Wineries in Victoria

Whether you’re commemorating a big birthday, celebrating a milestone, or just looking to treat yourself and your friends to a memorable day, a winery tour is always a good idea. Open air, delicious fresh food, views of rolling hills and vineyards, good mates, and wine. What’s not to love? 

If you’re toying with the idea of a wine tour in Victoria, the Mornington Peninsula is the ultimate region to explore. Renowned for its stunning vineyards, incredible local produce, and world-class wines, the Mornington Peninsula is home to some of the best big-name and boutique wineries in the country. 

Not all winery tours are made equal, so we’ve collated a list of the best winery tours on the Mornington Peninsula. From private luxury experiences to cycling trips, this list has a tour for every palette. 

Winery and Lunch Tour with a Private Car

If you’re looking to go all out and splurge, the Winehop Winery and Lunch Tour with a Private Car is our top pick. 

Unlike other pre-arranged winery tours, with this tour you’ll get to choose the four wineries you visit. You’ll be chauffeured in your own private car too, which is why it’s a little pricier than the other options listed. The tour includes tastings at all four wineries, lunch, and a complimentary glass of wine. 

You’ll also be picked up and dropped off from your chosen location, so all you need to do is get dressed in your winery best! Pick up time is around 9:30am and drop off is around 5:00pm, meaning you’ll have plenty of time to leisurely roam around each of the venues. 

This tour requires a minimum of two people and a maximum of seven people, so it’s perfect for an anniversary surprise or a day out with friends. 

Cost: $285 per person ($220 deposit payable on booking) 

Website: Here

Phone: 1300 853 461

Reviews:

Trip Advisor — 4.5 stars from 15 reviews

Google Review — 4.8 stars from 73 reviews

Food and Wine Taste Trail 

If you’re not overly fussed about a private car, the Explore Australia Food and Wine Taste Trail offers a classic winery tour experience.

It’s slightly cheaper, at $189 per head, and you’ll be experiencing the best of the Peninsula. The day begins with a wine tasting at Point Leo Estate, straight into another tasting at the Rare Hare at Jackalope. 

Then, you’re off to Monalto for your third wine tasting and lunch, before making your way to St Andrews Beach Brewery for a taste paddle. 

The day concludes with stop offs at Murray’s Lookout and the Peninsula Bathing Boxes for some incredible views and insta-worthy pic opportunities. 

There are several pick-up and drop-off points, so head to the Mail Exchange Hotel, Her Majesty’s Theatre, the Regent Theatre, the Travelodge Hotel Southbank, or Geelong Fishermans Pier. 

In our humble opinion, this is the ideal wine tour experience for travellers and larger groups. 

Cost: $189 per person

Website: Here

Phone: 03 5257 4588

Reviews:

Trip Advisor — 5 stars from 2 reviews

Cool Climate Wine Region Self-Guided Cycle Tour

Fancy a cycle through the countryside? The Vine Tours group have just the thing for you. 

With this incredible tour, you’re invited to cycle your way through the Mornington Peninsula, enjoying the fresh air, stunning landscape, local food, and delicious wines along the way. 

You don’t have to be a Tour de France-level cyclist to get involved — you can take the day at your own pace and personalise your tour based on your ability and preferences. 

The journey begins at Arthurs Seat, where you can enjoy magnificent views from Port Phillip Bay to the Melbourne Cityline. 

Then, make your way past vineyards, berry farms, and breweries, and pick where you’d like to stop for lunch. The day concludes with a wine tasting at Stonier Estate, best known for its cool climate wines.

You’ll be decked out with a bike, helmet, water bottle, pack rack bag, maps and a guide, first aid kit, and phone assistance, should you need it. You can choose to drive yourself to Arthur’s seat, or opt for the complimentary transport to take you to and from your accommodation, or Frankston train station.

The tour is approximately six hours in total. It’s an unforgettable way to view the Mornington Peninsula from the ground, and you’re likely to stumble across all kinds of hidden gems!

Cost: $130 per person

Website: Here

Phone: +61 407 685 524

Reviews:

Trip Advisor — 5 stars from 10 reviews

Bottomless Brunch by the Bay

For Hen’s and Buck’s parties and birthday celebrations, the Tour Local Bottomless Brunch by the Bay is the perfect activity. 

Don’t be fooled by the name — it’s an all-day event, so you’ll have loads of time to soak up the Mornington Peninsula (and its wines). 

This is a private group tour, so you and your guests (minimum of 6, maximum 25) will have the luxury midi-bus all to yourselves. This means you can choose your pickup location too (bonus!) as long as its within 40km of the Melbourne CBD or South Eastern Suburbs. 

Your entertaining tour leader will take you on a journey through the Peninsula. You’ll begin by enjoying bottomless mimosas with brunch at The Cafe by the Bay, where you can wander the beautiful Mt Martha Foreshore. 

Then, you’ll enjoy a signature gin tasting and grazing platter at the Gin Distillery, before heading to The Red Hill Winery for a cellar door wine tasting.  

In the afternoon, you’ll travel through Red Hill and relax at the stunning Pt Leo Estate, before returning to your designated drop-off location. 

While this one is a little pricier, it’s definitely worth it if you’re after a luxurious experience. 

Cost: $210 per person ($200 deposit required to secure a private group booking)

Website: Here

Phone: (03) 5941 8800

Reviews:

Trip Advisor — 5 stars from 5 reviews

Peninsula Hidden Gems

While the big-time wineries are definitely must-sees, it’s the smaller, boutique wineries that deliver the most personal experience. 

The Grape Explorations ‘Peninsula Hidden Gems’ tour focuses on boutique, family-run wineries off the beaten track. 

On this tour, you’ll likely have the chance to meet the winemakers themselves and receive an in-depth behind-the-scenes look at all things wines and vines. 

This intimate, personal experience will allow you an insight into the stories behind the wineries, which you won’t get with larger scale venues. 

You’ll be treated to a two course lunch and wine tastings, as well as luxury private transport. 

This eight hour tour is available all seven days of the week, and includes pick up and drop off from the location of your choice. 

Cost: $175 per person 

Website: Here

Phone: + 0435050813

Reviews:

Google Review — 5 stars from 68 reviews

Vine and Brew Tour

If you’re a fan of wine, beer, and cider, the Vine and Brew Tour by Elevate Wine Tours was made for you. 

There’s no need to choose between the three beverages — on this trip, you’ll enjoy tastings at four cellar doors including a winery, brewery, and cidery. You get the best of all three worlds! At one of the venues, you’ll stop for lunch with a complimentary wine, beer, or soft drink. 

This tour is open to private groups of three to eleven people. You’ll be chauffeured in serious style — the vehicle features reclining seats and a spacious layout, and you’ll be offered refreshments on board. Those special additions really make all the difference.  

There’s no need to worry about a designated driver; you’ll be picked up and dropped off from your CBD accommodation or local address. 

All you need to do is kick back, relax, and sip away!

Cost: $175 per person

Website: Here

Phone: 0402 005 002

Reviews:

Google Review — 5 stars from 346 reviews

Meet the Mornington Peninsula the Right Way

There’s no better way to take in the gorgeous landscape of the Peninsula than with a winery tour. Settle back and enjoy the vines, wines, food, and views that the coast has to offer. 

Looking to make a weekend of it? These are our top recommendations for accommodation on the Mornington Peninsula. Go on, treat yourself. You deserve it. 

If you’re outside of Victoria, you can visit Wine Regions Australia to read about the best winery experiences across the country. 

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Wineries in Mornington Peninsula

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Lunches in Mornington Peninsula

We may be biassed — we do run a wine blog, after all — but we think there’s nothing quite like enjoying tapas and wine while taking in the lush views of rolling hills and vineyards all the while spending time with your doggo.

The Mornington Peninsula is of the best spots to do exactly that. It’s one of the most iconic winery regions in the world, best known for its cool-climate wines, particularly Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. What could make the whole experience even more perfect? Bringing your pooch along for the ride!

If you’ve ever had trouble parting from those puppy dog eyes on your way out, you’ll know what we mean. There are a number of incredible wineries on the Mornington Peninsula that are pet-friendly, so the whole family can enjoy a day out. Below, we share a list of dog-friendly wineries on the Mornington Peninsula. 

