Set against the beautiful backdrop of McLaren Vale Distillery, this immersive two-day festival returns on Father’s Day weekend, inviting visitors to experience the rich world of Australia’s most iconic fortified wines. Building on the success of its inaugural year and fresh from winning the Great Wine Capitals 2025 Award for Best Innovative Wine Tourism Experience, Neat Sips honors the heritage of fortified wine while welcoming new fans with open arms. 

Guided by festival patron James Godfrey, whose four decades of expertise span from cellar-hand beginnings in McLaren Vale to becoming one of Australia’s leading fortified winemakers, the event promises storytelling and craftsmanship of the highest order. 

Each ticket offers entry to the festival, a premium tasting glass, and a tasting card valid for five tastings from a diverse range of producers. Guests are invited to explore rare and exceptional fortified wines drawn from private cellars, including tawny, muscat, topaque, apera, vermouth, and beyond. The festival experience goes beyond tastings, featuring masterclasses led by fortified insiders who dive into the history, culture, and future of fortified wines, cocktail artistry, and regional specialities. 

Complementing the wines is a delicious lineup of live fire-cooked food, oyster pairings, cheese stalls, and other gourmet offerings designed to enhance the sensory journey. Live music fills the air, and a dedicated kids’ activity zone alongside a big screen broadcasting the footy ensures Neat Sips is a welcoming, family-friendly event. 

To make the weekend even more accessible and enjoyable, return coach transport is available from Adelaide venues, complete with drink vouchers for adults upon return. For those looking to stay and soak in the region, special accommodation offers provide comfortable, family-friendly lodging with all the essentials. 

Neat Sips is more than a festival—it is a vibrant celebration and storytelling revival that shines a spotlight on fortified wines, bringing together heritage, community, and flavor in a uniquely memorable experience set to become a highlight on Australia’s wine tourism calendar.

Proudly brought to you by McLaren Vale Distillery.

The listing of the Event by Wine Australia on the Australian Wine Events Page does not represent any endorsement or connection to the Event. Wine Australia accepts no responsibility or liability for the Event and / or for any inaccuracies in the Event listings on the Australian Wine Events Page. Please refer to the Event organiser’s website for further information or contact the Event organiser directly.