Looking for a Father’s Day celebration that offers something a little bolder? Neat Sips—Australia’s only dedicated fortified wine festival—is back this 6–7 September 2025, promising a weekend of rich flavours, live fire cooking, and world-class wine in the heart of McLaren Vale.
Held at McLaren Vale Distillery, this immersive festival is all about celebrating the depth, complexity and charm of fortified and aromatised wines. Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or simply curious, Neat Sips offers a relaxed yet flavour-packed experience perfect for wine lovers looking to discover (or rediscover) the pleasures of this time-honoured style.
This year’s lineup includes standout producers from right across the country—from the Barossa, Riverina and Rutherglen to Langhorne Creek, Adelaide Hills, and the Vale itself. Among the fresh faces are Stanton & Killeen and Maidenii from Victoria, joining festival favourites in a weekend-long showcase of Australia’s best.
In an exciting new twist for 2025, Neat Sips has teamed up with the acclaimed arkhe restaurant crew to deliver a live fire food experience across the weekend—bringing flame-grilled fare to the fore and proving that fortified wines are just as at home with smoky meats and hearty dishes as they are with cheese boards and desserts.
Festival Patron James Godfrey, one of Australia’s most respected fortified winemakers and educators, returns with his signature storytelling and deep knowledge of the craft.
Building on a sold-out masterclass program in 2024, this year’s sessions promise even more depth and flavour, with tastings and talks exploring vermouth, rare vintages, cocktail culture and the evolving role of fortified wines on contemporary drinks lists. These intimate sessions will be led by some of the hospitality industry’s most respected voices, and are tipped to sell out fast.
To make the weekend even more appealing for families and groups, the McLaren Vale Motel is offering 15% off accommodation (until sold out) with the code NEATSIPS—perfect for a wine weekend getaway. And for those travelling from Adelaide, return buses will be running from 2KW (CBD), The Highway, and Warradale Hotel, ensuring a seamless and safe day out.
Neat Sips is at McLaren Vale Distillery on Saturday & Sunday, 6–7 September 2025, from 11am to 5pm. Tickets and info at neatsips.com.au
