Proof that wine tourism is becoming increasingly profitable could be seen at the Australian Tourist Exchange last month.
New exhibitors included the Barossa Wine Train, a 1950s restored train which transports tourists from Adelaide into the centre of the Barossa Valley in around 90mins.
Launched last September, the 152-passenger train departs at 8.50am every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday and returns at 5.20pm the same day.
On arrival in the Barossa, passengers are offered a range of touring options. Package prices start from £35 per person for the Ultimate Tour by coach including transport, a two-course lunch and tour guide; or £65 for the Classic Limo Tour for up to six people including a gourmet lunch.
Barossa Wine Train sales manager Jenni Mitton said: “The tours offer the chance to meet local winemakers and learn about South Australia. Tourists want more of a one-to-one experience rather than sightseeing.”
Overnight packages are also available for tourists staying in bed and breakfasts, motels or the new four-star All Seasons Barossa Resort, another new exhibitor at ATE.
The 140-room property, located near Tanunda, is due to open on August 13 with prices from around £80 per night for a studio.
Facilities will include a swimming pool, restaurant, kids club, tennis courts, a health club and use of the 18-hole public golf course.
Regional director of sales Mark Wakefield said: “The Barossa Valley has a strong heritage of food and wine. It is famous for the oldest shiraz grapes and developed a huge reputation internationally. A resort has been long overdue.
“South Australia is very much a self-drive destination and, with over 50 wineries to visit, we expect people to stay two nights. It is 1hr north of Adelaide and the Clare Valley is also only a further hour north.”
South Australian Tourism Commission marketing co-ordinator Angelika Zoeller agreed. She said: “The opening of the resort in the region will boost tourism opportunities and have a major impact on wine tourism.”
Other new wine-related exhibitors at ATE included Food and Wine Tours. A company spokesman said: “We offer eight food and wine tours in Adelaide. One of the most popular is a Behind the Scenes tour of Adelaide’s market where people meet the traders and local characters. We do a lot of tasting and the whole focus is on the best of Australian produce.”
New tours include Prime Time, a tour of the market on a Saturday for £12, while the Dining Tour, taking in five different courses at five restaurants, is a best seller for £29 per person.
“UK wholesalers have told me food and wine is an emerging interest in the UK, with TV shows on the subject,” said the Food and Wine Tours spokesman.
Other exhibitors included Captain Cook Cruises which offers theme cruises on the Murray River with wine makers on-board alongside guest chefs. Prices start at £185 and include wine tastings and food.