Roam Central event manager Jo Brown said she was blown away by the feedback from people who attended the inaugural four-day celebration of the region’s wine and food industries - and confirmed the event would return in 2024.

Between January 26 and 29, a total of 19 events were held across the region, involving 38 wineries as well as dozens of chefs and food producers.

“Our vision for Roam Central was to create a summer celebration of what’s produced on our doorstep, for locals and visitors alike,” Jo said. 

“It’s about sharing our love of life in Central Otago and the Southern Lakes with others, and we are thrilled with the turnout of each event.”

Roam Central 2023 was the first time the wine producers and artisans of Central Otago have collaborated to organise a series of bespoke events that highlight some of the region’s top gastronomic and tasting experiences. 

Nineteen events celebrated the food and wine available in the region. PHOTO: The Central App

It is the creation of the Central Otago Winegrowers’ Association (COWA), an association of grape growers and winemakers from around the region.

Its flagship event, Roam the Valley Wine & Food Festival at Cargo Cellar Door in Gibbston, saw more than 1,500 people attend to enjoy a relaxed and fun atmosphere in the sun while sampling local wine and food. 

All other events - which ranged from cellar door tastings to cooking demonstrations as well as four-course wine and food matched dinners - were sold out or near-sell-out.

“We are truly grateful for the support of our fantastic winegrowers, wineries, chefs and restaurants – they are the heroes of this event,” Jo said.

“We’ll be back next year to celebrate and elevate this world-famous region, once again.”