The Best Wine Regions of Victoria
Wine for Victorians is much like Guiness for the Irish, or Beer for the Germans – it something we live off. We had our priorities correct from the early days of “Melbourne”, having planted our first vines (and even producing our first cricket field) before we’d even constructed our first hospital.
However, with many varieties of wines being produced, from an ever-growing range of wine regions here in Victoria, how do you know which one you should visit.
Here is a list of our top 5 Wine Regions in Victoria, and why these should definitely be on your list to visit, whether you are a local, or just visiting for the weekend.
South Gippsland
Distance from Melbourne: 1 ½ Hours
Our Favourites: Gippsland Wine Company, Dirty Three Wines, Harman Wines
Wines Produced: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
Tucked away in the south-east corner of Victoria sits Gippsland, and more specifically, South Gippsland. Brimming with authenticity and plenty of character, this boutique wine region is one that would be easy to drive past if you didn’t know it was there. Although still largely a dairy farming region, more and more now we are seeing small cellar doors begin to pop up around the rolling green hills of this picturesque and pristine location. A visit to the charming village of Loch to start you day will set you off on the right foot, with plenty of little café’s and boutiques while away a few days. From there, you have a perfect handful of wineries to choose from, each one offering their own unique twists on some of Gippsland Cool Climate wines.
Yarra Valley
Distance from Melbourne: 1 Hour
Our Favourites: Helen & Joey Estate, Paynes Rise, St Huberts
Wines Produced: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sparkling Wine
The oldest, and the largest of the wine regions in Victoria, and without a doubt the most well-known as well. With its first vines planted back in the 1830s, the Yarra Valley wine region has definitely seen its ups and downs through the decades. However, now boasting over 160+ wineries, and 300+ vineyards, the Yarra Valley is definitely a force to be reckoned with when it comes to the most acclaimed regions throughout all of Australia. With vineyards stretching into the distant and beautiful horizons, and cellar doors producing a sense of charm as well as good wine; its no wonder why the Yarra Valley is often first on peoples list of regions to visit.
With many wineries now having onsite restaurants and boutique accommodation options, as well as a vast array of many shopping locations, you could easily spend a weekend up here and not have to worry about running out of things to do.
Mornington Peninsula
Distance from Melbourne: 1 Hour
Our Favourites: Rahona Valley, Pt Leo Estate, Crittenden Wine Centre
Wines Produced: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
Similar to the Yarra Valley in many respects, the Mornington Peninsula goes one step further and adds picturesque sparking blue water into its mix as well. Surround by both Porty Phillip Bay and Western Port Bay, no matter where you look whilst on the Mornington Peninsula, you are going to see something spectacular. Being that Sorrento, on its southern point, was the first settlement of Europeans in Victoria, its got quite the history to it as well – which adds quite some grandeur and character when meandering down some of its streets lined with old sandstone buildings, and Norfolk Pines. The wines that come out of this region are very similar to that of the Yarra Valley, however, due to its maritime location, you will find yourself savouring wines have been blessed with the gentle kiss of saltwater. A visit to Red Hill is a must if down this way; it’s here where you’ll find a large array of wineries, proudly promoting their strong bodied Pinot Noirs, set amongst the beautiful native bushland of the Mornington Peninsula.
Being that its quite the holiday spot for locals and visitors alike during summer, its small beach-side towns do fill up quite quickly, with many people filling into 70+ for a nice summer sipper on a beautiful sunny day. Make sure you head down to the likes of Rye, Sorrento, or Mt Martha, for a swim in the beautiful, crystal clear waters of Port Phillip.
Join on our Bottomless Brunch Tour of the Mornington Peninsula here
Phillip Island and the Bass Coast
Distance from Melbourne: 1 3/4 Hours
Our Favourites: Phillip Island Winery, Gurdies Winery, Silverwaters Winery, Purple Hen
Wines Produced: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
Embark on a vinous adventure in the enchanting Phillip Island wine region, where sun-kissed vineyards thrive amidst coastal beauty. Discover a mosaic of flavors as boutique wineries unveil their distinctive varietals, echoing the island’s unique terroir. From the refined Sparkling Pinot Grigios to the robust Cabernet Sauvignons, each bottle encapsulates the essence of this idyllic island escape. Sip your way through a landscape that harmonizes rolling vineyards with stunning ocean panoramas, creating a sensory symphony. With welcoming cellar doors and gastronomic delights, Phillip Island’s wine scene invites you to relish the fusion of coastal charm and exceptional cool-climate wines.
Geelong & The Bellarine Peninsula
Distance from Melbourne: 1 1/2 Hours
Our Favourites: Scotchman’s Hill, Jack Rabbit, Provenance Wines
Wines Produced: Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Merlot
Indulge your senses in the exquisite charm of the Bellarine Peninsula wine region, where rolling hills meet pristine shores to create a picturesque backdrop for world-class vineyards. Unearth a symphony of flavors as you explore boutique wineries crafting exceptional cool-climate wines. From the crisp Chardonnays to robust Pinot Noirs, each sip tells a tale of the region’s unique terroir. Immerse yourself in a journey of palate-pleasing delights, complemented by breathtaking coastal vistas. With cellar doors offering warm hospitality and culinary pairings, the Bellarine Peninsula invites you to savor the essence of Australian winemaking in every exquisite drop.
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