The state finalists in the 2008 Lexus Appetite for Excellence, young chef and waiter awards, spent Wednesday in the Barossa.

For the South Australian finalists Leanne Altmann - The Manse Restaurant waiter, and Rebecca Stubbs - Enoteca chef, a visit to the Barossa was something to cherish.

Leanne lived in Angaston for two years not too long ago and worked in the wine and restaurant industries while she was here.

“It is fantastic to be here again,” Leanne said.

While Rebecca’s partner is a winemaker and they are regular visitors to the Barossa.

“We are very fond of the Barossa and all its bakeries,” Rebecca said.

“As we are driving around on the bus I’ve just wanted to stop everywhere.”

On Wednesday the finalists met Maggie Beer, who spoke to the group about working with free range pork, and took part in a wine masterclass under the tuition of Stephen and Prue Henschke.

The gourmet tour began on Monday and included a day on the Limestone Coast, a trip to Port Lincoln and a tour across the Adelaide Plains and Riverland.

The organisers said it was a unique experience that would provide insight into some of Australia’s leading food and wine regions and the people behind them. At the end of the tour, the finalists were flown to Sydney to have their skills judged, the winners will be announced in August.