Winter in Ballarat may be cold, and some say it lasts forever, but we say every season has its unique charms.

For winter that means warming up from the inside by indulging in the best comfort food and drinks the region has to offer, whatever the occasion. 

If you find yourself with a rainy Sunday afternoon, stir up a steaming mug of Grounded Pleasures hot chocolate and be sure to add in a couple of their velvety vanilla bean and raspberry marshmallows.

Now get cosy, pop on a movie, and enjoy your hot chocolate while snuggling under a Branberry blanket.  

Maybe you’re reading the latest hot pick from Collins Booksellers? Pair it with a warm cup of Blossoms Infusions herbal tea and a French pastry from Le Peche Gourmand. If coffee is more your thing, then pick up some locally roasted beans from Enga Coffee Roasters or Hellbilly Roasting. Add a freshly baked loaf or croissant from 1816 Bakehouse (pictured below) to get your day started right, and maybe keep some for later to enjoy with homemade pumpkin soup made with the freshest produce from Wilsons Fruit and Vegetables. 

If you’d rather someone else cook you breakfast, then you’re going to want to get in touch with Ballarat’s toastie guru, Tim Bone 

If you are looking for a glass of red to end the week then the wineries of the region have plenty to offer. Try a Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon from Blue Pyrenees or Mitchell Harris. If Pinot Noir is more your style, Captains Creek Organics or Eastern Peake wineries have you covered. If you’re feeling like something a little warmer, why not try your hand at making mulled wine. 
There are many wineries in the region to choose from; to find the winery that is right for you, check out this Visit Ballarat guide. 

Now for a delicious dinner to go with that red. If you fancy yourself in the kitchen, find inspiration from Ballarat culinary trainer @leroy_hand_offical or cook along with Chef Dona with this video as he makes ‘Polpette Di Carne Al Sugo’, otherwise known as braised meatballs. Not so confident? Have Chef Dona himself make it by dining at Carboni’s Italian Kitchen.   
 
Something else that pairs well with a fine wine is good cheese; pick up your catering box from The Turret Café and get creative making your own instagramable platter. 

If you need to warm up, dine out beside a fireplace at The Mallow Hotel, Craig’s Royal Hotel or the City Oval.  

The fun doesn’t have to stop there, why not get the taste of farm life and discover some of the region’s best paddock to plate experiences at Black Cat Truffles or Tuki Trout Farm.