The forecast for Canberra’s first weekend in December is showing 100% chance of wine! And that’s because Sydney’s popular Wine Island event is coming to Canberra.

From Friday 2 to Sunday 4 December, Wine Island will float into our nation’s capital to take over Queen Elizabeth II Island (formerly Aspen Island) on Lake Burley Griffin. Giving visitors the chance to live on island time for the opening weekend of summer, enjoy cellar door experiences, DJ sets, gourmet food and island activities.

Included in the cellar door experiences will be a huge range of Australian winemakers from regions including the Hunter Valley, McLaren Vale, King Valley, Coonawarra and Alpine Valley. There will be plenty of locals too, including Contentious Character, Mount Majura, Lark Hill, Sholto Wines, Big River Distilling Co. and Bentspoke Brewing Co. If you’re dreaming of an overseas escape, there will also be the opportunity to kick back in the Greek Beach Club featuring the finest wine, beer and ouzo from Drink Greek and a DJ to set the paradise vibes with spinning live tunes.

For food, pair your drop of choice with a cheese and charcuterie platter or tacos from Olleyville, your favourite burger from Grease Monkey or freshly shucked oysters if you’re in VIP, with plenty more to be announced soon.

With activities also part of the holiday itinerary, choose from a gin class, Yoga + Unwined on the beach, a Pinot & Picasso art class or a Wine Selectors wine education masterclass where you will have to put your inner vino detective to the test to reveal mystery wines.

Available over the course of a three-hour session time, tickets start from $80 including tastings and a wine masterclass with other activities available to add on. Pre-sale tickets go on sale on Monday 19 September and to the general public on Wednesday 21 September.

Tickets are limited, so gather your friends for the best Canberra island day this summer. To sign up for pre-sale visit https://www.frontiertouring.com/wineisland