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Coming up on Friday 16 May - 'La Cantina Winery'

29/4/2025

 
This month we will be off to visit La Cantina Winery in the King Valley on Friday the 16th of May. This is a family-owned vineyard with a long Italian heritage. The Corsini Family have been farming in the King Valley for about 60 years. The wines they make are a little different in that they are preservative free, meaning no hang over, well maybe a smaller hang over depending how much is drunk. There will be a tasting fee of $5.00 for those tasting, payable on the day.

Following the tastings, lunch will be at the Mountain View Hotel a short drive away in Whitfield. The hotel is owned by the Pizzini family who also own a winery in the region. For those who have never eaten here the food is of a very high standard at reasonable pub prices.

The group will be meeting at the Benalla Seniors and Community Centre car park at 10.00 am as usual before proceeding to the winery. 

Garry Smith

March - John Gehrig's Winery, Oxley

30/3/2025

 
This month’s outing was to Gehrig’s winery at Oxley. the winery established by John Gehrig in 1976. Gehrig’s have another winery in Rutherglen and more recently purchased Mt Prior vineyard, which they plan to turn into a tourist venue.

For something a little bit different we also organised lunch at the winery provided by King River Cafe. Meghan, the wife of John Gehrig’s son Ross, was our host for the day, organising the wine tasting and the lunch.
A long table was beautifully set up along the decking overlooking the King River ambling by, green lawn stretched down to trees lined river completing the picture-perfect views.
The weather was fine for our outdoor lunch. I don't know how they managed it, but our hosts apparently arranged for annoying insects to stay away for the afternoon. The wines were many and varied, including one made by Ross and Meghan’s 8-year-old daughter - it seems the families wine making passion is in the blood. 

There will not be a wine appreciation outing for April due to both Easter and Anzac Day falling on Fridays. The next one will be on May 23, venue to be confirmed, so stay tuned and all have a wonderful Easter!


Garry Smith

February - Baileys Winery at Taminick and the Mokoan Hub Cafe

25/2/2025

 
The first outing for the year reminded Carolyn and I why we took the Convenors' role on. A positive and happy group of people always up for a chat and out to enjoy themselves.

​Baileys provided a great setting with lots of history. Varley Bailey purchased the land in 1870 and produced the first wine in 1880, the year they hanged poor Ned. Some of the buildings date back to those early days and there are some interesting museum pieces in the Tasting area.  
​Everyone seemed to enjoy the various wines on offer and several of the group left with boxes of wine in hand
​The lunch venue at Mokoan Hub  is spacious with great views over lake Mokoan.  Everyone seemed to enjoy their meal and there was lots of conversation.
Our next outing is planned for 28th of March - note the change of date from the original schedule. We will be visiting John Gehrig Wines at Oxley, with wine tasting from about 11 am and a meal provided on site for $20 per head.  The venue is in a beautiful setting and lunch will be on the deck overlooking the gardens. Menu offered is 
Beef Lasagne 
or
Mushroom and leek risotto

2 types of salad  
Green salad
and 
Pumpkin and pine nut spinach 
​

House made Bread
Garry Smith
Photos:  Bev Thornell (U3A Benalla Facebook Page)

Our first outing for 2025 - 'Taminick Cellars'/'Mokoan Hub Cafe'

25/1/2025

 
We are into a new year and as new convenors we are excited and a little scared about organising the first outing for the year.

​It is planned for Friday the 21st of February with wine tasting at Taminick Cellars followed by lunch at Mokoan Hub Cafe.

As usual it is planned to meet at the seniors' carpark at 10 am. Lunch is booked for around 12 to 12:30.

We hope to see as many of the regulars as well as lots of new faces. Further detail and reminders will be provided closer to the date.

Garry and Caroline Smith

"Nicole was thrilled with her gorgeous hand-printed silk scarf"

9/12/2024

 
Following Nicole’s final newsletter report as Convenor of Wine Appreciation last month, our avid photographer Bev Thornell posted on FB that the group had a most enjoyable lunch at the King River Café on Friday 22 November, where Heather Rogers

​....“thanked Nicole for doing such a sterling job of plotting a year of monthly Winery/Cafe outings”.

