Victoria Grampians and Pyrenees Regions
The gold discovery in western Victoria in the 1850s has been attributed to an influx of immigrants who brought vines into the country. The cool climate was perfect for vineyards to pop up in the Grampians and Pyrenees regions of Victoria.
With winters wet and cold and summers cool and dry vines struggle to survive without some irrigation. Because of the possibility of frosts in the winter, the vines are planted on the slopes of the hills.
Grampians and Pyrenees regions
There are some fantastic wine regions in Victoria. You can do some fantastic Pyrenees and Grampians touring routes where you can visit many different wineries and country towns and mountain ranges.
Blue Pyrenees Estate
Established in western Victoria in 1963 by a Frenchman Remy Martin. The estate was sold to a group of Australian businessmen in 2002, who continued with the tradition of producing great wines.
They produce Viognier, Rosé Sauvignon Blanc, and Brut to name a few. They offer a wine club and sales are available online.
Dalwhinnie Winery Pyrenees
Owned by David and Jenny Jones this vineyard was established in 1976 and covers an area of 44 acres (18 hectares). They produce Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Shiraz.
Redbank Winery
Established in 1973 and owned by Neill and Sally Robb. The cellar door is open seven days a week and offers an excellent selection of wines which include Sally Hill’s Cabernet, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir, as well as Hundred Hills Chardonnay.
There is an opportunity to enjoy some of the wines offered at the Flying Pig Deli, which serves a light lunch. Group and bus bookings are accepted. Sales of wines are available online.
Sepplets Great Western
Established in 1863 and owned by Southcorp Wines Pt. Ltd. It has 700 acres (320 hectares) under vines. During the 1860s, there were tunnels dug for nearly 2 miles (3 km). The tunnels were used to store and mature wines, in particular sparkling wines.
The estate produces Shiraz, Sparkling Shiraz, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir. The cellar door is open Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.
Take the time to visit this wine region in Victoria. It is fantastic will some amazing local history that will go with it.
