The history of Lovedale dates back to the 1800s when local wheat,
dairy and general produce farmers turned their hand to grape growing.
The Lovedale Long Lunch was started in 1994 to market Lovedale as
a premium wine producing area and tourist attraction. Now in its 16th
year, it includes seven wineries and vineyards to visit over the Long
Lunch weekend.
The Lovedale Long Lunch has been the winner at the Hunter Region
Awards for Excellence in Tourism for the category Significant Regional
Festivals and Special Events in 1996, 1998, 2000 and 2007. In 2009
the Lovedale Long Lunch received a Distinction in the same awards.
In 2006 the
event was classified as a Regional Flagship Event by
Tourism NSW.
The Lovedale Long Lunch is an annual event, held on the third
weekend in May. It is a progressive-type lunch where visitors wine
and dine their way around the seven participating wineries over the
weekend enjoying a glass of wine, gourmet food, fabulous music and art.
This event is a must for all food and wine lovers. Come and see for
yourself! The 2010 event is over, but mark your diaries for next year so as
not to miss out.
Meanwhile, feel free to explore the links on this website relating to this
year's event. These pages will be updated in November with menus etc for 2011.
2011 Lovedale Long Lunch Event Guide due out November!