Following the U3A Benalla Christmas Lunch on Friday 29th November, Bev posted:

“The U3A break up at Euroa’s Seven Creeks Hotel was a great success, thanks to Nicole.
We all enjoyed a 2-course meal (with drinks!) and a lot of socialising.

Wilma Green had organised a lovely card and present for Nicole, on completing her final year as Wine Appreciation Convenor.  As you can see in the photo, Nicole was thrilled with her gorgeous hand-printed silk scarf.
​In 2025, Nicole will be handing the baton to Gary and Carolyn Smith. We are all looking forward to another year of Wining & Dining under their leadership.”

Thank you so much Nicole, for convening the Wine Appreciation Group for the past three years, and thanks also to Bev Thornell, for your atmospheric photographs of Wine Appreciation’s winery visits on Facebook.

King River Cafe celebratory November lunch....

23/11/2024

 
​"As our October Wine Appreciation day unfortunately had to be cancelled, Nicole kindly organised a November lunch at King River Cafe in Oxley. Twenty U3A members enjoyed a delicious 2-course, plus coffee, lunch...drinks extra!. The noise level rose in the crowded cafe, as we caught up with members we hadn't seen for two months. On behalf of the Wine Appreciation group, Heather thanked our Convenor, Nicole, for doing such a sterling job of plotting a year of monthly Winery/Cafe outings. 
Picture
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In 2025, Nicole will be handing the baton to Gary and Carolyn Smith, who are pictured above with Nicole (middle). We are all looking forward to another year of Wining & Dining under their leadership.

Bev Thornell"  (From Facebook)

A stormy October day cancellation replaced by a celebratory lunch at the King River Cafe on 22 November...

23/10/2024

 
Sadly, our outing on Friday 18th, our last one for the year, had to be cancelled due to the weather forecast of severe storms.  

So, I have organised lunch at King River Café in Oxley on Friday 22nd November at 1200.  If you haven’t already advised me that you are coming, could you please let me know by Sunday 17th.

We will meet at the Café. 

As you know I have decided to ‘retire’ from Convening this Group.  I have had a great time and enjoyed every one of our outings and being with you all. 

Good news is that we have new Convenors for the Group for 2025.   They are Gary and Carolyn Smith.   Thank you very much both of you for putting your hands up.

​Nicole McFarlane

September - Morrisons Winery and Vintage Hall Cafe, Glenrowan

23/9/2024

 
​Our morning of wine tasting on Friday 20 September was held at Morrisons of Glenrowan, situated on the slopes of the Warby Ranges.  The cellar door is located high on the property, surrounded by a lovely native garden and has magnificent views over the countryside.  It is hard to believe it was once a quarry.     Diane made the first vintage in 1999 and in 2001 both Diane and Bob completed a 12 month wine making course. Their production has increased from 60 litres in 2000 to 8000 litres today.   There are three whites and a Rose, many varieties of reds, a Muscat and Tawny Port.
Both Diane and Bob are welcoming and informative hosts.

After tasting and purchasing many wines, we made our way to the Vintage Hall Café and with 27 in the group we rather took over the café.   The staff are friendly and the food very good.
 
Our October visit on 18th is to Michelini Cellars, 213 Great Alpine Road, Myrtleford.   There is a $10 tasting charge and I would appreciate you having the money to give me when we meet in the carpark because to hold the booking, I have had to pay when confirming the numbers.      We then move onto our favourite place, the King River Café in Oxley.  Lunch is alternate drop main and dessert for $36 including good coffee to finish!!
As this will be our last outing as a group for the year, and my last one as Convenor, I look forward to seeing you all.
 
We will meet in the Seniors car park at 10.00.          RSVP by Sunday 13th October by text to 0428 696 408 or email [email protected].   Until then, stay safe and have fun.
 
The Convenor position is still open.   A little history about this group – it started 25 years ago and has run continuously since (except for Covid).   I really need someone to step up and take it on, two would be good.   It is not hard.  I tend to spend a couple of hours at the end of January researching cellar doors, email them with proposed dates and when that is confirmed contact somewhere local for lunch.    


Nicole McFarlane

Our August adventure - Red Feet Winery in the King Valley

20/8/2024

 
​​Our August adventure was to Red Feet Winery in the King Valley.   After battling heavy rain, we arrived at the cellar door situated on the top of a hill with a magnificent view over the valley had it not been raining!!!
 
