To partake in the natural beauty of the this region of Victoria, explore the history and scenic surroundings of the Ballarat Gold Trail.
Or take the Mount Alexander Diggings Trail, the Koori Heritage Trail or the Ballarat Chinese Heritage Trail. Last but not least sample the gracious local wines of the Great Grape Touring Route.
The wine regions of Ballarat, Bendigo, best known for its big reds, Heathcote and the Pyrenees are all located near Melbourne Australia, with over 23 wineries in the area.
And although similar in name, the Victorian Pyrenees are actually quite unlike the mountain ranges located between Spain and France.
Signature Wine Styles
Yet the French connections run deep in this region’s wine history, with the Blue Pyrenees Estate winery and the Taltarni winery reflecting their their true French origins. While this link has associated the region with sparkling wines, as well as brandy, its specialty are reds. These wines tend to be both deep and flavoursome.
Signature wine styles to be found in the region: Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
Here is a short list of some of the more notable ones in the Goldfields
Pyrenees
Blue Pyrenees Estate
Among natural surroundings with extensive landscaped gardens, savour the experience and enjoy wine tastings of the internationally acclaimed red, white and sparkling wines. Dining: Lunch on weekends and public holidays. Cellar door sales: 10am - 4.30pm weekdays, 10am-5pm weekends.
The Taltarni cellar door is relaxed and friendly, surrounded by gardens and scenic vineyards. Taltarni Vineyards run special events throughout the year, including the Taltarni Cup in October, a horse race held at the local Avoca race track. Dining: Open daily, Taltarni’s Red. Cellar door sales: 10am - 5pm daily
Warrenmang has become a paradise for lovers of wine, food and nature. In addition to being a successful winery, it offers excellent conference facilities, a fine dining restaurant and accommodation.
Dining: At Warrenmang Guests dine in a celebrated restaurant famous for sensational regional food, superb wines and legendary hospitality. Open 7 days, all day dining menu and espresso coffee available in the bar or alfresco on the sundeck overlooking the vineyards or by the pool. Accommodation: A tranquil and charming hillside gourmet retreat. A lovely unique Australian experience. Cellar door sales: 10am - 5pm daily
A family run winery producing stylish, classy wines that let the strong regional characteristics show through. The cellar door is simple but quite enjoyable for the wine enthusiast. Cellar door sales: 10am - 5pm daily
Chepstowe is a true Australian boutique winery offering an informal experience, with individual attention from the Wallace Family who both own and operate the vineyard. Excellent examples of cool climate wines made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. Cellar door sales: 10am - 5pm daily. On Weekdays, telephone first. Signposted from the Ballarat / Carngham / Beaufort Road.
Provides its visitors with a relaxing café style atmosphere in which to enjoy an excellent range of wines and gourmet meals. The reception centre overlooks vines and rose gardens, providing the perfect venue for weddings and conferences. Dining: Gourmet café style and alfresco. Cellar door sales: 10am - 5pm daily. Located 13kms South of Bendigo
Calder Highway, Big Hill VIC 3453
Phone: +61 3 5435 3366
Water Wheel Vineyards
Internationally renowned, high quality, well priced wines from respected producers. Cellar door sales: 11am - 5pm daily, 1pm - 4pm weekends and public holidays (May to September).
Situated in the old Thomas Craven Heathcote Stores on the main street, the cellar door has been renovated in the original Victorian style and has an art gallery inside as well. Dining: Light meals at the café on weekends. Cellar door sales: 11am–5pm daily.
Small family owned winery producing premium red and white wines at foothills of Mount Ida Range. Dining: Antipasto by prior arrangement. Cellar door sales: 10am - 5.30pm daily.
