After a highly successful debut last year, the Full Moon Wine Festival by Luna Wine Store is back, promising another extraordinary experience for wine enthusiasts. This time, the festival takes place amidst the charming backdrop of the popular Eltham Hotel, offering attendees a delightful country setting. On Saturday, May 6, the Northern Rivers’ annual natural wine festival will welcome 30 of Australia’s most exciting winemakers and natural wine importers.
Organized by renowned sommeliers Russ Berry from Luna Wine Store, James Audas, and Tom Sheer from Luna Wine Store, Bar Heather, and Lo-fi Wines, the Full Moon Wine Festival aims to bring together the community and celebrate the company of some of the country’s most exciting wine producers. Beyond tasting exceptional wines, the festival aims to create an environment where people can engage, learn, ask questions, and even have a dance.
Luna Wine Store, located in Byron Bay, is the region’s sole natural wine store, specializing in independent organic, biodynamic, and natural wine producers. The Full Moon Wine Festival is committed to empowering all wine drinkers through informed choices. It values truth, authenticity, and candid conversations about wine, while also focusing on showcasing truly exceptional wines and fostering a sense of community.
Ticket holders, priced at $75, will enjoy a 3-hour tasting session from 2-5 pm at the historic Eltham Hotel. They will have the opportunity to sample wines from various regions across the country. Winemakers from Tasmania, Margaret River, Adelaide Hills, Gippsland, Barossa, Mount Gambier, and many more will be present. Notable names such as Dan Graham from Sigurd Wines, Rory Duggan from R. D’Meure, and importers like Lo-Fi Wines, Liz Carey from Vivant, and Giorgio de Maria will grace the event.
Promising an afternoon and evening filled with high energy, beautiful wines, great music, and engaging conversations, the Full Moon Wine Festival provides a unique chance to connect face-to-face with those deeply connected to the land they craft their produce from. After the tasting session concludes, guests can continue the festivities well into the night at Luna’s ‘Baller Bar,’ which will be serving unique and rare natural wines from around the world by the glass.
To satisfy hunger cravings, attendees can indulge in delectable food options from the Eltham Hotel or savor the creations of local favorite Ciao Mate by Chef Matt Stone. Throughout the night, live music performances and DJs will keep the ambiance lively and vibrant. Notably, all the wines featured during the festival will be available for takeaway purchases, allowing guests to relish their favorite discoveries beyond the event.
For convenience, charter bus rides are available for booking, dropping guests centrally in Bangalow or Byron Bay at 7 pm or 9 pm for an additional fee of $12.50. This service ensures that attendees can enjoy the festival responsibly without worrying about transportation logistics.
The Full Moon Wine Festival is not just an event; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Australia’s thriving wine scene. It invites wine enthusiasts, novices, and curious individuals alike to come together, explore exceptional wines, and forge connections with passionate winemakers. As Luna Wine Store continues its mission to promote the appreciation of natural wines and build a vibrant community, the Full Moon Wine Festival stands as a testament to the transformative power of wine, community, and celebration.
