The finest wines from Australia’s viticulture began way back in 1788. Australian winemaking has kept that proud tradition to this day and across 65 designated wine regions. Quality, bountiful and beautiful Australian wines make Australia the fifth largest exporter of wine in the world. When the harvest season starts from early February to late April, that’s the perfect time to start your tour. With so many great vines and places to choose from, it can get a bit overwhelming, but that’s why we put together this nifty list to browse while you travel to your next destination.
1. The Yarra Valley – where it all began
All stories have a beginning, and Yarra Valley is where Australian winemaking began. The first grapes were mashed and made into superb wines, just a bit eastward from Melbourne. From way back in 1838, the Yarra Valley region began with groundbreaking invocations in winemaking. From specialised bottles to regional traditions, there is much to learn and explore.
We don’t want to spoil the fun, but we can say that chardonnay and pinot noir are their forte. Vintage restaurants, decorated with vine elements, offer quality appetisers and meals to supplement your pinot noir, shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, and chardonnay choices. And when you are done, you can even drink wine from a hot air balloon as there are tours available where you can gaze at the entire Yarra Valley from above.
2. Hunter Valley – Vine Cellars galore
Right next to Newcastle, you can get here in just under 90 minutes. Plan B takes about three and a half hours from Syndey, but it’s worth taking. Hunter Valley is the eternal home of the father of Australian wine James Busby, who, in the 19th century, brought 20,000 vine cuttings to Australia from Europe. From that point to now, Hunter Valley became famous for its full-flavoured chardonnay, earthy shiraz and Semillon vines. There are old estates, luxury restaurants, over 150 rustic vine cellars and premium, exclusive wine tastings all around Hunter Valley at any time. Find a perfect Hunter Valley accommodation, book a stay during one of Hunter Valley’s many concerts with a friend or a loved one, and enjoy a party with some of the finest vines Australia has to offer.
3. Adelaide Hills – Little Germany in Australia
Hop on to the little nested city of Adelaide and take a short scenic drive to its Adelaide Hills. In less than an hour, you will see why this region became famous. Australia’s notable Penfolds’ Magill Estate cellar door is located here for a good reason. Wines like pinot noir are made here in great quantities and go perfectly with the traditional food brought over by German settlers. Gazing at the scenery while sipping good wine and eating bratwurst and other German delicacies will make you fall in love with Adelaide.
Sauvignon blanc and sparkling chardonnay are also on our to-sample list and should not be forgotten. The best part about Adelaide Hills is that there are plenty of ins, motels, and ways to stay over once you get tipsy from all that wine tasting. Lay back after a hearty meal and let your gaze get lost in the green hills that mimic the ocean. After one visit, Adelaide Hills will become your green haven for years to come.
4. Mornington Peninsula – Beaches and wine
Who says that wine tasting has to be all about hills and pastures? Mornington Peninsula breaks this mould by introducing beaches to the mix. Australia’s maritime wine region, Mornington Peninsula, is next to Melbourne and easily reachable by car or regular wine tours. Even thou Mornington Peninsula is next to Melbourne, it still has its special microclimate, which is responsible for Mornington Peninsula’s perfect pinot noir and chardonnay. Green pastures harbour free, organic range and succulent meat choices to compliment your wine tasting.
For the first time, we wholeheartedly recommend visiting during the VineHop Festival. Mornington Peninsula’s unique location also offers a wine tasting experience at the beach. Gazing at the ocean while your naked feet are relaxing in the sand, munching on quality appetisers while great wine is being poured into your glass, is an experience that will bring you back to Mornington Peninsula again and again.
Starting your Australian wine exploring journey begins with the first sip. Wherever you land, you will find great wines to sip on. With each region visited in any order you want, you will piece together Australia’s rich wine history. Exploring the past and enjoying the fruits of its labour today takes time. Don’t rush your journey, savour it and enjoy each moment. Vineyards are not going anywhere and are all waiting for you to visit. Savouring and enjoying your adventure is one of life’s greatest delights. One that we wish for you to embark on as soon as possible. We wish you all the best, and share as many pictures as you can!
READ MORE