Green Olive at Red Hill

Just one hour from Melbourne, Green Olive at Red Hill Winery is a must-visit for you and your four-legged friend. The farm offers a dog and child-friendly experience, complete with an Olympic trampoline and children’s playground. 

The family-run operation is famous for its freshly-grown grapes, olives, herbs, and veggies. They’re big on combining their own produce with that of local farmers to create a delectable selection of tapas and wine. 

Green Olive also offer winery tours (yep, your pet is invited too) and an all-day food and wine menu. 

Settle in and enjoy the incredible views of the dam, produce garden, and vineyards. 

Opening Times: Disclaimer: Winery opening hours may be subject to change, please call ahead to confirm. 

Website: Here

Phone: (03) 5989 2992
Address: ​​1180 Mornington Flinders Road, Main Ridge, Victoria, 3928

Reviews:

Trip Advisor — 4 stars from 632 reviews

Google Review — 3.9 stars from 668 reviews

Moorooduc Estate

Looking for a relaxed cellar door experience? Moorooduc Estate is our top pick.

This award-winning vineyard offers an intimate wine tasting experience right at the cellar door. Groups of up to six are welcome to book in advance (which we recommend as spots fill up fast!). 

Pooches are welcome at this family-run estate, just make sure they’re kept on a leash — Reg the resident peacock isn’t a fan of being chased, but he does love to pose for a picture! 

Drop in for a friendly wine tasting experience. You may even want to pick up a few bottles to enjoy later.

Opening Times: Disclaimer: Winery opening hours may be subject to change, please call ahead to confirm. 

Website: Here

Phone: (03) 5971 8506
Address: 501 Derril Road, Moorooduc

Reviews:

Trip Advisor — 4.5 stars from 5 reviews

Google Review — 4.7 stars from 43 reviews

Rahona Valley

When it comes to creating a personal, friendly wine tasting atmosphere, Rahona Valley does it best. 

Owners Tony and Dianne love chatting to visitors about all things wine from their boutique pop-up tasting door. Enjoy a wine flight matched with cheese or chocolate, or pop in to the cellar door for a tasting experience.

Tony and Dianne are passionate about implementing sustainable farming practices, including water harvesting and retention, composting of green waste, and pesticide-free vineyards. 

All visitors (and their furry friends) are welcome!

Opening Times: Disclaimer: Winery opening hours may be subject to change, please call ahead to confirm. 

Website: Here

Phone: (03) 5989 2254
Address: Unit 3, 48 Collins Road Dromana

Reviews:

Trip Advisor – 5 stars from 37 reviews

Google Review – 4.6 stars  from 12 reviews

Paradigm Hill

Located on the stunning Mornington Peninsula, Paradigm Hill is a family-run vineyard and winery offering estate-grown wines, including Riesling, Pinot Gris, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir. 

They are true leaders in the field of sustainable wineries. The team at Paradigm Hill are committed to achieving a zero-carbon footprint, and have been used as a case study by Sustainability Victoria and the Green Business Network. We love to see it!

Kick back and enjoy the view of the north-facing sloped vineyards. You can drop in at the cellar door with your pup, book a wine tasting, or settle in for an afternoon among the vines with ‘Picnic at Paradigm Hill’ in the summer. 

Opening Times: Disclaimer: Winery opening hours may be subject to change, please call ahead to confirm. 

Website: Here

Phone: (0) 408 039 050
Address: 26 Merricks Rd, Merricks VIC 3916

Reviews:

Trip Advisor – 4 stars from 8 reviews

Google Review – 4.4 stars from 14 reviews

Tucks Wine

What better way to spend a sunny afternoon than to settle back into a tree swing or lawn chair at Tucks Wine? 

Tuck into (see what we did there?) the incredible Indian BBQ dishes on offer, including Dehli-style tandoori chicken, South Indian masala dosa, and Chips and Curry. 

The winery is renowned for its pinot noir and chardonnay, but their pinot gris, savagnin and shiraz varieties are just as delicious!

The team love pups almost as much as they love wine, so feel free to bring your dog along for the ride. It’s a walk-in only venue, so it’s perfect for a casual weekend drop-in. 

Opening Times: Disclaimer: Winery opening hours may be subject to change, please call ahead to confirm. 

Website: Here

Phone: (03) 5989 8660

Address: 37 Shoreham Road, Red Hill South, VIC 3937

Reviews:

Trip Advisor – 3.5 stars from 148 reviews

Google Review – 3.9 stars from 72 reviews

Mock Red Hill

The incredible orchard at Mock Red Hill was first planted in 1895. Today, there are four generations of Mock’s living on the farm and tending to the magnificent apple orchard. 

You can visit the Mock Red Hill Farm-gate and Cider Lounge to enjoy the range of craft apple ciders, sparkling and cloudy juices. While you’re there, make the most of the delicious share-plate lunches on offer, or head out for a picnic in the orchard under the 50+ year old apple trees. 

When the weather is cool, you’re invited to enjoy a hot mulled cider by the fire in the dining area. In warmer months, take a seat in the vine-covered courtyard and sip on a apple-themed cocktail! 

You can also purchase freshly-made apple products from the Farm-gate store. 

If you’re bringing your pup along, remember a leash and water bowl. 

Opening Times: Disclaimer: Winery opening hours may be subject to change, please call ahead to confirm. 

Website: Here

Phone: (03) 5989 2242
Address: 1103 Mornington Flinders Rd, RED HILL VIC 3937

Reviews:

Trip Advisor – 4 stars from 41 reviews

Google Review – 4.5 stars from 217 reviews

Kerri Greens

Tom McCarthy (winemaker) and Lucas Blanck (viticulturalist) manage their vineyard at Kerri Greens with a focus on sustainability. Their techniques include mowing undervine to avoid herbicide, spray regimes, pruning to promote longevity, and no irrigation. 

On sunny afternoons, visitors are encouraged to reserve a picnic table or bring their own picnic to enjoy. Wine tastings are also available at the cellar door, and furry friends are more than welcome. 

If you need further proof that Kerri Greens is worth visiting, they were shortlisted for the Best New Winery of the Year 2022 in the Halliday Wine Companion Awards. Sold? We thought so. 

Opening Times: Disclaimer: Winery opening hours may be subject to change, please call ahead to confirm. 

Website: Here

Phone: (03) 5989 2572  

Address: 38 Paringa Road, Red Hill South, Victoria 3937

Reviews:

Trip Advisor – 5 stars from 4 reviews

Google Review – 5 stars from 23 reviews

The Epicurean Red Hill

Indulge your taste buds at The Shed Restaurant at The Epicurean Red Hill. The menu boasts an extensive wine list and Italian-inspired dishes made from local produce. 

Groups up to 6 people are invited to enjoy the a la carte menu, while groups of 7 to 20 people can make the most of the share-plate menu. Be sure to book online to secure your alfresco dining experience. 

Bringing your pooch along? The cafe at the Epicurean is dog-friendly and offers a range of savoury treats and delicious beverages. 

Opening Times: Disclaimer: Winery opening hours may be subject to change, please call ahead to confirm. 

Website: Here

Phone: (03) 5989 4000
Address: 165 Shoreham Road, Red Hill South, VIC, AU

Reviews:

Trip Advisor – 3.5 stars from 601 reviews

Google Review – 4.2 stars from 906 reviews

Taste-Away 

The Mornington Peninsula is home to a range of pet-friendly wineries that you and your pup can enjoy together. 

In fact, why not make a weekend of it and secure some accommodation while you’re at it? For some inspiration head to our blog on Mornington Peninsula accommodation. 
If you’ve got little ones with you, we have you covered on that front too. These are our top recommendations for kid-friendly wineries on the Mornington Peninsula.

Other Popular Articles

Top Wineries

Wineries for Lunch

Wine Tours

With over 200 vineyards dispersed along the Mornington Peninsula, 6 of those are the pillars that title Ten Minutes by Tractor. As the name suggests, each vineyard is said to be ten minutes away from each other… by tractor, which we thought was a clever idea for a unique spin on wine tour transport – it’ll catch on. 

