Within easy reach of Melbourne are smaller boutique wineries such as Mt Anakie, Straughton Vale, Kilgour Estates and the award-winning Pettavel, renowned for their Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gewurztraminer and distinct Chardonnay. The Queenscliff-Sorrento ferry can add another dimension to your tour.
The centre of the great fortified wines and full-bodied reds, Rutherglen and surrounds provide a friendly warm atmosphere to sample the best Tokays and Muscats found in Victoria, as well as an excellent range of table wines. Close proximity to golfing, pokies and country club facilities, complemented by a temperate climate. Some of the winery highlights include Morris, Mt Prior, All Saints, Gehrigs and Stanton & Killeen. A delight!
Birthed in the gold rush of the late 1800's, the valley and surrounds offer tasting experiences from one of Australia's oldest wineries, Chateau Tahbilk, to the modern Mitchelton, with the opportunity to enjoy a scenic cruise from one to the other. Longleat and Tisdall are other well-known producers of great table wines. This area has received awards for its delicious Marsanne, Verdello, Chardonnay and Cabernet, while the Bendigo region is enjoyed for its Chardonnay.