King Valley "Weekend Fit for a King" June 9 & 10, Queen's Birthday Long Weekend

Escape to Chrismont's majestic Upper King Valley home for Festa Rustica, a heartwarming winter celebration combining classical and modern new release wines with rustic Italian fare and lively hospitality.

Held on June 9-10 of the Queen's Birthday long weekend, Festa Rustica joins the King Valley winemakers annual 'Weekend Fit for a King' - an immersion into the region's way of life and unique spirit that makes 'Australia's little Italy' a welcoming and intriguing place to be.

Take in Chrismont's spectacular mountainous views across the vines while tasting through one of the King Valley's most diverse range of Mediterranean wines poured by Chrismont husband and wife duo Arnie and Jo Pizzini, and winemaker Warren Proft.

The latest release winter reds will be featured, including new wave La Zona varietals of Barbera, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, and the delicate desert wine Fragolino. For the white wine enthusiast, Chrismont's much-loved Riesling and La Zona Prosecco will stand out, as will the cutting edge Arneis and Pinot Grigio, and a crisp, new release Chardonnay.

The variety of authentic Italian fare to complement the wines is impossible to pass on, prepared with much enthusiasm and love by Chrismont's extended family. Dare to miss out on dishes of tortellini in brodo, pasta Bolognese, pasta carbonara with pine forest mushrooms, spinach and ricotta stuffed conchiglioni, or choose from authentic Sicilian arancini, spezzatino with deep fried polenta or a pork salsiccie with peperonata, guaranteed to warm any appetite.

Sweeten your afternoon with irresistible desserts of Italian biscotti, a vanilla and chocolate custard cannoli, and a selection of mouth-watering cakes hard to ignore, as will the aroma of espresso coffee available all day. Dishes are served from 12noon and range between $12-$22, offering affordable options at this family friendly event.

With a fulfilled appetite and contented palate, pass away the afternoon enjoying the loveable and always engaging Paris & Co's impressive style of entertainment. Having worked the stage with Oprah Winfrey, and captivated audiences a t the Melbourne Cup and Formula One Grand Prix, Paris' golden voice is pure verve.

Great prizes will be awarded throughout the long weekend, including accommodation packages for the charming Chrismont Guest House, tickets to Chrismont's October 13 Long Lunch with chef Matt Wilkinson of Melbourne's Pope Joan, and a selection of wines.