The wine tastings are in-depth giving you this ornate feeling that the wine experts, makers, vineyard hands, to the kitchen team all live and breathe the naughty grape. And to be honest, if your commute to work navigated the most scenic drive through tens of Mornington Peninsula wineries, then you’d be a junky for the industry too. 

Opening Hours and Reviews

Due to the unpredictable nature of Covid-19, we’ve found that certain wineries are struggling to staff-up on any given day. We’d feel terrible if you turned up to Ten Minutes by Tractor upon recommendation, and they were closed. Please call in advance to avoid any wasted efforts and double-check they’re up and running. 

Visit Ten Minutes by Tractor

Reviews

4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor from 690 reviews

4.4 ⭐️ Google Review from 190 reviews

Restaurant

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The kitchen at Ten Minutes by Tractor is a game-winner in the fresh, locally sourced ingredients game, but they have a competitive edge. Head chef Hayden Ellis has worked at some of the finest high-end restaurants worldwide, including Heston’s The Fat Duck, Vue De Monde, and Bistro Guillaume in Melbourne.

Ellis’s prestigious inventory of skills and mastered cuisines has given him the power to create something beautiful. The Team has nailed the holy grail of pairing the connection between food, wine and nature and funnelling it into a collection of flavours and philosophies that encapsulate a stellar menu. WARNING – laptop damage due to keyboard drool.

See menu examples below;

Abrolhos scallop and truffle tartare, with Madeira glazed shiitake, cauliflower gel and caviar⁠

Pan-roasted Hazeldene chicken, wild onion gel, turnip fondant, 10 x pinot sauce

Bundara Pork, foie gras, black pudding, smoked eel, and white chocolate

Vines and Wines

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Six vineyards construct the foundation of this viticultural institute.

• McCutcheon Vineyard
• Judd Vineyard
• Coolart Road Vineyard
• Wallis Vineyard
• Spedding Vineyard 
• Gabrielle Vineyard

Most of the above were family-owned vineyards that were recently consolidated and housed under the new name of Ten Minutes by Tractor, but the history and knowledge of how to generate the best harvest were passed on and preserved. 

Each vineyard showcases a different element of quality that encompasses the personality of the Peninsula. While the region isn’t the highest in altitude (306 metres above sea level at Arthur’s Seat), some of the Ten Minute vineyards climb above 200 metres giving you the closest thing to a high altitude wine in Mornington Peninsula.

An apparent maritime climate impacts the vineyard as the salty southern ocean breeze greets the land, and it’s just enough to keep things cool during the drier months of the year. If you’re a Melbournite, you can attest that it’s always about 5 degrees cooler in the coastal region once that sea breeze kicks in. 

But all in all, it’s incredible that one wine label can have such an eclectic portfolio of flavours. 

These vineyards have been through it all, from fire to Covid to a staff shortage that has forced closure for many surrounding wineries. And somehow, they have pushed through all the while building a new side to the business – the interactive and oh so immersive tasting experience which you’re going to read about in the below paragraph. 

Wine Tastings at Ten Minutes by Tractor

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5-meter high wooden slat ceilings – a futuristic-looking barn if you will. The cellar door tasting bar was built from many bricks that, at first glance, looks like the warm pallette of a western setting sun, but as the tasting proceeds, you learn that the colours represent the formations of soil that lay beneath the country dwellers of Mornington Peninsula. 

We tried the red tasting and the white, and no we didn’t use the spatoon, so the summery day haze was well and truly upon us as we walked out the doors and on to the next establishment. 

There were some standout wines like ‘up the hill’ and ‘down the hill’. Two separate wines that showcase the impact of altitude. The ‘Down’ Pinot noir was made with the lowest altitude grapes and ‘Up’ with the highest. As we sipped on the two, our tasting sensei showed us the vineyard positions on the map and later again on the 3D map of the region carved out of wood and encased in glass in the private wine tasting room. 

Another crowd favourite was the 2019 Estate Chardonnay, with hints of curry leaf, citrus peel, and capsicum. It was a flavour profile new to our palettes, and the excitement of new experiences made it memorable. 

Altogether, the tasting was probably the most decadent tasting we’ve had the pleasure of experiencing, and that’s saying something considering that we’re wine writers. 

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Top Wineries

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Kid-Friendly Wineries

Wineries for Lunch

Wine Tours

You find the best kid friendly wineries in Mornington Peninsula and you’ve found the key to a relaxing holiday. You go do a wine tasting, they’re occupied, which means no screaming children while you’re enjoying the fruits of an abundant region; it’s a win-win situation. We’ve handpicked a quiver of wineries in Mornington Peninsula so you can switch off, kick back and enjoy a day without stress.

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Read on for our list of wineries in Mornington Peninsula that are kid friendly.

Rahona Valley

When you’re looking for kid friendly Mornington Peninsula wineries, you need a great outdoor area that’s not constricted by mass groups or unspacious seating. Half the stress of taking children ‘out in public’ is the concern they may be upsetting other patrons. Your kids are running amuck, you start to get ‘the look’ whether it’s from a Karen or not, it does affect your mood.

Rahona Valley has the perfect outdoor area and the tables don’t encroach on personal space, so you can stretch out a little without upsetting ole mate on the table next to you.

You’ve got about a half an hour window of sitting down before the kids get restless and want to run around; you can’t blame them when there are fields of vines to explore. Trees completely enclose Rahona Valley, no busy highways or drop-offs, just a neat nook in a peaceful valley. 

One word of warning before you head off for a wine tasting, just tell the kiddies not to go past the trees, there’s no local curse or anything, they are just dense, and it makes it a little hard to peer out of the tasting room to see how they are going. 

Pt. Leo Estate

This stunning winery is a winner. It’s a little classier than your average kid friendly winery in Mornington Peninsula and probably more suited if your kids are above 5 years. 

Firstly, the restaurant is impeccable, serving an extensive menu of innovative dishes incorporating locally sourced ingredients served in an Australian fusion fashion that delights the senses to say the least. Your best bet is to feed the kids beforehand with a homemade toasty and send them out to play while you enjoy the indulging experience that is Pt. Leo.

The best part? From the restaurant, you have a panoramic view of the surrounding vineyard. There are some incredible sculptures that the kids can explore as well as an open outside dining area where they can retire with a lemonade while they wait for you to finish up with your meal or tasting experience. 

Panton Mornington Peninsula

Panton is humble. That’s the best way to describe it; a sleek modern yet cottage-esk layout with beautiful bedded gardens and a scenic lookout that falls onto a nest of luscious vines. It’s the type of paradise that makes you want to retire at 30… 

For the kids, it’s heaven. Wide-open spaces where they can frolic, kick a ball, play tag, hide and seek and when they’ve exhausted all that extra energy, the massive cheese and charcuterie platters on offer are sure to make them snoozy for the ride home so you can enjoy a little more peace and quiet.

For the parents, a wine tasting perhaps? Get on the Panton 2019 Sparkling

‘Seductive with lifted citrus and ginger aromatics. An abundance of citrus fruits and spice, with grapefruit and lemon, finely honed. Generous and energetic with an explosion of complexity which should continue to develop beautifully’.

Or the 2019 Pinot Noir

‘An aroma of dark cherries and spicy plum with hints of aromatic dried herbs.

A generous palate of brooding dark fruits with spice and lift. Plenty of fruit still locked away that will reveal itself over time creating a palate that is more expansive and complex’.

It’s undoubtedly the perfect way to watch a sunset and enjoy a moment of complete serenity before jumping back into a busy week. 

T’Gallant Cellar Door

A little trip to T’Gallant Cellar Door is almost like checking out of Aus for a while and sampling the prosperous lands of Tuscany, well, minus the sandstone castles and old grumpy Italian ladies.

With a Roman influenced menu, sling back some wood-fired pizza, and you guessed it, a whole lot of platters crammed with a whole lot of goodness. Hold up; there’s also a kids menu. This is a detail we think goes unseen far too often. Give the kids what they want!! Check here for the kid’s selection.

