We love animals and we love wine. Put them together and you get Wine & Wildlife, a wholesome winter event at Healesville Sanctuary. Over one weekend in July, you’ll discover tasty drops from 18 local wineries, breweries and distilleries. As you sip, wander around the Sanctuary and admire koalas, dingoes and more. After that, warm up by the bonfire and listen to live music. Wine & Wildlife will take place on Saturday July 22 and Sunday July 23.
Wine & Wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary
This fun event is coming to Healesville as part of Fireside Yarra Valley, a winter festival that celebrates the region with wine and culinary experiences.
The wine tastings will start at 10:30am on both days, however, Healesville Sanctuary is open from 9am. Arrive early and look at the animals before the event starts, or, grab a wine and explore the Sanctuary throughout the day.
Each ticket holder will receive their own BPA-free, reusable wine glass for tastings. Try offerings from producers around the region, including:
- Banks Botanicals
- Boat O’Craigo
- CherryHill Orchards
- De Bortoli Wines
- Four Pillars
- Greenstone Vineyards
- Helen and Joey Estate
- Jayden Ong Wine
- Matilda Bay
- Oakridge Estate
- Payten & Jones Wine
- Punt Road Wines & Napoleone Cider
- Spots Drop
- St Huberts/Notes Wine
- Sutherland Estate
- Tokar Estate
- Watts River Brewing
- Zonzo Estate
Non-alcoholic options will also be available, so you don’t have to worry about missing out if you’re a designated driver, participating in Dry July, or simply prefer not to drink.
Throughout the Sanctuary, there will also be a range of hearty winter food available for purchase. Look forward to treats from Babaji’s South Indian Street Food, The Greatest Doughman, Lady Paella, Little Yarra Crêperie, Stone and Crow artisan cheese and hot chips.
Then, hang out by a Teepee, warm up next to a roaring fire, and relax to the sounds of live acoustic music.
More about Wine & Wildlife
This event helps Healesville Sanctuary support their wildlife hospital, the Australian Wildlife Health Centre. They treat thousands of wild animals every year, as well as look after the health of Sanctuary residents. There’s a newly renovated gallery space inside the hospital, which allows you to see first-hand all of the important work that happens in the centre. After enjoying a day of wine tasting, you can certainly go home happy, knowing that you’ve supported local animals.