Winter Reds in the Adelaide Hills is your reason to schedule a long weekend pronto.

Winter is best celebrated with a glass of red and an open fire, and it’s something annual food and wine event Winter Reds has done with gusto since 2009.

Across three days and nights in the last weekend of July, 40 events will entice wine lovers and occasional drinkers into the Hills, whether for a leisurely lunch, masterclass, or something family friendly.

There will, of course, be plenty of delicious and interesting wines to explore, all of which spring forth from the microclimates and boutique wineries of the Adelaide Hills. Take your opportunity to fill your glass with Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Cabernet, and even relatively newer varieties for the region, such as Tempranillo, Nebbiolo and Gamay.

But as much as Winter Reds is about popping bottles, the event’s organisers also hope to create  memorable experiences through events as diverse as Connection to Country, Bully At The Block VIP at Barristers Block, and The Scents of Place – A Long Table Dinner, hosted by Jericho Wines and XO Wines and featuring food by chef Kane Pollard.

There are also more rambunctious events, for those who enjoy pairing pinot with a side of party. Head over to Maximilian’s for a Ski Lodge-themed happening, or, if you are of a slightly more ostentatious persuasion, head along to Gatsby at The Mill.

Or you could take it easy and join a winemaker for a guided tasting, chill out with a side of live music, or combine wine with a few holes of golf at the Fox Gordon Golf Day.

The Adelaide Hills are just up the freeway, so make a day trip of it, or treat yourself to a mini-holiday and stay close to the action.

But book soon, as ticketed events are selling out fast.

For more information, head to the Winter Reds website.