The estate used to be an apple orchid, and it is clearly and deliciously displayed in the integrity of the wine with crisp components and fresh fruit-driven notes popping up through their selection. 

Wine Regions’ List of Kid Friendly Wineries in Mornington Peninsula

We hope you have enjoyed our selection of kid friendly wineries in Mornington Peninsula. It’s time to get on the road and make for the coast – don’t forget to strap the kids in.

There are a few boxes that you need to tick when you’re thinking about going on a wine holiday. The Grampians Wine Region constructs the idealistic package deal of what to expect when you’re on the perfect getaway. First and foremost, there are the wineries, Grampians wineries hold a high level of regard in the Victorian wine game, offering incredible and personal cellar door experiences.  The informative yet exciting Grampians wine tours are in abundance. Throw in a few wine tastings, world-class dining experiences, breathtaking views and if you time it right a possible venture to the Grampians Grape Escape Food and Wine Festival you’ve got yourself a time. 

So which Grampians wineries are you going to check out? Wine Regions Australia has compiled a list of the 6 best wineries in the Grampians alongside the inside goss on what their cellar door experiences entail. But first a bit of knowledge on the region.

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The Top 6 Wineries & Cellar Door Experiences in the Grampians

Providing you with the best possible experience is at the top of Wine Regions Australia’s priority list. Out of the 23 wineries we have culled a list of the 6 best wineries in the Grampians for your reading pleasure.

Best’s Great Western

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The Best’s Great Western Vineyard is a firm of historical notches on the old victorian belt. They started as a cattle farm and butchery in the 1860s, feeding the hard-working miners that flooded in from the gold rush. The property slowly developed into the winemaking veteran that it is today. Though its roots are deep in the soils of time, it’s not to say they are irrelevant, rather masters of their craft. The Thomson family, who purchased the business from the Best family in 1920, believe in bringing forth the complexities of the fruit in a minimalistic approach. They believe that “great wines are made in great vineyards.”

Best’s offers some fantastic wine tastings including the ‘cheese and wine experience’ where you can taste three different wines matched with three different kinds of cheese and sliced meats put together on a Smörgåsbord of pickles and condiments. Maybe you’re feeling a little fancy, and you want to try the top shelf, jump onto the ‘premium wine tasting’ which includes wines from both the Growers Collection and premium Concongella Collection.

If you hadn’t quite reached the wine enthusiasts’ ideal version of a climax, then check out the self-guided tour through the underground cellars of the Best’s Great Western. The cellar tunnels were dug out by hand and date back to the 1800s!

Reviews:

4.8 ⭐️ Google Review from 79 reviews

4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor from 140 reviews

Visit Best’s Great Western

Seppelt

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Seppelt has one common goal, to produce wine that is “balanced, complex and most importantly, delicious.”  Drawing inspiration from the founding fathers of wine in the Grampians Wine Region; Joseph Best, Hans Irvine and the Seppelt family, the winemakers at Seppelt strive to maintain the quality of wine produced. There’s also a fascinating historical correlation to the Best’s story, Joseph Best once owned the Seppelt estate until his death in 1888 upon where Hans Irvine purchased the Winery. By 1900 Seppelt wines was the largest winery in Australia dealing in mass production to England. 

Today, Seppelt is a gorgeous estate with beautifully laid gardens, and a friendly cellar door to have a drink and a nibble. Seppelt offers the Drives wine tour where you can check out their historical underground cellar door experience, finished off with a gourmet bbq banquet put on by the chefs of the estate. 

Reviews:

4.7 ⭐️ Google review from 99 reviews

4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor from 172 reviews

Visit Seppelt

Pomonal Estate

Grampians wineries are at an elite level, and Pomonal Estate is no exception. Pomonal Estate is on the opposite end of the spectrum when it comes to historical influence. Founded recently in 2014 by Adam and Pep, this small family-owned business is making waves in the region. 

There’s nothing they can’t do at Pomonal Estate; they are, on top of being one of the best wineries in the Grampians they also brew craft cider and beer, talk about over-achievers! We recommend trying their Lost Emu Pilsner or the Blue Beetle Pomonal Stout all of which you can find at the cellar door alongside a fantastic selection of Riesling, Shiraz and Sparkling!

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Reviews:

4.8 ⭐️ Google Review from 139 reviews

4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor from 63 reviews

Visit Pomonal Estate

Montara wines

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A tight-knitted community of wine-lovers ties the Grampians Wine Region together and the Stapleton family are a vital link to the chain. The Stapleton family consist of 6 siblings that run the vineyard giving in a fresh exuberance that doesn’t always exist in a wine region burdened with tradition and historical preference. 

You can’t go past the stunning views of the Grampians Wine Region sitting on the Montara Wines veranda sipping on excellent vino and tasting the quality produce sourced from local farmers. There is almost too much to choose from when it comes to the wine list. Anything from Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinot Noir to a mature musky nip of Tawney. 

Montara Wines has teamed up with Grampians Helicopter Tours to forge the most incredible wine tour in wine tour history. The Grampians Package includes;

• Three nights at the Down Under log Cabins in either the Luxury Tree House or Mountain View Cabin
• Breakfast hamper and a local bottle of wine
• A half-day local tour of the Grampians National Park (catered to your fitness level)
• A half-day wine tour and Lunch included at Montara Wines. 

Reviews

4.7 ⭐️ Google Review from 18 reviews

5.0 ⭐️ Trip Advisor from 19 reviews

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Summerfield Wines

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For 40 years the Summerfield family has been toiling away at building a quality wine-producing legacy. Ian Summerfield has spent a lifetime perfecting his craft through meticulous care and consideration for his plantings and land. People associate viticulture with elegance and beauty, but when it comes down to it, hard work is the key ingredient to making wine.

The grapes are checked almost hourly and sampled (willingly) every day; they are then hand-picked and produced in small batches to maintain the quality. The Summerfield’s attention to detail has awarded them mainly accolades for their excellent wines. 

There’s no better way to enjoy Grampians wine than sitting in the Summerfield Wines restaurant looking over the vineyards and gardens enjoying a gourmet wood-fired pizza. Treat yourself to a quality vino that you know has been hand-picked, crushed and brewed for your enjoyment. 

Reviews

4.7 ⭐️ Google Review from 33 reviews

4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor from 44 reviews

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Grampians Estate

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Tom and Sarah Gutherie are to blame for the empire that is Grampians Estate. Though it’s one of the youngest kids on the block, they racked up a number of awards including ‘Best Shiraz’ at the 2002 Victorian Wine show, ‘Best Shiraz’ at the 2005 National Wine Show, Winestate Magazine’s ‘Best Sparkling’ for 2010 and so many more. All of these award-winning wines are available to buy from the cellar door.

You’d be silly not to try the ‘2010 Kelly’s Welcome Blanc de Blanc’ it’s 100 % chardonnay grapes, it has an ideal length and balanced acidity and summery peach and apple flavours bursting through with every sip. 

Wine Regions Australia is a massive fan of the gold medal 2017 Streeton Reserve Shiraz. It has deep peppery notes with the integration of fresh raspberries and oak on the pallet. 

There certainly is a plethora of quality Grampians wine to try here at Grampians Estate.

Reviews

4.4 ⭐️ Google Reviews from 67 reviews

4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor from 81 Reviews

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Things To Do in the Grampians Wine Region

The real question is what isn’t there to do in the Grampians Wine Region. Well firstly and obviously there is the surplus of Grampians wines to sample and wineries to visit, and once you’ve ticked that off your list, you can move on to the secondary activities. Here is Wine Regions Australia’s top pick of things to do in the Grampians Wine Region. 

The Grampians National Park

Well, it would be a crying shame if you were in the Grampians Wine Region but didn’t visit the national park itself. There are some great day walks if you want something casual or you are with the kids. Check out the Venus Baths, Mackenzie Falls or the Silver Band Falls along the way; you could even cool off and have a dip!  If you’re feeling adventurous, prepare yourself for three days of stunning views and mountainous trails as you trek to the summit of the Grampians Peak Trail. 

