neilson Estate & Briery Estate – Avon Valley Vintage Festival 2013
I decided to take a drive today out to Northam in the Avon Valley today to check out the Easter weekend Vintage Festival. The festival was held at the Northam Recreation Centre (about an hour and a half drive from Perth) and it was AU$10 to enter. From antiques to swing dancers to vintage clothing and market stalls, there was something for everyone. My thing was the wine tasting!
It was a pretty low-key laidback event, perfect for a chilled out day trip. The 3 wineries attending the festival with stalls were Barton Jones Wines from the Geographe region, Neilson Estate from the Swan Valley and Briery Estate from Bindoon. They were all super friendly and excited to be showcasing their wines.
Barton Jones Wines
As Jackie put it, Barton Jones is the result of 2 crazy Brits! Owners, Jackie Barton and Adrian Jones have a passion for what they do and you can taste this through their range of wines. They have a style to suit everyone whether it’s from their fruit driven Blackboy Ridge range or their premium oaked Barton Jones range.
Top Picks: 2011 The Shilly Shally Chenin Blanc, AU$20& 2008 The Big Wig Shiraz, AU$25
Neilson Estate
Located in Western Australia’s oldest wine region, the Swan Valley, Neilson Estate can offer you a range of aged wines at affordable prices. Whether you’re in the mood for a 2007 Verdelho, a 2005 Shiraz or a 2004 vintage port, down-to-earth owners Jim and Jenny will be able to help you out.
Top Picks: 2007 Verdelho, AU$18 & 2008 Cabernet Merlot, AU$18
Briery Estate
Christine and Ron began Briery Estate in 1994 in Bindoon. Alongside growing well known grape varieties they have also branched out to create stunning wines from Hungarian varieties Harslevelu and Furmint. Each wine and its label are full of stories which Christine and Ron are happy to share with you from Bullamakanka to Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.
Top Pick: 2009 Fermento AU$18
For more information on the Avon Valley Vintage Festival please click here.
