28 Aug Orange Wine Festival 2026 | The Ultimate stay & celebrate guide at Ross Hill

Your Guide to Orange Wine Festival 2026: Stay, Sip and Celebrate at Ross Hill Wines

There’s something special about October in Orange.

The vines are bursting back to life, the days are getting longer and the entire region comes alive for one of Australia’s favourite wine celebrations, Orange Wine Festival 2026.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or making your annual pilgrimage to Orange Wine Country, there’s no better time to experience everything our region has to offer. Award-winning wineries, exceptional local food, vibrant events and genuine country hospitality combine to create a festival that’s worth travelling for.

At Ross Hill Wines, we’re excited to once again be part of the festival with two signature events, and if you’re looking to make a weekend of it, you can even stay amongst the vines at our boutique accommodation, Loco.

Why Visit Orange Wine Festival?

Orange Wine Festival is more than a celebration of wine. It’s a celebration of the people, producers and landscapes that make this cool climate region so unique.

Over ten days, visitors can enjoy exclusive winery experiences, long lunches, winemaker dinners, masterclasses, live music and behind-the-scenes tastings that aren’t available at any other time of year.

It’s also one of the best opportunities to meet the people behind the wines. From vineyard owners and winemakers to local chefs and producers, the festival offers authentic experiences that capture the spirit of Orange.

If you’re looking for a spring getaway, this is the perfect excuse.

Celebrate with Ross Hill Wines

This year we’re hosting two unforgettable experiences that showcase what we love most, great wine, great food and sharing both with good company.

Vintner’s Table

Friday 23 October 2026 | 6:00pm

One of the most intimate events of the festival.

Join owner James Robson and Chief Winemaker Chris Jessop for an exclusive evening beginning with a private tasting in our working winery before moving into the Pinnacle Room for a beautifully matched three-course dinner.

Along the way you’ll taste current and museum wines, hear the stories behind the vintages and enjoy a rare opportunity to experience Ross Hill after hours.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens behind the cellar door, this is your chance to find out.

Monty’s x Ross Hill Long Lunch

Saturday 24 October 2026 | 12:00pm

Good food. Great wine. Long conversations.

Our annual Long Lunch returns in partnership with the talented team from Monty’s, bringing together seasonal Orange produce with Ross Hill wines in one relaxed afternoon.

Hosted by James Robson, this is one of our favourite events on the calendar and a wonderful way to celebrate everything that makes Orange such a remarkable food and wine destination.

Expect beautifully matched wines, locally inspired dishes and plenty of stories shared around the table.

Stay at Loco and Make a Weekend of It

Why rush home when you can wake up surrounded by vineyards?

Located on our Griffin Road vineyard, Loco offers boutique accommodation designed for couples looking to slow down and experience the Orange wine region at their own pace.

Wake to mist drifting across the vines, enjoy your morning coffee overlooking the vineyard and spend your days exploring cellar doors before returning to your own peaceful retreat.

During Orange Wine Festival, accommodation across the region books quickly, making Loco the perfect base for your festival weekend.

After an evening of great food and wine, there’s nothing better than a short drive back to your accommodation amongst the vines.

Check availablity – Here

Visit Our Cellar Door

While you’re in Orange, make time to visit our Cellar Door.

Discover why Ross Hill has been recognised as one of Australia’s leading cool climate wineries, with a range of tasting experiences showcasing wines grown across our high-altitude vineyards.

Choose from a classic tasting, indulge in a food and wine pairing, or experience our premium Pinnacle range while learning about the unique climate and soils that shape every bottle.

As Australia’s first certified carbon neutral winery, sustainability is part of everything we do, from vineyard to glass.

Book your tasting today.

Explore More of Orange

No visit to Orange Wine Festival is complete without exploring the region beyond the wineries.

Take time to:

• Visit local providores and artisan food producers.
• Discover Orange’s boutique shopping and galleries.
• Enjoy breakfast in one of the city’s many cafés or overlooking the lake.
• Explore nearby villages and scenic lookouts.
• Sample some of New South Wales’ finest cool climate wines.

There’s a reason so many visitors return to Orange year after year.

Plan Ahead

Orange Wine Festival is one of the busiest weekends on the Orange events calendar.

Many events sell out well in advance, and accommodation is often fully booked weeks before the festival begins.

If you’re planning to visit, now is the time to secure your tickets and book your stay.

Whether you’re joining us for Vintner’s Table, settling in for the Long Lunch or spending a relaxing weekend at Loco, we’d love to welcome you to Ross Hill Wines this October.

We’ll have the wine ready.

For the full program of events please visit Orange 360.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Orange Wine Festival 2026?

Orange Wine Festival takes place across October and showcases the very best of the Orange wine region through winery events, tastings, dinners and food experiences.

Where should I stay during Orange Wine Festival?

Accommodation fills quickly during the festival. Staying at Loco on Ross Hill’s vineyard offers a peaceful base close to the region’s wineries while allowing you to enjoy the festival at a relaxed pace.

What events is Ross Hill Wines hosting?

Ross Hill Wines will host Vintner’s Table on Friday 23 October and the Monty’s x Ross Hill Long Lunch on Saturday 24 October 2026.

Can I visit Ross Hill Wines outside the festival?

Absolutely. Our Cellar Door is open daily, offering wine tastings, food pairings and premium tasting experiences throughout the year.

Why is Orange famous for wine?

Orange is Australia’s highest wine region, with vineyards ranging from around 600 to more than 1,000 metres above sea level. The cool climate produces elegant wines with vibrant acidity, freshness and exceptional ageing potential.