I’ve always believed in traveling for great wine, and Australia is a prime destination for this. While the country is packed with stunning sights, its numerous delightful vineyards are a strong draw. Australia’s wines enjoy global acclaim, so it’s a must-visit for any wine enthusiast.
With over sixty wine regions in Australia, picking just a few vineyards to visit can be a challenge. So, I’ve put together a list of some exceptional vineyards that you shouldn’t miss on your trip.
To start, De Bortoli, one of the largest and oldest vineyards in the Yarra Valley, has an Italian heritage dating back to 1987. Spread over nearly 600 acres, it offers behind-the-scenes tours where you can sample wines straight from the barrel and enjoy a cheese and wine meal in the Trophy Room. Their standout product is the ‘Noble One’ dessert wine, with the Yarra Valley also known for its pinot noir, sparkling wines, and cool-climate wines. Located just northeast of Melbourne, it’s a must-visit if you’re nearby.
The Margaret River region, three hours south of Perth, hosts over 120 wine producers known for Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Semillon, and Shiraz. Vasse Felix, established in 1965 by Dr. Thomas Cullity, is notable here. Inspired by a study comparing the climate and soil to Bordeaux, Cullity’s efforts led to the first wine production by 1972. The vineyard offers tours, tastings, and experiences to learn about food and wine pairing.
The Barossa Valley welcomed its first European settlers in 1842, leading to the creation of 150 wineries. Jacobs Creek, the first commercial vineyard, offers delicious food and wine master-classes, as well as picnic opportunities in the beautiful valley surroundings.
Penfolds Magill Estate, established in 1844 near Adelaide, stands out as one of the few urban vineyards. Known for its Grange wine, considered the finest in Australia, the estate boasts underground tunnels, bluestone cellars, and a top-notch restaurant.
In McLaren Vale, d’Arenberg keeps traditional winemaking alive with methods like basket-pressed and foot-treaded grapes. Beyond its quality wines, it offers visitors the chance to blend and name their own wine at The Blending Bench.
Audrey Wilkinson, dating back to 1866, is nestled in the Hunter Valley, home to Australia’s oldest vineyards. Located on scenic foothills, visitors stay in charming cottages while enjoying spectacular views and hand-crafted wines.
On Mornington Peninsula south of Melbourne, Montalto offers visitors a vineyard experience plus an olive grove, stunning architecture, and a charming restaurant. With options for golf, estate tours, and gourmet meals, it provides a memorable visit.
Clare Valley holds one of Australia’s most beautiful vineyards, established by a Jesuit monastery in 1851. Known now for its Riesling, Sevenhills offers both self-guided and staff-guided tours.
In Swan Valley, Lancaster Wines sits along the scenic river and is part of a popular food and wine trail. Known for a variety of wines like Verdelho and Chardonnay, it’s a great stop near Perth.
Finally, Tasmania’s Relbia region offers cool-climate grapes and vineyards, specializing in Pinot Noir and sparkling wines—definitely worth exploring on a visit to the island.
