By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Australia is not only renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife but also for its thriving wine industry. With picturesque vineyards spread across the country, wine tourism has become increasingly popular among locals and international visitors alike.
From the coastal wineries in Western Australia’s Margaret River region to the cheese-and-chocolate supported offerings of the Hunter Valley, there's no shortage of destinations designed to delight wine enthusiasts - with the best vineyard tours in Australia those that offer a unique blend of wine-tasting, epicurean experiences and breathtaking scenery.
Here are our top five picks:
Hunter Valley, NSW:
As Australia's oldest wine region, the Hunter Valley holds a special place in the hearts of wine enthusiasts. Located just a two-hour drive from Sydney, this historic wine region is as renowned for its quaint towns, such as Pokolbin, Broke and Scone, as it is its bold Shiraz, Semillon and Verdelho.
A popular weekend escape for Sydneysiders, vineyard tours in the Hunter Valley offer a glimpse into the region's rich winemaking heritage. Here, visits to iconic estates such as Tyrrell's, Brokenwood and McGuigan Wines, are as popular as invitations to indulge in the area's gourmet experiences - including cheese tastings, chocolate pairings, and fine dining at acclaimed restaurants such as Margan.
Yarra Valley, Vic:
A less-than-60-minute drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is a haven for wine lovers seeking a tranquil escape from the city. Many a visitor has ordered their flat white to go and headed to this cool-climate wine region - renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and sparkling wines for a day trip.
Vineyard tours in the Yarra Valley offer a delightful blend of wine tasting, gourmet dining and outdoor adventures such as hiking and hot air ballooning. Visitors can explore family-owned estates such as Domaine Chandon, De Bortoli and Yering Station, where they can savour award-winning wines against a backdrop of rolling vineyards and verdant valleys.
Margaret River, WA:
Nestled along the rugged Indian Ocean coastline of Western Australia, Margaret River is celebrated for its premium wines and stunning natural beauty - a place where a Mediterranean climate and fertile soils produce some of Australia's most sought-after Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Semillon.
A vineyard tour in Margaret River offers a unique opportunity to explore boutique wineries and indulge in wine tastings, tucked away among rolling hills and pristine beaches, making it unsurprising that many visitors will feel transported to the Italian Riviera with a visit here.
Barossa Valley, SA:
The list of Australian vineyard tours would be incomplete without mention of the Barossa Valley. Located just an hour's drive from the City of Churches, this world-renowned wine region is home to some of the country's most heavenly wineries.
Visitors can embark on guided tours of iconic estates such as Penfolds, Seppeltsfield and Jacob's Creek, where they can sample a diverse range of wines, from bold Shiraz to elegant Riesling. Additionally, the Barossa Valley boasts a thriving food scene, with gourmet restaurants and farmers' markets showcasing the region's finest produce.
Tasmania:
Tasmania may be Australia's smallest state, but it packs a punch when it comes to wine tourism. The island's cool climate and pristine wilderness provide the perfect conditions for producing premium wines, particularly Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and sparkling wines.
Vineyard tours in Tasmania offer a chance to explore boutique wineries nestled among rolling hills, coastal cliffs and lush forests. Visitors can sample award-winning wines at cellar doors such as Josef Chromy, Moorilla Estate and Freycinet Vineyard, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Tasmanian landscape.