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Halls Gap Zoo

Halls Gap Zoo is a perfect opportunity to get your cute animal addiction satisfied for a year. They hold over 160 species of native & exotic mammals, reptiles and birds including their “inquisitive meerkats, gigantic giraffe, colossal rhinoceros, swift cheetah, regal red panda, playful lemurs and colourful macaws”. Halls Gap Zoo is the largest regional zoo in Victoria and honestly replicates what it might be like on safari on the plains of Africa!

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Bunjil Shelter

The Grampians holds 80 % of South-East Australia’s Aboriginal rock art. Located in the Black Range Scenic Reserve near Stawell lies the Bunjil Shelter. The Bunjil Shelter is considered one of the most critical and influential cultural pieces of art in Australia. It’s said that he was an indigenous man who looked after communities and brought peace through laws and beliefs.

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“Bunjil created our land, our people, the plants and animals, our religion and the laws by which we live. He is the leading figure in our spiritual life, essential in teaching our young people the importance of our laws and beliefs” –  Levi Lovett, local custodian, Parks Victoria.

Looking for more regions and wineries near you?

There are many wine regions in Victoria – more to bite off than you could chew! You’ll give yourself a headache before you’ve even managed to have three glasses of wine and a panadol. The best way to pick your destination is to know all about it. So let’s go through the different wine regions, the grape varietals, a little bit of history, a couple of great wine tours, and some other cool stuff to do along the way. 

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Wine Regions in Victoria

Central Victoria

The Central Victorian wine zone is split up into 4 sub-regions; Bendigo, Goulburn Valley, Heathcote and Strathbogie Ranges. The zone is known for its moderate climate and its small amount of rainfall. In general, Central Victoria has Cambrian soils dating back 500 million years. The soil is primarily made of Green Stone which is highly absorbent, allowing the earth to stay damp and fertile almost year-round. 

The Strathbogie Ranges Region

The Strathbogie Ranges Region is an exception to the warm climate and has one of the cooler-climates out of the wine regions in Victoria. Having a cooler climate allows them to produce grape varietals like Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris and Viognier. 

Heathcote

Heathcote was the predominant wine region in the zone but it was subdivided, giving Bendigo wine region its own title. The wine produced in Heathcote is 71 % shiraz and the other 29 % is made up of Sangiovese, Cab Sav and many others.  There are 33 wineries that offer a cellar door experience; if you’re longing for more than a singular experience try Wine Compass, they provide informative, relaxed wine tours that weave their way through the stunning region.

Bendigo

Bendigo wine region mainly focuses on Shiraz, Cab Sav, Syrah as well as Chardonnay recently making its way to a successful grape varietal in the region.

Goulburn Valley

Goulburn Valley is the oldest continuously producing Wine region in Victoria with some Shiraz vines dating back to 1860. This status would have been matched if it wasn’t for Phylloxera which seemed to jump over Goulburn Valley.

North-West Victoria 

The North-West wine zone is made of only two regions; The Murray Darling and Swan hill. Though the list of regions is small the zone is responsible for producing a quarter of the wine in Australia and a third of the chardonnay. The area is hot, dry and has minimal rainfall. The area is known to the locals as ‘Sunraysia’. 

The Murray Darling

The Murray Darling wine region is mainly bulk produced wines and it doesn’t really focus on the individual boutique vineyards. It is the largest wine region in Victoria and second in Australia, starting at the border of South Australia, through Victoria and running into New South Wales.  

Swan Hill

Swan Hill wine region is a great little spot with lots of cellar doors to visit and plenty of water sports, outdoor activities and local produce to try.

North-East Victoria

The North East wine zone is sectioned into six beautiful regions; Alpine Valleys, Beechworth, Glenrowan, King Valley, Rutherglen and Upper Goulburn. The zone sits on the western foothills of The Great Dividing Range. Alpine Valleys and King Valley climb different altitudes providing diverse climates all throughout the region. The cooler climate gives the grapes unique aromas and maturity as they spend more time on the vine.

King Valley

King Valley wine has an incredible Mediterranean influence on the varietals, coming from Italian migrant families that have been perfecting the craft in the area for many years. There are lots of cellar doors with great food and excellent tasting tours.

Alpine Valleys

Alpine Valleys has beautiful panoramic views of surrounding rocky mountains as you dine at any number of stellar estates.

Rutherglen

Rutherglen is a small gold mining town turned wine country. Scattered with beautiful wine estates and historical accommodation on the banks of the Murray River. The region is internationally famous for its fortified wines; Tokays and Muscats.

Glenrowan

Glenrowan is quite famous for holding the history of Ned Kelly. It is said that he was at hand in helping to plant some of the first vines in the region as a fence contractor. The region is known for its full-bodied Shiraz and quite similar to its Neighbouring region (Rutherglen), its fortified wines.

Beechworth

Beechworth is made up of two dozen wineries most of which are family-owned and operated. It’s situated between Rutherglen and the Alpine Valleys, giving it a hybrid mix of high and low altitude with rolling hills and healthy fertile soils from the waters running from the highlands.

Upper Goulburn

Upper Goulburn is known for its sparkling wine and complex reds. It has quite an even distribution of Pinot Noir (quite uncommon for the zone), Pinot Grigio, Gewürztraminer, Marsanne and Roussanne. The snowy tops of Mt. Buller can be seen through the region, and it makes a perfect sightsee while sipping on some thoughtfully crafted wine.

West Victoria

The West wine zone is subdivided by three wine regions; Henty, Pyrenees and The Grampians. The zone lies victim to what is called katabatic winds. When the temperature rises in the morning, the dense, cold air from the mountains drops into the gully giving the region a cooler-climate. The cool-climate allows an excellent habitat for growing crisp Chardonnays and suckling fruity Rieslings.

The Henty

The Henty wine region is known for its aromatic white wines, luscious sweet dessert wines and intense, finely structured reds. Its main grape varieties are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. 

The region constructs a perfect concoction of Australian outback meets Italian farm country. There are 15 wineries to choose from in the area. Though the region is relatively new to the game with the first vineyard established in 1964, they are pioneering new and improved winemaking methods.

The Pyrenees

The Pyrenees wine region received its name by French settler Rémy Martin. He wasn’t a very creative lad but he had an eye for beauty and named  the area after the Pyrenees mountain range in France. There are 44 vineyards in the region, all with informative cellar door experiences and unique masterful wines on offer. 

The Grampians

The Grampians Region was the first region to create sparkling shiraz. The surrounding highlands, circle and tower the properties of vines, almost like a soup bowl, and in every direction are astonishing views. The cellar doors in the region have an earthy vibe and quite often showcase live music from local artists.

Port Phillip

The Port Phillip wine zone is home to some of the most renowned wines in Australia.  The zone is split up by two main regions; Yarra Valley and The Mornington Peninsula, and then three smaller regions; The Macedon Ranges, Sunbury and Geelong. The region produces more Pinot Noir than any other wine region in Victoria because of the ocean winds coming from the Bass Strait cooling the vines and allowing the grapes more time to ripen. Port Phillip is a coastal wine zone, making it the perfect combination of a beach holiday and wine country tour.

Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley is at the top of its game for wine in Australia. It’s one of the oldest wine regions in Victoria with early production starting in the 1830s. When Phylloxera hit Victoria, the Yarra Valley somehow escaped unscathed allowing the region a prosperous head start to its surrounding regions. The Yarra River sprawls through the region, giving vines nutrients and a quenched thirst.  There are 69 wineries to visit in the Valley, some big, and some boutique, but you are bound to find what you’re looking for. If you want to visit more than one winery or have a couple glasses of vino with lunch but your spouse won’t agree to be designated driver, then Our list of wine tours will ensure a perfectly tailored tour through the spectacular region.

Looking to stay a couple of nights? Find Accommodation.

Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsulais a beautiful stretch of coast and country that wraps around Port Phillip Bay. The drive from Melbourne CBD (once you get off the highway) is stunning, with wineries farms and beautiful properties on either side of the road. This wine region only boomed in the 1970s, but since then they have certainly made their mark on the front of the cool-climate wine production. Wine Compass Tours offer extremely memorable and informative tours throughout the region and there is some incredible accommodation from luxury to affordable to cater to weary wine travellers!

