An Irish Escape to Coonawarra: 8 Friends, 1 Incredible Tour.
- Sonja Gooding
- 10 hours ago
- 3 min read
Eight Irish friends, now proudly calling Melbourne home, left behind their busy routines for a weekend filled with laughter, stories, and world-class wine in Coonawarra. Having moved from Ireland nearly seven years ago, they carried with them the warmth and fun spirit that defines Irish culture. With six friends from Monaghan and the others from Limerick and Galway, it felt like a small piece of Ireland had landed in the Limestone Coast.
Welcoming the Group in Mount Gambier
Our day began in Mount Gambier, where we greeted the group with smiles and excitement.
The group’s energy was infectious, setting the tone for a day that promised great wine, delicious food, and even better company.
First Stop at Parker Estate
Our visit to Parker Estate was the perfect way to begin the day, setting the tone for a true Coonawarra wine experience.
The group was warmly welcomed and guided through one of Parker’s thoughtfully curated tastings. As the glasses were poured, our Irish guests began to discover the signature style that has made Parker Estate so respected: its elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, beautifully structured reds, and premium wines that truly reflect the richness of Coonawarra’s terra rossa soils.
This stop set the perfect tone for the day ahead, showcasing the quality and passion behind Coonawarra wines.
Lunch at Ottelia Restaurant
Next, we headed to Ottelia Restaurant, where the group indulged in the chef’s menu. Each dish was carefully crafted to highlight local ingredients and paired expertly with wines from the region. The long lunch was filled with lively conversation, plenty of laughter, and the kind of relaxed enjoyment that only good food and wine can bring.
Highlights from the meal included:
A starter of fresh, seasonal produce with delicate seasoning
Main courses featuring locally sourced meats and vegetables
Desserts that balanced sweetness with subtle textures
Ottelia’s warm hospitality and attention to detail made this meal a memorable part of the tour.
Afternoon Tastings
Balnaves
Our stop at Balnaves of Coonawarra was one of those moments where everything just came together. The warm welcome, the beautiful setting, and a lineup of wines that truly showcase the heart of Coonawarra.
As the glasses were poured, the group began to explore the region’s signature styles—elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, smooth reds, and beautifully balanced wines. There was plenty of discussion around the table, favourites quickly emerging, and of course, a few laughs along the way.
Di Giorgio Family Wines
Our stop at Di Giorgio Family Wines was relaxed and easygoing, the perfect way to slow down and enjoy the afternoon. The group loved the welcoming atmosphere, with the option to taste either inside the cosy cellar or out on the sunny lawn, surrounded by beautiful open space. A self-guided tasting paddle of wines gave everyone the chance to explore at their own pace, with plenty of laughter as favourites were chosen and shared. Great wine, great company, and a lovely moment to unwind together.
Final Stop at Wynns Coonawarra Estate
Our final stop at Wynns Coonawarra Estate was the perfect way to finish the day. As one of Coonawarra’s most well-known wineries, it was a great experience for our Irish guests to taste some of the region’s iconic wines.
They enjoyed a selection of current and vintage wines, taking in the rich flavours and smooth Cabernet Sauvignon that Wynns is famous for. It was the perfect ending.
Capturing Memories at Coonawarra Railway Siding.
No visit to Coonawarra is complete without a stop at the famous Railway Siding. Here, the group gathered for photos, smiles wide and spirits high. The siding, a symbol of the region’s history and connection to the land, provided the perfect backdrop for capturing memories.
The Journey back to Mount Gambier was filled with Irish Tunes and Laughter.
The highlight of the day was the journey home. Voices lifted in song, Irish tunes filled the bus. With shared roots and stories, the tour felt less like a trip and more like time spent with old friends.
Niamh summed it up perfectly when she said it was “great craic”—a day none of us will forget.
This tour of Coonawarra with eight Irish friends showed how wine, food, and friendship come together to create unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Limestone Coast offers a chance to connect with the land, the people, and the stories that make this region special.
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