The winery started in 2010, when Megan and her two brothers started planting three rows of Sangiovese and every year have added a few more.  Currently, they have 1.2 acres of Sangiovese, 0.6 acres of Nebbiolo, a little Tempranillo and Zinfandel.
 
Vince was our host for the day and started us with a lovely Riesling ending with a good Shiraz, having tasted a lot more in between!!   Although the day was cold and wet, the cellar door (a large lined shed) was very comfortable with a lovely log fire.
(Click on photograph to see full image)
We followed this by lunching at the Mountain View/Whitfield hotel which, as always, served a delicious lunch.   Again a cosy atmosphere with a log fire and good company making for a very pleasant day.
 
Next month, Friday 20th September, we are off to Morrisons Winery,  30 Kays Lane, Glenrowan, followed by lunch at  the Vintage Hall Café in the main street of Glenrowan.
 
Meeting in the Senior’s Car Park at 1015  -  RSVP to me at [email protected] or text 0428 696 408 by Sunday 16 September.
 
PS. 2025   As much as I have enjoyed convening these outings and spending time with such a great group of people, I am unable to do so next year.  Therefore, I am asking you to consider taking on this position.   It would work well with two people.   Any questions please contact me.   I look forward to being rushed off my feet!!!

​Nicole McFarlane

July - Delatite Winery, Mansfield with lunch at the Delatite Hotel

26/7/2024

 
Friday 19th July saw us trekking to the high country (rugged up) to Delatite Winery at Mansfield.   The new cellar door is architecturally designed and striking with views over the valley and as far as Mt. Buller when there is no mist!  There was a very long list of wines – we had to choose five for tasting, a rather difficult decision.   Our very delightful host, Renata, spoke to us about the wines, how they are grown using biodynamic principles and made with minimal intervention. ​
​We then moved to the Delatite Hotel in Mansfield for a very enjoyable pub lunch.
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On Friday 16th August we are off to Red Feet Winery at 49 Cemetery Lane, King Valley.   This will be followed by lunch at the Mountain View Hotel, Whitfield.

Meet in the Seniors Car Park at 10:15 am. Please RSVP by Sunday 11th  August to [email protected] or text to 0428 696 408.


Nicole McFarlane

June - Eagle Range Estate Winery, Ovens Valley

30/6/2024

 
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​On a lovely crisp! sunny Friday in June we ventured forth to the Ovens valley, specifically to the Eagle Range Estate Winery.    Situated on the side of a hill, we had a lovely view over the valley while we enjoyed our tasting.
Our very personable host, Frank, explained how he makes his wines without any additives.  He has different varieties that he grows, two of which are the lesser known Saperavi and Montepulciano, along with Merlot, Cab Sav and Shiraz, the latter two being vegan friendly.  His Riesling was quite unusual and very enjoyable. 

Our next winery visit on Friday 19th July is to Delatite Winery, 390 Pollards Rd, Mansfield with lunch to follow at the Delatite Hotel.

We will meet in the Seniors Car Park at 10.00.     Please let me know by Sunday 14th July if you will be coming, RSVP to [email protected] or text 0428 696 408.
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"Tempranillo was Andi's choice of wine!"
Nicole McFarlane
Photographs:  Bev Thornell

May - 'Willem Kurt Winery, with lunch at the Nicholas Hotel'

24/5/2024

 
​​Our visit this month was to a little known boutique winery called Willem Kurt, just outside of Beechworth.  Set high on a hill with great views, Daniel the owner, labourer and winemaker told us the history of his vineyard.  

Having worked in the Yarra Valley and at Gapsted winery he wanted to branch out on his own, and so in 2017 purchased the land and started planting his grapes.        

He makes four styles of wine, Vermentino, Chardonnay, Rose and Syrah with Sangiovese coming soon.
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Our very enjoyable lunch was had at the historic Nicholas Hotel that has an amazing collection of old Beechworth photos.   A bit of retail shopping followed.
 
Next month we will be visiting Eagle Range Estate Vineyard at 228 Happy Valley Road, Ovens, with our lunch being free choice in Myrtleford.

