Victoria, Australia’s smallest mainland state, is home to more than 800 wineries spread across 21 distinct wine regions. While the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula are widely recognized, there is an abundance of lesser-known regions that promise unique wine experiences and exceptional vintages. This guide takes you through some of Victoria’s hidden gems, where intrepid wine lovers can discover new flavors and unforgettable landscapes.
Alpine Valleys: A Cool Climate Paradise
Located in Victoria’s High Country, the Alpine Valleys wine region is a quiet gem. Known for its cool climate and diverse terroir, the region produces some of the most elegant and aromatic wines in Australia. Its pristine landscapes and crisp mountain air set the stage for a memorable wine-tasting experience.
Feathertop Winery, run by owner Janelle Boynton, is a standout in the area. “Our unique microclimate allows us to craft wines with exceptional balance and finesse,” Boynton says. The winery’s award-winning Riesling and Shiraz, paired with stunning views of Mount Buffalo, are not to be missed.
Gippsland: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Stretching from Melbourne’s eastern suburbs to the New South Wales border, Gippsland offers a vast array of wines, from cool-climate Pinot Noir to bold Shiraz. Often overlooked, this diverse region is gaining recognition for its innovative approach to winemaking.
Harry Friend of Narkoojee Winery is enthusiastic about Gippsland’s untapped potential. “We’re not bound by tradition here, which allows us to experiment and create truly unique wines,” Friend notes. Visitors can sample their acclaimed Chardonnay while enjoying the picturesque vineyard setting.
Grampians: Bold Reds and Rich History
The Grampians region, known for its rugged beauty and ancient Aboriginal rock art, is also home to some of Victoria’s oldest vineyards. Despite its relatively low profile among wine tourists, the Grampians produces exceptional Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon that rival those from more famous regions.
Damien Sheehan of Mount Langi Ghiran explains the region’s unique appeal: “Our cool climate and granitic soils give our wines a distinctive pepper and spice profile that you won’t find anywhere else.” The iconic Langi Shiraz is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.
Beechworth: Small in Size, Big on Flavor
Tucked away in northeast Victoria, Beechworth may be small, but it is renowned for producing some of Australia’s finest wines. The town’s boutique wineries specialize in exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz.
At Savaterre Winery, winemaker Keppell Smith emphasizes a philosophy of minimal intervention: “We let the vineyard speak for itself, preserving the unique characteristics of our terroir.” A visit to Savaterre offers a chance to explore some of the country’s most sought-after Chardonnays.
Henty: Cool-Climate Gems on the Edge of the Southern Ocean
Victoria’s far southwest region, Henty, benefits from a maritime climate influenced by the Southern Ocean. This cool environment is ideal for producing elegant, long-lived wines, particularly Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Belinda Thomson of Crawford River Wines, a fourth-generation winemaker, highlights the region’s natural acidity and freshness. “It’s exciting to see more people discovering the unique qualities of Henty wines,” she says. A visit to Crawford River offers not only exceptional wines but also a deep connection to the family’s winemaking legacy.
Macedon Ranges: Victoria’s Best-Kept Secret
Just an hour from Melbourne, the Macedon Ranges is one of Australia’s coolest wine regions. Known for its sparkling wines, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, the region’s high altitude and diverse soils allow for the creation of wines of remarkable finesse and longevity.
Matt Harrop of Curly Flat Vineyard explains, “The Macedon Ranges is a winemaker’s dream, offering a unique combination of altitude, cool climate, and diverse soils.” The region’s Pinot Noir, in particular, has earned acclaim as one of Australia’s finest.
Pyrenees: A Hidden Oasis of Fine Wines
Nestled beneath the Pyrenees mountain range, this wine region offers a diverse range of robust reds and crisp whites. The area’s microclimates and varied soils contribute to its exceptional wine quality.
Andrew Koerner of Blue Pyrenees Estate praises the region’s versatility: “The Pyrenees offers the best of both worlds – elegant cool-climate varieties like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, alongside full-bodied reds like Shiraz and Cabernet.” The winery’s award-winning sparkling wines are a highlight of the region.
Rutherglen: A Sweet Surprise in Northeast Victoria
Known worldwide for its fortified wines, Rutherglen also produces a diverse array of wines, from crisp whites to rich reds. The region’s fortified Muscadelle is a local treasure, often described as “liquid gold.”
Stephen Chambers of Chambers Rosewood Winery continues his family’s legacy of producing exceptional fortified wines. “We’re excited to show visitors the full range of what our region can produce, from Marsanne to Durif,” he says. The winery’s Muscadelle remains a signature offering for anyone visiting the area.
Planning Your Victoria Wine Adventure
When exploring Victoria’s wine regions, consider staying at boutique accommodations located among the vineyards. Many wineries offer on-site lodging, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the wine country experience. The luxury eco-pods at Montalto Vineyard on the Mornington Peninsula combine sustainability with comfort for an unforgettable stay.
To make the most of your adventure, join organized wine tours that include transportation between wineries. These tours allow you to sample wines responsibly while learning from expert guides about the region’s winemaking history and techniques. For a more active experience, combine your wine tour with outdoor activities like hiking or cycling through the scenic landscapes.
Savoring Local Flavors
No visit to Victoria’s wine country is complete without indulging in the region’s local cuisine. Many wineries feature outstanding restaurants, offering seasonal dishes paired with the finest local wines. At Provenance Restaurant in Beechworth, Chef Michael Ryan creates innovative menus that highlight the area’s fresh produce.
For a more relaxed dining experience, enjoy a picnic among the vines. Many wineries offer hampers filled with local cheeses, charcuterie, and freshly baked bread — the perfect accompaniment to a bottle of wine purchased on-site.
Embracing Sustainable Wine Tourism
As you explore Victoria’s hidden wine regions, consider supporting wineries that prioritize sustainability. Many vineyards in the state are adopting organic and biodynamic farming methods, ensuring that they minimize their environmental footprint while producing top-quality wines.
Julian Castagna of Castagna Vineyard, a pioneer of biodynamic viticulture in Australia, explains the importance of sustainable practices: “Biodynamic farming allows us to work in harmony with nature, resulting in wines that truly express the character of our terroir.”
Conclusion
Victoria’s underrated wine regions offer a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s the cool-climate elegance of the Alpine Valleys, the rich history of Rutherglen, or the diverse terroirs of the Pyrenees, each region offers a unique experience for wine lovers. By venturing off the beaten path, you may just find your new favorite wine in the most unexpected place. Cheers to the spirit of adventure and the joy of discovery that every glass in Victoria’s wine country promises.
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