COOL CLIMATE DROPS

Our region is home to many wonderful viticulturists, vignerons, brewers, distillers and fermenters, producing some of Australia’s top wines, beers, ciders and liqueurs.

The first local vineyards were planted way back in the 1840s and we’ve been producing wines of distinction ever since. Our cool to cold climate results in the production of small quantities of exceptionally high quality wines. With vineyards at 400 and up to 700 metres above sea level, grapes have an intense natural lively acidity that is balanced against delicate fruit characters and soft tannins.

The region boasts over 50 wineries, mostly owner operated. Chances are it will be the winemaker pouring your tasting at the cellar door. They’re all good for a yarn and a bit of insight into their product. Many cellar doors also offer delicious local produce platters, pizzas and more, inviting you to linger awhile………

Shiraz is the signature variety produced in the Sunbury region but perfect also for great Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. Located just 30 minutes from the city and 10 minutes from the airport, it’s the closest wine growing region to Melbourne’s CBD and a convenient stopover on your journey into or out of Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges.

Across the Macedon Ranges a range of volcanic and fertile soils offer diversity in the style of wines produced. Here some of Australia’s finest wine makers produce award winning Sparkling Wines (Macedon), Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer and Riesling as well as the traditional Bordeaux varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and peppery cold climate Shiraz. Recent plantings of Nebbiolo, Lagrein, Pinot Gris and Prosecco reflect the Swiss-Italian heritage.

Around Daylesford, Creswick and Clunes the climate and terrain change. Providing a perfect match with local produce, passionate wine makers produce subtly fragrant Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, sparkling wine, Riesling and some Shiraz.

Pick up a copy of the Daylesford & Macedon Ranges Wine Touring Guide from a local Visitor Information Centre to plot your own exploration. Or, make it really easy and ensure that you can enjoy a tipple or more – book with Mike’s Wine Tours, Wine Touring Victoria or Daylesford Wine Tours. Just kick back and enjoy!

If it’s a great beer you’re after, the pioneering Holgate Brewhouse in Woodend produces 19 boutique beers from pale ales, draughts and bitters. Alternatively, enjoy locally crafted beers at Tooborac Hotel and Brewery or look out for the Daylesford Dolphin brewery brand at farmer’s markets.

Our orchardist history has enabled the region to respond to the growing trend and demand for hand-crafted ciders. A visit is a must to the Daylesford Cidery where a massive dedication to quality has seen the establishment of over 1500 organic apple trees bearing heirloom varieties of Somerset cider apples. In the traditional apple-growing centre of Bacchus Marsh, Bacchus Hill Winery also offers excellent local ciders.

A unique offer in the region is the exquisitely bottled range of liqueurs at Herbal Lore, Daylesford, created using principles that blend the craft of cooperage with the art of winemaking. Development of the region’s first single malt is also well under way here.

This area is home to 85% of Australia’s naturally occurring mineral springs. Crystal clear mineral water flows from springs located in reserves. Bring a container to fill and take home with you. You’ll also find bottled, locally sourced mineral water on many café and restaurant tables. Daylesford and Hepburn Mineral Springs Company also produce delicious fruit flavoured waters.

Wherever you travel throughout our region – you’ll be sure to discover your own perfect drop.