Please RSVP by Sunday 16 June on [email protected] or text 0428 696 408. Meeting in the Seniors car park at 10 am
 
Nicole McFarlane 

May - Willem Kurt Wines and the Nicholas Hotel, Beechworth...

21/5/2024

 
Bev's visit photo gallery and notes on May's visit from our Facebook page...
"This month, the U3A Wine Appreciation group visited a little-known Winery, Willem Kurt Wines in the Beechworth Region. At 600m above sea level, this small family-run boutique winery produces award winning cool climate wines. Accompanied by the proverbial friendly winery dog, we all squeezed into the small Cellar Door for tastings of Chardonnay, Vermentino, Syrah and Rose, introduced by our host, Owner/Winemaker Daniel Balzer. The extensive views from the Terrace stretched as far as Mt.Buller (on a clear day!). It was only a short return drive to Beechworth, for lunch at the historic Nicholas Hotel. Seated in the plush Dining Room, surrounded by hundreds of historic black & white photographs of Bechworth, we were able to socialise over delicious food and drink. Thank you Nicole for arranging another enjoyable and interesting Wine Appreciation outing."  Bev Thornell

April's winery visit to Buller's winery "was excellent"!

25/4/2024

 
I thought last month’s winery visit was really, really good, but this month, at Buller’s Winery, was excellent.   Again another beautiful day and standing in the sun we were entranced as Peter, our host, gave a very interesting and informative talk about the beginnings of the winery.  The first plantings were in 1920 and today, over half of those original plantings are still producing intensely concentrated low yielding fruit that is the hallmark of the Buller Wines portfolio.   There was a great selection of wines available for tasting and as we wandered into the original winery, a few bottles came along too!! This is where they now age their fortified wines and also have a gin distiller.
Photographs - Bev Thornell, Nicole McFarlane
​​Lunch followed at Poachers Paradise Hotel on Main St Rutherglen, seated on their deck.  A wide ranging menu with everyone enjoying the meal they had ordered.   Clean plates were evident!!
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Next month, Friday 17th May, we are off to William Kurt Wines at 365 Buckland Gap Road, Beechworth.      Lunch at Hotel Nicholas, 1A Camp St Beechworth.

Normal meeting procedure at the Seniors Carpark, 10.00am.   Please let me know by Sunday 12th May.

Nicole McFarlane

April - de Bortoli Winery, Rutherglen

23/3/2024

 
On a glorious Autumn day, we headed north to de Bortoli Winery in Rutherglen.   What a wonderful old Heritage building it is having been built in 1886, huge beams and pillars.   We were sat at tables in the art gallery section and looked after by two very knowledgeable and welcoming ladies, Beth and Bernie.    The wines are of Italian varieties, with a really enjoyable Prosecco that many of us purchased.    We then wandered up the road to the Pickled Sisters Cafe and, as always, had a delicious lunch.  
​Next month we will be going to Buller Wines, 2804 Federation Way, Rutherglen on Friday 19th April.  There is a $10 tasting fee.   As yet I am unable to confirm a lunch venue, but it will be in the email reminder I send around.
 
Meeting as usual in the Seniors Car Park at 10.00am.   Please RSVP by Sunday 14th April.


Nicole McFarlane
Photographs:  Bev Thornell

Squires Winery... "not snobby wines, just wines to be enjoyed"

20/2/2024

 
​Our first outing for the year, 32 of us ventured forth to Squires Winery at Esmond outside of Yarrawonga.   Situated on the banks of the Ovens River, tables are set out under the gum trees on the lawn or on the raised deck, as well as, long tables inside which was where we enjoyed our wine tasting and fabulous lunch.   Paul Squires has a laid back attitude to wines and life and with a sense of humour made the day relaxing and very enjoyable for us all.  They have only been open for three years and the tasting room/restaurant is in Paul’s converted tractor shed!  The wines vary from Prosecco to Reserve Durif and in Paul’s words ‘ they are not snobby wines, just wines to be enjoyed’.  It was great to see many new faces in the group.
Next month, 15th March, we are off to de Bortoli’s Wines, 13-35 Drummond Street, Rutherglen and lunch at the Pickled Sisters cafe, 121 Main Street, Rutherglen.    There will be $10 tasting charge and 10% discount on purchases.
 
