There's never been a better time to get acquainted with the top-notch wineries located right here in Melbourne's own backyard. And that's especially the case given that a slew of Macedon Ranges-based cellar doors are coming together to showcase their finest drops for the inaugural Summertime Fling Festival.

From Saturday, January 9–Sunday, January 31, wineries right across this cool climate wine-growing region will throw open their doors to deliver a jam-packed program of wine, food and music events for all palates. Escape the city for an afternoon of grazing platters, acoustic tunes and flowing prosecco at Mount Towrong Vineyard (January 9 and 10), or discover the region's up-and-coming pinot producers with a special tasting festival at Lyons Will Estate (January 16) — and the list of activities goes on.

Double Oaks Estate is hosting an American barbecue party featuring its hottest new-release wines (January 10), Gisborne Peak is serving up a long-table lunch among the vines (January 17), and Hanging Rock Winery invites you for a Sunday session of burgers, tunes and art (January 24).

And with stacks more live music, masterclasses, tours, feasts and tastings among this broad-ranging lineup, it seems the Macedon Ranges might be just the fling you're looking for this summer.

Hanging Rock Winery