Wineries near Melbourne in Victoria, Australia benefit greatly from the area’s proximity to the sea and its cool climate. Its location and atmospheric conditions are perfect for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, making the area known for impeccable sparkling wines and cool-climate still wines.
While Victoria itself is the smallest and southernmost wine region in the country, with the exception of the island of Tasmania, its renowned wine districts of Geelong, the Mornington Peninsula and the Yarra Valley are home to some of the world’s leading sparkling wine producers. Australia’s largest.
Geelong has craft wines. Their family owned boutiques ensure that the unique characters of the region are developed in their grapes and that they maximize the potential of their grapes by making everything by hand. Pinot noir, chardonnay and shiraz dominate the region’s varietals, but exotics such as primitivo, gamay, lagrein and carmenere have also recently become abundant. Visiting Geelong would allow you to sample some of the award-winning shiraz and chardonnay and take in the dynamic views of the mountainsides and rugged coastline.
The Mornington Peninsula is home to over 50 of Melbourne’s most impressive wineries. Its temperate maritime climate lends a distinct quality to its wines, which include Pinot Noir and Chardonnay Supreme, as well as Riesling, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and a few other notable varietals. The area prides itself not only on its exceptional cool-climate wines, but also on its lush olive groves and panoramic valley views.
However, it was the Yarra Valley that started it all in Victoria in the 19th century. Today, more than 70 wineries are located in this picturesque region of pioneer winemakers. The most prominent include The Fergusson Vineyard, Yering Station, and Domaine Chandon.
The Fergusson family started their vineyard in 1968. Today, they grow classic French grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Its restaurant overlooks the tranquil vineyard, which is the perfect backdrop for a large group, family reunion, or romantic date.
Among the award-winning wineries near Melbourne is Yering Station. This Australian Tourism Hall of Fame winner offers a multifaceted experience of the region with its a la carte restaurant, cafe and bar, tastings and cellar door sales, local produce shop, art gallery, self-guided tours and farmers markets.
Domaine Chandon, established by the French champagne house Moët & Chandon in 1986, produces only traditional method sparkling wine and premium cool-climate still wines. Its unique wine culture attracts more than 100,000 visitors a year.
In fact, this Victorian neighborhood’s wine country may not be the largest in size and number, but it’s definitely a major player in showcasing sparkling wines and stellar landscapes.