As usual I will need RSVPs by Sunday 10th March by email or text to 0428 696 408 please.
 
We will meet in the Seniors Car park at 10.00am.


Nicole McFarlane
​
Photographs this month - Andi Stevenson, Denise Jarvis, Nicole McFarlane, Wendy Sturgess

Vale Keith Rogers 1942 - 2023

12/2/2024

 
Keith Rogers, who passed away on December 18 2023, was a member of U3A Benalla from 2013 to 2023.  A lover of fine wines, Keith for many years co-convened Benalla’s Wine Appreciation group with his wife Heather and Noel Meagher.  The following presentation, which begins with a photograph taken at Booth's Winery, Taminick,in September 2016 and concludes with a group photo taken in April 2023 at Gapsted Winery, reflects upon Keith's contribution to Wine Appreciation, both as a co-convenor for many years and in later years as a group member.   RIP Keith. 
Photographs - Bev Thornell, Terry Dillon, Andi Stevenson, Bev Lee.

Squires Winery, Esmond (Yarrawonga) on Friday 16 February

28/1/2024

 
Welcome back and welcome to our new members.   I look forward to exploring new wineries and eateries in North East Victoria with you. 

Our first sojourn will be on Friday 16th February to Squires Winery at 6900 Murray Valley Highway, Esmond (Yarrawonga).   After the tasting we will have lunch in their onsite restaurant overlooking the river. 

Our meeting place is the Senior’s car park at 10.00am.   If everyone could meet there this month until I know how many will require a lift, it would be appreciated.

Please reply by Sunday 11th February either by return email or phone/text 0428 696 408.
​
Nicole McFarlane

October - Chambers Rosewood Winery, Rutherglen

27/10/2023

 
​On Friday 20th we travelled to Rutherglen for our last group outing this year.  We were off to Chambers Rosewood Winery established in 1858 and being run by 6th Generation winemaker Stephen Chambers.
  
Held in their rustic cellar door, they have 32 wines available for tasting, however, 10 were selected for us.  Among them was the 2016 Sparkling Gouais.  The Gouais grape is picked from 120 year old vines which is a parent grape to Chardonnay and Riesling.   There were several other whites, reds, Muscat and Topaque.   A very relaxed, informative and enjoyable tasting.
 
Then off to Quartz Cafe for lunch at Cofield winery. 
 
We have had a fun year, tasted some very interesting wines and made new friends.  I hope all enjoyed themselves and I look forward to catching up at our first outing in March 2024 .
 
My thanks to Bev Thornell for her photography and posts on Facebook throughout the year.

Nicole McFarlane

September - Gracebrook Winery

24/9/2023

 
​Our morning of wine tasting was held at Gracebrook Winery located in the lovely King Valley. Set on the side of a hill, the cellar door is in the old converted stables and we looked out across the vineyard with the vines just barely coming into bud.   There was much clinking of bottles as people headed for their cars – so the wines were good.   Lunch was at the Mountain View Hotel in their very relaxing garden.
​October (20th) winery is Chambers Rosewood Vineyard on Barkly St Rutherglen.  Our Tasting is booked for 1100 and there is a $5 tasting charge.   Lunch will follow at the Quartz Cafe in Cofields Winery (previously called Footsteps) 341 Distillery Rd, Wahgunyah.

This will be our last outing as a group until March 2024 so I look forward to catching up with you all and our wayward travellers.
 
We will meet in the SENIORS car park at 10.00.          RSVP by Sunday  15th October to phone/text 0428 696 408 or email [email protected].   Until then, stay safe and have fun.

​Nicole McFarlane

*Photos of Gracebrook Winery and the Mountain View Hotel selected from Bev Thornell's Facebook post  on February 15 September: 
"U3A Wine Appreciation group drove up to the beautiful King Valley, to visit Gracebrook. This winery would have to enjoy the best views of the hills and mountains, rising from the fertile King Valley. After a wine tasting at the long bar, built from one slice of local Stringybark, we had time to sit out on the terrace to drink in (sorry!) the view. The winery was previously the 110 year-old rustic Gracebrook Stables, so it has capitalised on the historic ambiance. The owners, David and Rhonda Maples, have run Gracebrook for over a decade and their hospitality is legendary. Gracebrook does offer lunches, but Nicole had booked our sizeable group in to nearby Mountainview Hotel, where we were seated out on the terrace. It was a perfect day to dine al fresco. Thanks Nicole for organising the day out (it wasn't her fault one carload managed to get lost en route)."  Bev Thornell, FB, 15 Sept.