Travelling with Kid? Look at our take on some great ‘Kid-Friendly Wineries‘.

The Macedon Ranges

The Macedon Ranges wine region, though small in surface area, is an essential part of the Port Phillip wine zone. Some of the vineyards lay elevated up to 700 meters above sea level, giving them complexities not commonly found in the state. 50 % of their grape production is Pinot Noir due to its perfect climatic position. If you visit this region, make sure you rug up at night, temperatures can drop quite rapidly!

Sunbury

Sunbury is a fascinating region because it has a cool-climate provided by the Macedon ranges, and Port Phillip Bay, but 45 % of its harvest is Shiraz, this makes for a very interesting mix indeed. Sunbury is quite a small region and not often the wine lovers number one pick. But it’s close to Melbourne CBD, and the wines of the region are known to age exceptionally well. 

Geelong

Geelong only received GI (Geographical Indication) in 1996, but some of the wineries in the area date back to the gold rush in the 1850s. There is so much history in this town making it equally as fascinating if wine isn’t your only means of fun. The main varieties are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but the region has ventured into a much diverse quiver of grape varietals like Viognier and Syrah. 

Gippsland 

Gippsland is the largest wine zone in Victoria but it is also the most recently declared, receiving its title in the 90s. The zone is so vast and the wineries so isolated that they tend to have their own climate, making it a very intricate viticultural zone. The zone lies east of Melbourne, taking up a rather large stretch of coastline. Its coastal position offers a cooler-climate providing perfect conditions for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 

The zone is laced together by over 50 wineries, all of which are boutique, individually run, and charismatic in their own charms. From coast to country, to the Great Dividing Range in the west, there is nothing but green pastures, rolling hills, fields of produce and of course vineyards. 

The sense of community is strong in the region and every cellar door you visit, you feel like you’ve just had a glass of wine and perhaps a feed with your old uncle Tom and aunt Sarah.

Wine Regions in Victoria

Well hopefully you’ve had a little bit of insight to the state’s wealth of wine. Victoria is abundantly rich in history and wine culture, not to mention we didn’t even dive into what you can get up to in Melbourne City, but that’s a different ten thousand word thesis.

Happy hunting, drink responsibly but most importantly have fun exploring the exquisite wine regions in Victoria. 

Beechworth has been called the younger sibling of the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsular. Located in the northeast of Victoria, the region sits comfortably between the Rutherglen wine region and the Alpine Valleys. The Beechworth wine region produces some of Victoria’s most prestigious wines, and the town itself is full of history and immersive activities. Beechworth wineries are known for their excellent cellar door experiences and wine tours; you’d be mad not to check out this pearl of paradise.

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The Top 5 Beechworth Wineries

Let’s dive right into Wine Regions’ top 5 Beechworth wineries.

Eldorado Road Wines

Eldorado, the city of gold; although the gold has now dried up, this cellar door is still thriving. Eldorado Road is located in the bustling heart of Beechworth; they opened their doors in 2015 and have been showcasing the elegance of Eldorado Wines ever since. 

The cellar door has won some worthy awards including, the Gourmet Traveller star cellar door award in 2017 and again in 2018 with the small cellar door award. The establishment does free wine tour tastings and offers a creative seasonal menu using nothing but fresh local produce. Kick your feet up in the comfortable shady courtyard, whilst experiencing the fruit of their toils. 

Make sure you purchase a glass (or a bottle) of the exquisite 2019 Eldorado Road Chardonnay. The grapes are grown in two different locations and at two differing altitudes. 70 % is at 550 m, and 30 % is at 400 m. The 70 % brings a lot of that fresh fruity acidity, pure in minerals and elegance and the other 30 % brings a unique funk to the table, giving this delicious wine a quirky profile.

Reviews
4.9 ⭐️ Google Review from 36 reviews
5.0 ⭐️ Trip Advisor from 31 reviews

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Star Lane Winery

Brett and Liz Barnes collectively have so much experience and understanding of wine, and it quite obviously shines through their product. 

Star Lane has received some worthy accolades including the 2018 Best Cellar Door Experience and the 5-star rating from James Halliday’s 2015 Wine Companion.

Star Lane isn’t just another winery; they are revolutionising the way that Australian Vignerons ( people that cultivate grapes) and winemakers think and work. Star Lane holds claim to making the first Shiraz that’s barrel-aged in Red Gum wood. The use of Australian element evokes the patriotism for Australian cultural identity and respect for the land and custodians. 

The climatic position and altitude of 450 meters bring forth mountain breezes as well as all-day sun, creating a yin and yang for wine growing. Architecturally, the estate is mesmerising and modern. The tasting room is varnished and elegant and you’re bound to learn a thing or two from the extensive wine tour tasting on offer.

Review
5.0 ⭐️  Google Review from 6 reviews
4.5 ⭐️  Trip Advisor from 37 reviews

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Indigo Vineyard

Indigo almost appears as a mirage as you approach the destination. The oasis of green vines sits amongst the bushlands between Beechworth and Wangaratta just a stone’s throw away from the Victorian Alps. The estate sits across 46 hectares on which 11 grape varieties are grown, most famous for their Chardonnays, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Indigo estate was once a hot spot for the gold rush with over 100 tons found in the area. The historical vineyard has 32 old heritage-listed buildings, each fascinating with their own slice of history and story to tell. 

Indigo offers a range of different experiences. From their wine tour tastings, their wine trail lunch, or the Indigo Mountainbike Trail to the secret vineyard. 

With gourmet platters on offer and delicious wine frivolously on pour, it’s quite easy to spend a day or two meandering through the Indigo Vineyard.

Reviews
4.6 ⭐️ Google Review from 57 reviews
4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor from 62 reviews

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Pennyweight Winery

Pennyweight Winery is an institution for environmental practices and organic/biodynamic viticulture.

The Morris family have been doing this for a long time now, and they know the secret in maximising the vineyard’s full potential. The winemakers idealise taking care of the land and avoiding any practices that interfere with the natural process of making wine. Pennyweight believes that striving towards this philosophy defines who they are and constructs their identity. 

The winery is located just outside of Beechworth. The name Pennyweight derives from the Pennyweight Flat goldfields that the estate looks over, they were discovered around 1852 at the time of the gold rush.

The onsite cellar door showcases the great white and red table wines and fortifieds on offer. The Pennyweight Gold, which is a fantastic fortified wine made from well-ripened and rich white grapes, is barrel-aged for seven years in old oak, and it is fortified with brandy spirit. The Gold is also great served with tonic and a slice of lemon and we highly recommend having a dip.

Reviews
4.5 ⭐️  Trip Advisor from 54 reviews
4.4 ⭐️   Google Review from 28 reviews

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Barrmutha 

Baarmutha is a small family-owned vineyard on the outskirts of Beechworth. The vineyard is young having planted their fist vines of Reisling, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Sagrantino in 2006.

The Estate is a sight for sore eyes; you can see the old farmhouse sitting on the hill in the distance as you follow the golden dusty road past dams, windmills, trees and vines. It really sets the vibe on what you’re about to experience.

At Baarmuth the process of the harvest is so sacred and special to them it is treated almost as a ritual. At the start of the harvest family and friends gather at the estate and hand-select the grapes, this is followed by a few glasses of celebration from the previous harvest. The love and passion for wine, show how much the winemakers at Barrmutha care for the industry and craft.

Reviews
5.0 ⭐️  Google Review from 19 reviews
5.0 ⭐️  Trip Advisor from 3 reviews

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Things to do in Beechworth

Given the plethora of incredible wineries to visit, you may not have time/want to do anything else. But then again too much of a good thing can prove to be counter-effective, so why not break it up with a bushwalk?

Woolshed Falls

This glorious nature walk is located in the Chiltern – Mt Pilot National Park, but nature isn’t the only thing you’ll find in the area, this hike is filled with hundreds of years of history. Woolshed Falls was once one of the richest goldfields in Australia. During the gold rush in the mid-1800s, up to 8000 prospectors at a time would camp along the riverbank working long hours during the day in means to find their fortune.

