Victoria, Australia – Your Next Wine Destination
If you’re a wine lover and Australia is at the top of your bucket list, Victoria, Australia should be your next wine destination. The state has more wine producers than any other in Australia, with over 800 wineries and 600 cellar doors across 21 distinct wine regions – so there really is a wine for every palate.
Below you’ll find the key facts about Victorian wine, the varieties the state is known for, and the wineries you shouldn’t skip, so you can plan your trip like a real boss.
Victoria, Australia – One of the Biggest Wine Regions in the Country
Victoria has more wine producers than the other Australian wine-producing states. More than 800 wineries prove it, and viticulture has existed here since the 19th century.
Victorian wine reached its historical peak in the 1890s, when the region produced more than half of all the wine made in Australia. Today Victoria ranks third in overall wine production, simply because it lacks mass bulk-wine areas such as New South Wales’ Riverina or South Australia’s Riverland.
Wine lovers from across the globe adore Victorian wine, and you won’t regret paying it a visit.
Types of Wine Commonly Produced in Victoria
Victoria’s classic varieties are:
- Shiraz
- Chardonnay
- Cabernet
- Merlot
- Sauvignon Blanc
During the late 1990s and 2000s, Victorian producers also turned to Viognier, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir, Nebbiolo and Pinot Gris, as well as Lagrein, Tannat and Graciano.
Victorian styles range from lighter Pinot Noirs to medium and full-bodied Shiraz and Cabernets. Its red wines are generally considered more elegant than the robust styles of South Australia.
What the Label Tells You
Since the 1960s, Australia’s labelling laws have focused on identifying the geographic origin of the grapes. In practice, at least 85% of the grapes must come from the region named on the wine label.
The Best Wineries You Shouldn’t Skip in Victoria
With over 800 wineries and 600 cellar doors in 21 distinct wine regions, Victoria has a wine for literally every palate. Here are two great places to start.
Olivigna at Pietro Gallo Estate, Warrandyte
Let your journey start at Olivigna winery, set in the sprawling hills of Warrandyte at Pietro Gallo Estate. This place celebrates the sweet life and takes you to the Italian countryside in the blink of an eye, with some of the best wines and food you’ll ever try.
Apart from the wines, try their Grappa too – a brandy distilled from the fermented residue of grapes after they’ve been pressed for winemaking.
Helen’s Hill Estate, Yarra Valley
Yarra Valley wineries offer both great wines and entertainment for the whole family. There are plenty of family-friendly wineries in the region, including Helen’s Hill Estate, so you won’t need to find a sitter.
Head to the Wine Deck for its kids’ menu, colouring books, treasure hunt maps, sports equipment, high chairs and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many wineries are there in Victoria, Australia?
Victoria has over 800 wineries and 600 cellar doors spread across 21 distinct wine regions.
What wines is Victoria known for?
Shiraz, Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc, plus Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Viognier, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo and other varieties adopted since the late 1990s.
Are there family-friendly wineries in Victoria?
Yes. The Yarra Valley has many, including Helen’s Hill Estate, whose Wine Deck offers a kids’ menu, colouring books, treasure hunt maps and high chairs.
Why does Victoria rank third in wine production?
Despite having the most producers, Victoria lacks large bulk-wine areas like the Riverina in New South Wales or the Riverland in South Australia.
Conclusion
There are plenty of good reasons to put Victoria at the top of your list when planning your next trip, especially if you’re a huge wine lover. Whichever region you choose, pick wisely and you’ll explore Victoria, Australia – your next wine destination – in the best possible way.