August - Maygar Hills Winery and Seven Creeks Hotel

26/8/2023

 
​​We headed south to the Strathbogie region and Maygar Hills winery with its spectacular vistas punctuated by rocky granitic outcrops.  Our host Jenny, was so welcoming and gave us a short history of Lt. Maygar, the name behind the winery.   Lt. Maygar was born on 26 May 1872 at Kilmore.  He enlisted in the Victorian Mounted Rifles to fight in the Boer War.  He arrived in South Africa in March 1901 and was immediately involved in several heavy actions. In August his column transferred to Natal and was constantly in action against strong Boer commando forces. It was during one of these intense actions that Maygar was awarded his Victoria Cross.  
 
Maygar Hills produces red wines and has won multiple trophies.   We tasted the 2018 and 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon and 2019 Reserve Shiraz.    Sadly the vineyard has been sold and so there are limited stocks now available.   Lunch was at Seven Creeks Hotel with its good food, friendly atmosphere and open fires.
Next month we are off to Gracebrook Winery, 4446 Wangaratta-Whitfield Rd, King Valley followed by lunch at Mountain View Hotel, 4 King Valley Road, Whitfield.
 
Meeting in the Senior’s Car Park at 1015 and RSVP to me at [email protected] or phone/text 0428 696 408 by Sunday 10th September.

​Nicole McFarlane

July - Piano Piano Vineyard and the King River Cafe

28/7/2023

 
​A very intimate and cosy wine tasting was held at Piano Piano Vineyard for our group.  The vineyard is situated in the Everton Upper area where the climate is perfect for the many varieties of grapes grown – from a delicious 2021 Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio to a Reserve Merlot and Shiraz.  Marc and Lisa were very generous hosts with Marc being the winemaker.   Lunch followed at our popular King River Cafe in Oxley.
On Friday 18th August we are off to Maygar Hills Winery, 115 Longwood-Mansfield Rd, Longwood East .  The tasting is booked for 11.00 and lunch for 12.15.
   
Lunch is at the White Hart Hotel, 63 Hill St, Longwood.  They are not doing lunches at the moment, however, for our group they are happy to open up.   We need a minimum of 25 – so early RSVPs please – it will be alternate main drop for $30 with dessert, tea/coffee extra.

Meeting in the Seniors Car park at 10.15 am.     

RSVP by Sunday 13th
to [email protected] or phone/text to 0428 696 408.


Nicole McFarlane

June - Anderson's Winery, Rutherglen and Pickled Sisters Cafe

23/6/2023

 
The weather held for us thankfully on Friday 16th June as we set off to Anderson’s Winery at Rutherglen, established in 1992 by Howard Anderson.  His daughter Christobelle, who had graduated with First Class Honours in Winemaking at Adelaide University, welcomed us to their cellar door.  They are known, and have won many awards, for their sparkling wines and I can understand why.  They are made in the traditional method and have the lightest of bubbles.  There is a good selection of whites and reds with all grapes being grown on their eight and half hectare property.   
​Our tasting was followed by a delicious lunch at Pickled Sisters in Rutherglen. 
 
Next month’s visit on Friday 21st July is to Piano Piano Winery at 852 Beechworth-Wangaratta Rd, Everton followed by lunch at the King River Cafe in Oxley.
 
Please note change of meeting place.   We will now meet in the Seniors Car Park , same time at 10.00 am. 
  
Please let me know by Sunday 16 July if you will be coming.  I notify our numbers to both venues on Monday morning.  RSVP to [email protected] or text 0428 696 408.


Nicole McFarlane

May - King River Estate Winery and the King River Cafe

27/5/2023

 
​A glorious day had 29 of us travelling to King River Estate Winery for this month’s tasting.   In a delightful setting, Karen, one of the owners, led us on a ‘how to make wine’ trip which proved fascinating and informative.   We tried many varieties of reds and whites, some of which had been produced from grapes grown on their Flying Duck vineyard next door.      Lunch followed at the King River Cafe where once again, we were well looked after.
Next month, Friday 16th June, we are off to Rutherglen.   Andersons Winery, 1619 Chiltern-Rutherglen Rd, followed by lunch at The Pickled Sisters Cafe, 121 Main St, Rutherglen.

