Australia’s wine regions are among the most beautiful in the world. They offer great wine, delicious food, breathtaking sceneries, and a rich history. Here are some of the best wine regions for either romantic weekends or family getaways. We have also nominated a best tour operator winner for each of the regions.
Yarra Valley
Just outside Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is home to more than 300 vineyards and over 150 wineries, among which the most famous are Fergusson, DeBortoli, as well as Yering Station, the vineyard where Victoria’s wine industry was established in the 1930s. The Yarra Valley winemakers are known for their revolutionary winemaking techniques. They produce the best Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz.
If you decide to take a trip to the Yarra Valley, make sure to taste the best wines, food and enjoy the art at the TarraWarra Estate. You can also try Domaine Chandon for the best sparkling samples. For romantic dates & elegant dinners, you may wish to visit the Eleonore’s.
Best Tour Operator Award: Café Bus
Tamar Valley
Tamar Valley is known for its sparkling wines, Pinot Noir, and delicious Chardonnay. With the Tamar River running through the valley, the region is perfect for enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are over thirty wineries in different styles, from sophisticated to rustic, which offer delicious food and great wines. If you want to experience wine tasting, you should make an appointment in advance because it can get busy in peak times.
Best Tour Operator Award: Valley Brook
Margaret River
Only 50 years old, Margaret River is one of the newest wine regions in Australia and has quickly become one of the most popular and respected regions. It’s also one of the biggest wine regions and includes amazing coastline and hilly scenery. The region is home to over 200 boutique wineries and produces 20% of the country’s premium wines.
Best Tour Operator Award: Margaret River Tours
Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is best known for its beautiful coastal views (especially the rocky formation of the Twelve Apostles). It is also well know for its popular wineries, restaurants, and breweries. Taste the most delicious pinot noirs at the Blake’s Estate and visit the Brown Magpie which grows, manufactures, and bottles amazing wine.
Best Tour Operator Award: Vinetrekker Wine and Food Tours
Riverina
One in every 4 glasses of wine in the country is produced in the Riverina region. Some of the largest wine producers are family-owned wineries such as McWilliams Wines and Casella Wines. This fertile wine region is the home to a great number of restaurants and farms known for their fresh and tasty produce. In addition, the Riverina is a great place for watersports and fishing which makes it perfect for active weekend getaways.
Best Tour Operator Award: Courabyra Wines
Rutherglen
The Murray River and the Victorian Alps make Rutherglen one of the most beautiful regions in the country. The wineries are mostly family-owned and a boutique-style, which gives the region a homely and relaxed atmosphere. Besides stunning scenery, Rutherglen also offers biking tracks and a great number of restaurants with delicious food. Make sure to visit the Chambers Rosewood Winery which has been operated by the Chambers family for six generations.
Best Tour Operator Award: Rutherglen Wine Experience and Information Centre
Barossa Valley
Established by German settlers in the 1840s, Barossa Valley is famous for its wine and food all around the world. It is home to one of the oldest vineyards in the world, Langmail Freedom, which was established in 1843 and is still functional today. Barossa Valley is home to 150 wineries and 80 cellar doors. It is best known for its Chardonnay, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Eden Valley Riesling.
For the best experience, visit Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop to attend a cooking demonstration, have a light lunch made with local produce, or get a signed copy of her cookbooks.
Best Tour Operator Award: Barossa Wine Tours
Make sure you allow a few days to visit the Margaret River Region if you’re in Western Australia. It has some of the countries best wineries, and the weather is great all year round. We booked a private winery tour with Jye from The Margaret River Experience which was incredible! It included a stop-off at 4 wineries and a scrumptious lunch at Vasse Felix.