THEIR smiling faces said it all.

With a glass of Sangiovese in hand, George and Penny Votzourakis from Melbourne were well and truly getting a taste of the King Valley.

“Could you think of anything better,” enthused George, settled at the tasting table at La Cantina King Valley, where another 100 visitors were savouring wines and homecooked Italian fare in the warm embrace of the Corsini family, basking in glorious sunshine on Saturday afternoon.

“This is our third festival in the valley, but it’s been a longtime between drinks...2021 was our last time here,” said Penny.

“George is consulting in Wangaratta at the moment so we decided to make a weekend of it, staying here in the valley.

“Our focus has been on the small producers who you can’t get at a Dan Murphys.

“The wineries’ wines, such as Rosato, Dolcetto and Sangiovese, together with their warm and friendly welcome has been fantastic.”

Similar sentiment was echoed throughout the valley, where visitors were enjoying the Weekend Fit for a King festival at six other participating wineries - Dal Zotto, Pizzini, Politini, John Gehrig Wines, Darling Estate nd Brown Brothers.

Shannon Pizinni at Dal Zotto Wines said while crowds on Saturday were a little quieter than last year, visitors were certainly enjoying the festival, revered for its relaxed, homely appeal where friends and family can enjoy each others company, with authentic Italian wines and food with its makers.

While four piece cover band The Friesians had some guests on the dance floor, others were enjoying a game of bocce, dining on wood fired pizzas and fresh pasta dipped in the tomato, chilli and garlic cheese wheel, or tasting the famous Prosecco, Sangiovese or Barbera.

At Pizzini Wines, 180 guests enjoying a three course long lunch were keeping things festive.

“It’s been a little quieter than last year, but that just enriches the experience for those here,” said Natalie Pizzini, noting events on in almost all wine regions across the state over the weekend.

“We’re slowly building back up after COVID.”

Sunday’s weather, while less inviting with its wintry chill, still saw a steady flow of traffic in the valley, drawn by the promise of a warm reception and quality fare at each winery.