If you will be coming, please let me know by the latest Sunday 11th June on [email protected] or text 0428 696 408.
​
Meeting in the car park behind Aldi at 10.00.

​Nicole McFarlane
Photographs:  Bev Thornell

April - Francesco Winery at Cheshunt & the Mountain View Hotel

23/4/2023

 
​A perfect Autumn day with the trees in all their glory was the setting for our drive to Francesco Winery at Cheshunt.  Jacob was our friendly host along with his Nona, Maria, who kept us supplied with salami, cheese and biscuits to enjoy with their delightful wines.

There was a good selection of wines and many a box was carried out at the end of our tasting!
Lunch was in the garden at Whitfield’s Mountain View Hotel where we all enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and good food.

Next month, 19th May, we will be off to King River Estate, 3556 Wangaratta-Whitfield Rd, Edi.   The tasting is booked for 11.00 with a $10 tasting fee refundable on the purchase of two bottles of wine.  

We will then move on to the King River Cafe.   If there are more than 20 of us attending lunch, there will be an alternating main course with tea or coffee at $28.00, and dessert if required on order for $9.00.

As usual we will meet in the car park behind Aldi at 10.00.  If you prefer to drive direct, please let me know.    RSVP by Sunday 14th either by return email or phone/text 0428 696 408.  

Nicole McFarlane
Photographs - Bev Thornell
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    About the Wine 
    Appreciation group...

    ​This group meets monthly for a trip to explore the wineries of the North East and learn more about the varieties of wines and the people who make them.  
    We meet once a month, usually on the third Friday, gathering at the Seniors' Car Park for car-pooling between 10:00 and 10:30 am.  The time will be advised separately each month.  Lunch is part of the excursion at a suitable venue.

    Convenors 2025

    Picture
    Carolyn Smith
    ​0438 478 828
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    Garry Smith
    ​0428 765 591

    Retiring Convenor 

    Picture
    Nicole McFarlane
    Convenor 2022 - 2024 
    Thank you, Nicole!

    Meeting Times

    3rd Friday
    10 am to 4 pm.

    Various venues.

    ​We now meet
     at the Seniors Car Park for car -pooling. 

    ​See Newsletter and website calendar for monthly starting times. 

    Wineries visited
    (being updated)

    All
    2017
    Alpine Valley
    Amulet Winery
    Anderson Winery
    Andrew Buller Wines
    Avenel
    Baileys
    Beechworth
    Cafe Fez
    Campbells
    Chateau Tahbilk Photos
    Chrismont
    Corowa
    Dal Zotto
    Delatite Winery
    Ferraro Wines
    Fowles Winery
    Gapsted Winery
    Glenrowan
    Gracebrook Winery
    Indigo Winery
    John Gehrig
    Jones Winery
    Keith Rogers
    King River Cafe
    King Valley
    La Cantina Winery
    Lake Moodemere Estate
    Longleat Winery
    Mansfield
    March 22
    Maygar Hills
    Michelini Wines
    Milawa
    Morrisons Of Glenrowan
    Murchison
    Myrtleford
    Oxley
    Pennyweight Winery
    Pfeiffer Wines
    Piano Piano Vineyard
    Pizzini
    Pizzzini Winery
    Politini
    Red Feet Wines
    Remembering Keith Rogers
    Rutherglen
    Sam Miranda Winery
    Squires Winery
    Taminick
    The Other Place Cafe
    Valley View Hotel
    Warrabilla Winery
    Whitfield Hotel
    Willem Kurt Winery

    Archives

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    November 2015
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    August 2015
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    January 2015

We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we meet and pay our respects to their elders - past, present and emerging.
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U3A Benalla & District Flier 2025
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Semester 1 Program Guide 2025
Semester 1 Timetable with Dates 2025
Developed and maintained by members, this website showcases U3A Benalla 
​Photographs - U3A members; Benalla Art Gallery website; ​Weebly 'Free' images;Travel Victoria and State Library of Victoria