Be sure to pack a lunch as it’s a 2-hour return walk and perhaps your swimsuit and a towel, it would be rude not to have a dip in the calm waters of the Woolshed falls ( you might even find your own small fortune).

The Beechworth Bakery

The culinary institution claims to be “Australia’s Best Bakery”, and the general public agrees. Famous for their pies including the ‘Ned Kelly’ – a hearty steak pie topped with bacon, chess and a whole egg on top, not sure why it’s called the Ned Kelly, but it’s a cool name and its bloody delicious. 

The Ned Kelly Memorial

While you’ve got his famous pie in hand, you may as well check out his memorial: Ned Kelly, the most famous and notorious bushranger in Australia. The exhibition includes artifact like the mask he wore at the hanging, his gun named ‘betty’ and the suit of armour that Mick Jagger wore in the 70s Ned Kelly film. 

The town of Beechworth is so interesting, piled on years of history and culture. There are some great bed and breakfasts to stay at while you roam around the old streets and venture out into the vast wine country.

Looking for more regions and wineries near you?

The Bendigo wine region is intricate and fascinating. The town was built on wine and gold, but the city itself is built around prestige. The tall, British 18th century styled buildings tower over the wide roads and groomed gardens. Walking down main street kind of feels like you’re attending a victorian era garden party. But it isn’t all high tea and scones; the nightlife is known for its bluesy vibes, great bars, and quality theatre scene. 

Just outside of town begins the winding roads entwined between rolling hills of vineyards. To say that the Bendigo wine region is beautiful is like saying Brad Pitt is good looking. The region is wine boner material. 

If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Bendigo, but you’re on the fence, allow us to push you off. The best way to pick ‘where to wine’ is to understand the wine region, read up on the grape varietals, and know the top 5 Bendigo wineries in hopes to avoid visiting the ones that haven’t quite nailed it. Let’s get to it.

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Our Take on the Top 5 Bendigo Wineries

You can understand that some Bendigo wineries are better than others. We’re not going to make a list of the worst ones or anything, but we want to make sure you get the best experience. So here’s our selection of the top vineyards in the region.

1. Balgownie Estate

Balgownie Estate isn’t just a winery; it’s more of an adult wine version of Dream Land. You could spend two weeks here and not get bored if you had the cash; this place is not for the faint walleted.

Balgownie is located seven kilometres west of Bendigo in the nook of Maiden Gully, overlooking the gorgeous Myer’s Creek. The grape varieties grown at the estate are Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinot noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Viognier and Sangiovese.

Head winemaker Tony Winspear continues the Balgownie motivations, producing nothing but premium wines influenced by the renowned wines of Bordeaux.

Luxury Teepees lay nestled amongst the vineyards for guests staying overnight. There is even a houseboat cruise for the venturous spirits. The menu is seasonal, fresh and inspired by young, hard-working chefs. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are offered, which is quite uncommon for Bendigo wineries but so useful when you want eggs with your Mimosa.

4.3 ⭐️ Google Review
4 ⭐️ Trip Advisor

2. Lynnevale Estate

Lynnevale Estate is alluring to say the least. The Estate sits proudly on one of the many rolling hills in Mandurang, overlooking its vineyards and lake. The onsite bed and breakfast has been rated highly by guests, and the staff are personal and uphold the reputation for being incredibly hospitable. 

Lynnevale focuses predominantly on white wines which is a breath of fresh air in the heart of red wine country. The first vines on the premises were planted in 1999. The grapes are young, but the wines show modern complexities. 

The restaurant peers fondly over the vineyard and has an Asian inspired decor and menu. Lynnevale Estate is a retreat to remember.

5.0 ⭐️ Google Review

4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor

3. Sandhurst Ridge Winery 

Sandhurst truly is an oasis, a diamond in the rough, that’s not to say its surroundings are ‘the rough’, but this example of perfection is a gem. 

Generations of Italian viticulture influence the winemaking at Sandhurst; The Greblo family migrated to Victoria, leaving Italy behind after World War 2. They launched Sandhurst Ridge Winery in 1989 and have been producing vino at the highest quality ever since.

The estate resembles that of a vineyard in Italy, with high brick cottages peeping over luscious green vines. The accommodation onsite takes shade from the surrounding evergreens, and the verandas spill out into the vineyard. 

Sandhurst Ridge focuses on red wines with the exception of their Sauvignon Blanc which has an exciting flavour complexion with hints of tropical fruit, a glossy texture and notes of spice. 

The winery has received five-stars from the James Halliday Wine Companion and it’s certainly an experience to tick of your to-do list.

5.0 ⭐️ Google Review
4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor

4. Harcourts Valley Vineyards

This institute is an example of hard work, creativity and diversity. They brew beer, ginger beer, mead as well as wine; they have even created a new alcoholic sparkling that’s made of 100 % Australian mangos.

Harcourts Valley Vineyard is the oldest vineyard in the shire, and it’s also the most decorated vineyard for its products with over 500 awards. It’s very easy to get wined out when the pallet starts to fade, and the grapes just taste like grapes, but there are so many different drinks to choose from when you visit it’s almost overwhelming. 

The vineyard is a thirty-minute drive south of Bendigo, but the experience is well worth the trip.  

4.7 ⭐️ Google Review

4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor

5. Sutton Grange Winery

Sutton Grange Winery was once known as a thoroughbred racing facility called Fairbanks which now titles their second wine label. The now, transformed establishment produces premium wines that are approachable fresh and fruit-driven. They have taken a ‘left of centre’ approach when it comes to grape varietal working with wines like Sangiovese, Syrah, Fiano and a good range of Rosés.

Sutton is one of the best wineries in Bendigo when it comes to offering tasting tours. There is an abundance of food packages to choose from that includes fresh tasting platters, cheeseboards and grazing plates all matched with wines crafted by chief winemaker Melanie Chester. 

The Winery is only a twenty-five-minute drive from Bendigo by car, but the tricky thing is, you may need a wheelbarrow to get in your front door after a day of delicious food and hearty wine.

4.6 ⭐️ Google Review

4.5 ⭐️ Trip Advisor

The Top Things To Do in Bendigo

Look, wine isn’t the be-all and end-all in Bendigo, the town was built on a rich history that shines through to this very day portrayed by the people, the arts, the food and the yes the wine. But there are a few exact attraction you should partake in that we highly recommend.

The Bendigo Blues Tram

Now you might be from Melbourne City and hop on trams every day of your life but have you ever watched a blues concert on one? The Bendigo Blues and Roots festival was cultivated by some local emerging artists that wanted the town (and beyond) to hear the talent that Bendigo was producing. The festival has become a massive part of the culture in Bendigo and has grown from being month-long to pretty much year-round.  The Blues Tram is just one of the many gigs you can attend with every third laneway bellowing blues from the heart. 

The Babylon Lounge and Garden Bar

It’s super important to know where to go after dark in a new town. It’s easy to stumble upon a bar you don’t know anything about, conned into sitting down, handed a sickly, sugary, margarita, a flat beer with no head, and you end up spending the whole time upset about your sticky elbows stuck to the table you’re sitting at. None of the above will happen at  The Babylon Lounge. The place is decorated with hanging garden plants, wall climbers, innovative graffiti, and quirky stuff to look at in every direction. They have an epic selection of craft beers, and the fried chicken is all time. Make sure you check it out.

The Serpentine Canoe Trail

Alongside a heap of cool things to do in town, there are some riveting outdoor activities on the outskirts of the city. The Canoe Trail has levels of difficulty from beginner to advanced, with cheap hire and even lessons on offer. Paddling down a gentle river with great company, the breeze behind you and the sun above makes for a full day of fun.

Time to grab a friend and Visit Bendigo

Well, hopefully, you’ve learnt a little bit about the history, culture, wine and the hard-working people that make Bendigo tick; if you haven’t, then you’ve got problems, I give up. If you have, then we strongly suggest you take the plunge and start planning your wine trip to Bendigo.  

Yarra Valley wineries are some of the most popular in Victoria, why? Because it’s only an hour east of Melbourne City and people are lazy, that and the wine in the Yarra Valley is bizarrely delicious.

