Tasting Australia hosted by Eyrewoolf Abalone
Flinders Island and the Two Terroirs
Imagine embarking on a journey that takes you on a breathtaking aerial tour of South Australia’s wild coastline, before landing on a secluded private island for an unforgettable seafood luncheon. This dream became a reality on April 29th, 2023, during the much anticipated sold out Tasting Australia event, ‘Flinders Island and the Two Terroirs’. With three private aircraft transporting 18 fortunate guests, the event promised an exclusive experience that seamlessly combined nature’s beauty with gourmet delights.
As the aircraft soared through the skies for an hour, guests were treated to stunning views of the wild Eyre Peninsula coastline. The final destination: a private island, where Eyrewoolf Homestead welcomed visitors with open arms. Arriving just meters from the homestead’s back door, the guests were met by the Woolford family – three generations of proud island owners since 1978, sharing their love for this extraordinary place.
Jonas and Tobin Woolford, the hosts of the event, shared captivating tales of their childhood spent as the sole inhabitants of Flinders Island. They grew up surrounded by the island’s natural wonders before embarking on a 25-year career as wild harvest abalone divers in the adjacent waters. Their stories painted a vivid picture of the island’s history and the unique connection they hold with its land and sea.
After a warm welcome, the enchanting coastal views of Groper Bay and the iconic Bob’s Nose cliff line set the stage for the gastronomic journey. Chris Thomas, the head winemaker of Dowie Doole wines from McLaren Vale, awaited the guests with glasses of sparkling wine or cold Coopers beer.
Divided into two groups for the entrées, the guests experienced a symphony of flavors. Group one gathered by the outdoor fire area, indulging in sashimi of Eyrewoolf greenlip abalone, white soy, watermelon
rind and fresh wasabi. The delicate dish, served on stunning abalone shells, was complemented by Dowie vineyard chenin blanc, all while Jonas elaborated on the abalone harvesting process. Meanwhile, group two relished crudo of bight redfish, fried rice and edame on the deck, paired with Fume Blanc. This was followed by a dive into Eyrewoolf’s culinary journey and Dowie Doole’s unique winemaking prowess, explained by Tobin and Chris.
The main event took place in the homestead, where a golden cliffs backdrop served as the perfect setting for a seated long table lunch. A medallion of southern rock lobster, accompanied by charred greens and ginger lime beurre blanc, harmonized seamlessly with Dowie Doole’s buttery Chardonnay. The feast continued with a yellow curry of Spencer Gulf king prawns, pea eggplant, and basil, expertly crafted by Peter Clarke from Barossa’s Vintners Bar and Grill, paired with Doole vineyard rosé.
The second abalone dish, the Chinese-style braised Eyrewoolf abalone with ox tongue and pink peppercorn, was thoughtfully paired with Dowie Doole grenache. As the courses flowed, so did the conversations, with spontaneous moments like a guest’s piano performance adding to the unique atmosphere. The finale of the meal featured seared KIN southern blue fin tuna, Barossa bacon, potato, and peas, drizzled with Shiraz butter, all harmoniously paired with Dowie Doole’s Back vintage reserve Shiraz.
Between each course, the wine matching notes, winemaking secrets, and insights into the local Flinders Island connection to each seafood dish were generously shared by Chris, Jonas, and Tobin. Laughter and stories filled the air, creating a sense of camaraderie among the guests. To round off the day, the Barossa Cheese Company’s Aged La Dame made its appearance, satisfying the craving for a perfect ending.
As the day reached the golden hour it was time for the hosting team of Eyrewoolf Abalone, Dowie Doole, Flinders Island Eco Escape and Vintners Bar and Grill to farewell the guests. The event wasn’t just about exquisite cuisine and fine wines; it was about creating lasting memories and forging connections. A heartfelt thank you was extended to all the guests who contributed to making this day an indelible memory, etched forever in the hearts of those fortunate enough to experience ‘Flinders Island and the Two Terroirs’.
Testimonials
“Fabulous memorable day. 11 out of 10” M, Melbourne
“thank you for hosting such an amazing long lunch on Saturday, D*** and I were blown away with the work you and your families do. Abalone harvesting in your own island and sharing your place with us for the day. Thank you. Your abalones products are very good quality and unique in freshness.” P, Adelaide
“The food & wine was outstanding. Your hospitality was 10/10!” B, Port Lincoln
“They have all travelled widely over the years, but their enthusiasm and ecstatic delight when I welcomed the five of them home was almost too much.
They are still bouncing off the wall and I believe it will remain as one of the highlights of their lives forever.
For me, it’s just a case of a very big ‘THANK YOU’ to your family and all of your team for making my family’s day so memorable.” R, Adelaide who could not make it.
