There are many ways to mark the winter solstice — from swimming naked in Tasmania at Dark Mofo (which is back, by the way) to catching the legendary Belgrave Lantern Festival. But, if your favourite way to warm up on the shortest day of the year involves copious amounts of excellent wine and good food, then the Yarra Valley's Shortest Lunch might be the way to go. For two days, thirteen small, family-run wineries will join forces to bring you tastings, eats and live music. They range from winemakers like Boat O'Craigo, who've been looking after the same plot of land for generations, to young, dynamic creators like Fin Wines, who are experimenting with new ways of doing things. All in all, more than 100 wines will be available for tasting. Meanwhile, menus will range from slow-cooked ragu on parmesan polenta and baked gnocchi in vodka sauce to sticky date pudding and house-made chocolate Florentine. Three types of tickets are on offer. The entry ticket at $35 buys you free tastings at all 13 wineries, plus a glass to keep. Pay another $35 for the wine and dine ticket, and you'll also get a meal voucher and a glass of wine. Or, go all out on the VIP ticket for $100, which gives you all the above as well as a bottle of wine. Book before Sunday, June 1, to score a 10% discount.