To encapsulate exactly what the region has to offer, we’ve dug up the inside scoop on the best wineries in the Yarra Valley and compiled it into a list of seven vineyards that are highly rated.

We’ll delve into some local knowledge on the area so you can head to the wine region with a couple of bragging facts for your mates.

There are also some world-class Yarra Valley wine tours that you can get involved with. They are informative, affordable and also someone else has to drive which is a bonus.

Alongside visiting the best Yarra Valley wineries, there are plenty of other means to spend your time and money; breathtaking scenery, romantic escapes, luxury accommodation, theme parks, art galleries, live music and the list goes on.

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The Best Wineries in the Yarra Valley

With 80 wineries in the Yarra Valley to choose from, picking the best ones can be overwhelming, living in a constant state of fear that you’ll pick the wrong wineries, losing sleep at night causing a lack of productivity at work; it’s a downward spiral into depression.

So here is a composed list of seven Yarra Valley wineries that will guarantee satisfaction and a healthy mental state of mind.

Stones of the Yarra Valley

Stones of the Yarra Valley has developed an outstanding reputation for its delicious seasonal menus, extensive wine list and flawless service.

The Stables at Stones is one of the Yarra Valley’s most visited food and wine destinations. Throughout the late 1800s the Stables historic building served as the stablehand quarters of the property before being transformed into the fine-dining space that it is today.

The Stables offers a wine list that’s carefully curated to showcase the Yarra Valley’s finest producers alongside a range of international wine selections.

All about shared plates with wine to match. The menu is ever-changing, which is exciting for guests. The staff are so lovely and so is the Stones in general. The views are stunning and we highly recommend adding this place to your ‘must-see’ list of wineries in the Yarra Valley.

Visit: The Stones

Address: 14 St Huberts Rd
Coldstream VIC 3770

Reviews:

4.6 Google Review from 496 reviews

4.5 Trip Advisor from 253 reviews

Oakridge Wines

Oakridge Wines pairs hand-crafted wines and food in a beautiful and seamless way. The winery is a family-owned winery, restaurant and cellar door, founded in 1978. Oakridge is a well-known, award-winning winery with its wine being sold in bottle shops, online and found on restaurant menus.

Exceptional service, food and wine are what to expect when visiting Oakridge.

Oakridge chefs have created an impeccable menu with ethical food sourcing. They have a zero-waste menu philosophy, with all of their ingredients either grown in the Oakridge garden or sourced from local farms and producers.

Visit: Oakridge

Address: 864 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream VIC 3770

Reviews:

4.5 Google Review from 395 reviews

4.5 Trip Advisor from 518 reviews

Domaine Chandon

During the mid-1980s, a team of Chandon’s wine connoisseurs stumbled upon Green Point, an old dairy farm in the Yarra Valley. The cool climate region and quality soil was the perfect home for Domaine Chandon.

Domaine Chandon’s traditions come from Champagne house Moët & Chandon, but its expertise is planted in the Yarra Valley wine region. They are the only Australian sparkling specialists with genuine French heritage and are well recognised in the industry.

Today, Domaine Chandon has a great reputation and winery with a lovely restaurant, delicious food and professional staff.

Visit: Domain Chandon

Address: 727 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream VIC 3770

Reviews:

4.3 Google Review from 541 reviews

4.0 Trip Advisor from 539 reviews

De Bertoli Wines

This winery is a family-owned company, being passed down through four generations since it was first founded in 1928. The De Bortoli family purchased the Yarra Valley Estate in 1987, after setting their sights upon a well-known cool-climate region, perfect for producing high-quality wines. The first vineyard was planted in 1971, which makes this winery one of the oldest vineyards in the Yarra Valley.

Today, this Yarra Valley winery is managed by third-generation family member, Leanne De Bortoli and her chief winemaker and husband – Stephen Webber. De Bertoli is an amazing, family-friendly winery which has stunning views overlooking the regions hills and neighbouring vineyards.

Visitors are encouraged to indulge in traditional Italian-style food in the upstairs restaurant. If you head into the cellar door, you can try some of the winery’s favourites like their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Visit: De Bortoli

Address: 58 Pinnacle Ln, Dixons Creek VIC 3775

Reviews:

4.5 Google Review from 296 reviews

4.5 Trip Advisor from 494 reviews

TarraWarra Estate

TarraWarra Estate is one of the best wineries in the Yarra Valley and a must-see destination. It is well-known for its art museum, fine wine, striking architecture, seasonal food and friendly atmosphere.

TarraWarra wines are grown and made with gentle care and attention. Winemaker Clare Halloran aims to nurture the natural balance and harmony of the wine, reflecting the vine age and season of the estate grown fruit.

Since the TarraWarra art museum opened in 2003, it has become recognised as a somewhat cultural jewel of the Yarra Valley. It provides visitors with an enjoyable and inspiring experience, combining stunning architecture with modern and contemporary art.

Visit: TarraWarra Estate

Address: 311 Healesville-Yarra Glen Rd, Yarra Glen VIC 3775

Reviews:

4.5 Google Review from 360 reviews

4.5 Trip Advisor from 270 reviews

Coombe Yarra Valley

Former home to the world-famous opera singer Dame Nellie Melba, Coombe Yarra Valley is a unique gourmet and cultural destination. Visitors are treated to an exceptional dining experience featuring award-winning Coombe Farm wines, whilst overlooking picturesque views.

The restaurant at Coombe Yarra Valley only uses the best local produce available. The delicious menu is accompanied by their award-winning estate wines.

A gorgeous winery placed amongst seven acres, with beautiful gardens, great wine and food. The staff are knowledgeable, super friendly and accommodating. Coombe is a great place to spend the day or even just the afternoon.

Visit: Coombe Yarra Valley

Address: 673-675 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream VIC 3770

Reviews:

4.3 Google Review from 363 reviews

4.0 Trip Advisor from 285 reviews

Dominique Portet

Ninth-generation winemaker Dominique Portet chose the cool climate Yarra Valley as home to the winery he founded back in 2000.

Now tenth generation son, Ben, leads the winemaking team, keeping the tradition alive.

The wines are to be easily enjoyed and traditional in their own way. You can immerse yourself in a wine tour to learn all about the history of the winery. There is also a homewares store to explore if you’re wanting something a little different.

Delicious rustic French food, stunning views with wine to match. Dominique Portet is a must-visit when heading to the Yarra Valley.

Visit: Dominique Portet

Address: 870-872 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream VIC 3770

Reviews:

4.3 Google Review from 152 reviews

4.5 Trip Advisor from 147 reviews

Looking For Things To Do In The Yarra Valley?

There is so much more to do than just visit the Yarra Valley wineries; gardens, parks, markets, theme parks and if you’re in the area at the time you’d be silly not to check out The Wine Machine, Yarra Valley that’s held at Rochford Wines.

Wine Machine Festival, Yarra Valley

Wine Machine is a big mixed barrel of premium wines, great Australian music, summer vibes and good times. The festival takes place at Rochford Wines and this year the line-up is all time; including bands like Hot Dub Time Machine, The Naked and Famous, The Jungle Giants , Regards “Ride It”, Bag Raiders, NorthEast Party House, Alice Ivy, Young Franco and Don West.

The Ada Tree Trail

We always include at least one physical activity because A) wine and restaurant food for three days straight isn’t entirely healthy and B) there are so many cool outdoor activities and adventures out there you’d be insane not to experience some. The Ada Tree Trail meanders through the Yarra Ranges and reaches a distance of 3.2 kilometres, approximately a 1.5-hour return trip. Check out some of the oldest and largest trees in Australia; some reach 73 meters high and date back over 300 years!

Healesville Sanctuary

Healesville lies in the heart of the Yarra Valley and focuses on native Australian animals. They care for and protect over 1500 animals that have either been brought in or rescued. Get up close and personal with kangaroos, emus, wombats and many other cute furry friends.

If you live in Melbourne, make a day trip out to the Yarra Valley. For those inter-state travellers, numerous cellar doors have luxurious accommodation on offer, why not make a week out of it.

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