Australian and New Zealand boast an abundance of wine regions well worth discovering, with each boasting top cellar doors, award-winning restaurants and breathtaking landscapes.
Australia is world renowned for its wine production, with regions like Yarra Valley, Margaret River and Hunter Valley as must-visits for any oenophile.
1. Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine regions, renowned for producing world-renowned wines both local and foreign. Situated just one hour outside Melbourne, it makes the ideal wine lover getaway or day trip destination.
The Yarra Valley is famed for its cool climate, producing high-quality wines in every variety imaginable – from chardonnay and pinot noir to nebbiolo and savagnin, there is an extensive variety available here.
Winemakers from Yarra Valley are passionate about their craft and love to share it with visitors. They will guide you through each step in making each of their wines, explaining how each process works and the factors involved in their making.
2. Margaret River
Margaret River in Western Australia is an inviting region where you can indulge in gourmet local produce and wine, soak up breathtaking scenery, meet some of its top producers and artisans, explore vineyards on a wine trail or book a behind-the-scenes experience – or immerse yourself even further by staying over at one of its wineries for an overnight stay!
The region’s winemaking scene has long been dominated by Cabernet and Chardonnay grapes, the mainstays since 1967. Thanks to ocean influence, these grapes exhibit more restrained elegance than their Australian counterparts.
Not only can this region boast beautiful wine, but there are also an abundance of natural attractions including beaches, rock formations and forests to be discovered here. Additionally, Hamelin Bay provides children with an amazing swimming opportunity – its waters feature thousands of sting rays which swim right up to shore!
3. Hunter Valley
The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine region, renowned for its exquisite varieties of semillon and shiraz wines. Offering over 150 cellar doors as well as innovative restaurants – it makes an excellent gourmet getaway destination!
Close proximity to Sydney has contributed greatly to its rising popularity. Today, the most frequently produced wines include Chardonnay, Semillon and Verdelho for whites; Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot are popular options among red varieties.
Hunter Valley is an essential stop for wine enthusiasts. Boasting over 150 vineyards, it provides the opportunity to learn about Australian wine history while tasting some of the world’s finest vintages.
4. Marlborough
Marlborough is one of New Zealand’s premier winemaking regions due to its warm yet temperate climate, which helps grapes develop flavorful bouquets.
As part of its dedication to sustainability in winemaking, this region emphasizes organic farming methods and water conservation. Home to innovative vineyards such as Giesen, FROMM and Seresin Estate.
At Marlborough wineries, you’ll be treated to an abundance of wines – from Pinot Noir to rich Chardonnay. Family-friendly tasting sessions and casual tours are available, too.
5. Wairarapa
Wairarapa, situated approximately an hour’s drive from Wellington, is an idyllic region of rolling valleys and small towns with plenty to offer visitors – vineyards, gourmet food and an arts scene make Wairarapa an excellent place to discover.
Wairarapa sub-region of Martinborough is well known for producing top quality pinot noir wines, as well as vibrant Sauvignon Blancs, complex aromatic wines and Syrahs.
Martinborough boasts numerous boutique wineries that are within walking distance from Martinborough’s charming colonial village, making a visit to wineries an essential component of exploring this part of New Zealand.https://www.youtube.com/embed/7TohQR4Eru4