What’s Happening with Burning of the barrel in 2026?

The past few years have been a time of profound change globally, also touching our small pocket of the world. This has prompted us to take stock and reflect on what Burning of the Barrel was, where it came from, and why it’s been a signature event of the Hunter Valley for 14 years. Initially, Burning of the Barrel started with the winemakers, their families and some close friends getting together to celebrate the end of vintage and reset before the rigours of spring.

This simple concept grew into something with a life all of its own over the years and we have been proud to nurture its growth. The truth is though, every year presented new challenges for our small winery and 2026 has thrown the kitchen sink at us. Putting on the best night possible has always been paramount, and this year has proved to be a mountain too high to climb – so we’re flipping the script. It saddens us greatly but we have made the tough decision that the main event of the Glandore Burning of the Barrel will not go ahead as planned for 2026. All ticket holders have been contacted by Glandore Wines and offered an alternative or a refund.

We are changing the format for June 27. We are still offering ticket holders an opportunity to celebrate the end of harvest, but we will be dialling back the size and dialling up the gourmet experience. We recognise that current ticket holders may have plans for accommodation and transport; we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience and hope that you’ll enjoy our new format just as much, though is an 18+ event, so sorry, no kids or teenagers to this one. If you have tickets, please get in touch at tickets@glandorewines.com or call the Cellar Door on 4998 7140 to discuss your options. Complete refunds are available and so is attending our new alternative event, Firestarters Reignited.

What does the future hold for Burning of the barrel?

A decision will be reached early next year about what Burning of the Barrel, or what may rise from the ashes will look like. Fear not though, we’re still here making great wines and ready to welcome you to the Cellar Door 7 days a week.

VISITING THE HUNTER VALLEY JUST FOR BOB? WE CAN SWEETEN THE DEAL

Our accommodation partners, located just minutes away would love to welcome you to stay longer for Burning of the Barrel 2026. Make your trip a relaxed getaway with time to explore the area before or after Burning of the Barrel. With stay 3 pay 2, there’s just no excuse not to join us for Slowburn Breakfast Sunday morning.

Thistle Hill Guesthouse

Stay at Thistle Hill Guest House’s Lavender Cottage or 5 bedroom villa and save 10%, or enjoy great value with stay 3 pay 2!

www.thill.com.au

Book directly info@thill.com.au

Pokolbin Cottages

Stay 3 pay 2 for the Burning of the Barrel weekend!

Book directly on their website and leave a note saying which night you’d like free!

www.pokolbincottages.com.au

BUS TRANSFERS

The friendly team at Luckys will be running return bus transfers from the following loactions.

Pokolbin return – with the following pickup/drop off points:
accommodation venues throughout Pokolbin

Hunter Valley return – with the following pickup/drop off points:
accommodation venues throughout Cessnock Area, Broke Area and Singleton Area

Newcastle return – with the following pickup/drop off points:
Newcastle Interchange (bus stand C), McDonald Jones stadium and Wallsend McDonald’s

Bus transfers can booked via Lucky’s Hunter Valley Tours here