Ep 5. The Shoalhaven

In Taste of Australia season 2 episode 5, viewers are taken on a culinary journey to The Shoalhaven, a stunning region located along the south coast of New South Wales. This picturesque area is home to a vibrant food and wine scene, and in this episode, viewers get to experience the best of it.

Hosts Geoff Jansz and Julie Ray venture into the heart of The Shoalhaven, starting their journey at the famous Berry Sourdough Cafe. Here, they meet up with famous pastry chef Michael Klausen who shares his baking tips and tricks with the audience. With his guidance, they prepare a delicious sourdough bread that is perfect for any meal.

Next, the hosts take a tour of the Greenwell Point Oyster Farm, where they learn about the oyster farming process. The Shoalhaven region is famous for its oysters, which are known for their unique taste and texture. Geoff and Julie get to taste some of the freshest oysters and learn how to shuck them like a pro.

Moving on, the hosts find themselves at one of the most scenic wineries in the region, Coolangatta Estate. Here, they meet up with winemaker Greg Bishop who shares his love and expertise of wine-making. Geoff and Julie are taken through the beautiful vineyard, where they learn about the different types of grapes that are grown in the region. They also get to taste the award-winning wines that have put Coolangatta Estate on the map.

Next up is a visit to the famous South Coast Providores, a local food store that specializes in gourmet products made from locally sourced ingredients. The store offers a variety of products such as jams, sauces, chutneys, and relishes. Geoff and Julie meet up with the owners and learn about the process of creating these homemade products. They also get to taste a variety of products and are blown away by the depth of flavors.

The episode ends with a visit to the charming Bangalay Luxury Villas, where the hosts meet up with Chef Brent Strong. He prepares a sumptuous meal for them using locally sourced ingredients, including some of the oysters and wines they had tasted earlier. The hosts are impressed by the level of creativity and expertise showcased in the meal. They also get to meet the owners of the villas, who share their philosophy of sustainability and living in harmony with nature.

In conclusion, episode 5 of Taste of Australia season 2 takes viewers on a memorable tour of The Shoalhaven region. From the famous sourdough bread to the oysters, wines, and gourmet products, the episode offers an insight into the rich culinary culture of the region. With stunning scenery and passionate locals, The Shoalhaven is a food lover's paradise, and this episode provides the perfect introduction to the region.