Horizontal Festival returns to Centennial Vineyards in Bowral this October Long Weekend with a food program shaped by fire, flavour and moments of connection.
From 2 to 4 October 2026, the vineyard estate will once again host a carefully curated gathering of food, wine, music and art, anchored this year by the arrival of Francis Mallmann. The Argentine chef, internationally recognised for his mastery of open flame cooking, will make his first visit to Australia’s east coast in 15 years as a guest of the festival.
Festival Creator and Director Amanda Fry said Mallmann’s presence signals a new level of ambition for the event. “Francis brings a depth of philosophy to cooking with fire. His work is grounded in nature and simplicity, yet the experience is profoundly polished and memorable. To host him in the Southern Highlands, after 15 years away from the east coast, brings an opportunity to shine an international spotlight of the produce of NSW.”
Mallmann’s approach is elemental and deliberate. Cooking over wood and embers, he draws flavour from smoke, time and restraint. At Horizontal, he will lead a series of intimate fire-led sessions within the Our Food Stories program, inviting guests to gather close as dishes are prepared slowly over flame. These experiences are structured as shared tables rather than staged demonstrations, with conversation unfolding alongside the cooking.
Mallmann said: “I would like to say thank you, for letting us come to the highlands, we shall share every fragment of our knowledge that is rooted in the climate and mountains of my Patagonia; wind, streams, forest, snow, stars, clouds and storms, hugs and silence, as the gestures of our ashes, coals and roaring flames. They all have the imprint of Patagonia.”
On Monday 5 October, Mallmann will host a six course lunch – Osborn House Fiesta del Fuego with Francis Mallmann in Bundanoon. Set within the grounds of the historic estate, the lunch will centre on live fire technique and seasonal produce. Fire Kitchen by Osborn House Executive Chef Axell Torres said, “The influence of Chef Francis Mallman’s art of fire cooking has been at the heart of the dining experience at Osborn House since its inception. We are honoured to cook alongside such an iconic Latin American food legend for an unforgettable open-fire feast journey celebrating the very best local produce.”
Across four sessions over three days, Horizontal Festival moves at a considered pace. The focus remains on quality and proximity. More than 80 NSW producers will present their work across the vineyard grounds, from cool climate wines and small-batch spirits to craft beers, ciders, artisan cheeses, charcuterie and estate-grown ingredients.
Beverage makers are presented with intent. Sparkling, white and red varietals are grouped thoughtfully, alongside small batch spirits, craft beers and ciders, allowing guests to taste across regions while preserving the palate. Winemakers and distillers pour their own releases, while informal conversation spaces host short discussions throughout each session.
Food extends beyond tasting plates. Pop up farm cafés and produce-driven kitchens will serve seasonal dishes designed to be enjoyed slowly, with time to sit, taste and return. Art and design installations are woven through the landscape, creating moments of pause and quiet theatre across the estate.
As afternoon moves into evening, live music shifts the mood from relaxed daytime sets to a headline performance on Saturday night, set against the vines. Sunday closes with a more open, family-friendly session, offering space for children to explore the grounds while adults continue to taste and gather.
In 2026, the Festival are also adding Satellite Festival Events held pre and post the Centennial Vineyards 3-day celebration at different locations around the Southern Highlands. The first one – Osborn House Fiesta del Fuego with Francis Mallmann – is on sale now with limited spaces available. Experience a 6 course Live Fire Lunch at Osborn House on Monday 5 March from 12 onward.
Early Bird ticket releases on sale Tuesday 7 April | 15% off listed prices below
• General Admission $59
• Platinum $149
General Admission includes wine tastings, distillery and cheese tastings, live music, art installations and a take home festival glass. Platinum guests receive priority entry, access to the Platinum Lounge, a welcome cocktail, exclusive tastings and return bus transfers from Bowral Railway Station.
