She may be small, but she is mighty, when it comes to wine, that is. The ACT wine region, which also spreads into regional NSW, is home to over 40 wineries, many within an hour’s drive of Canberra, and the cool climate yields some fantastic surprises in the glass. Words by Danielle Norton.
Encircled by the rocky hills of the Brindabellas, the winery is planted in the perfect environment to grow excellent table wines. Try the Chardonnay or the Shiraz, both have won national trophies. The cafe has delicious tasting plates and refined meals available. 156 Woodgrove Cl, Hall brindabellahills.com.au
This spectacular winery is one of Australia’s best. Using local stone and reclaimed timbers, the Kirk family has built a state-of-the-art cellar door only 30 minutes’ drive from Canberra. You’ll have the chance to taste some of the best Shiraz the region has to offer. 3 Crisps Ln, Murrambateman clonakilla.com.au
Samples of Alex McKay’s wines can be tasted at the beautiful cellar door near the roaring fire. Try a Veltliner, Marsanne, Riesling or Sangiovese for something different. The Shiraz and Chardonnay are award winners, so don’t miss them. 7 Murray St, Collector collectorwines.com.au
With a diverse range of cool-climate wines available, sourced by Nick Spencer from vineyards in Gundagai and Tumbarumba, a tasting at Eden Road Wines is a special experience, from the tree-lined arrival to the refined glassware in the tasting room. Try the Nebbiolo and Long Road Pinot Gris. 3182 Barton Hwy, Murrumbateman edenroadwines.com.au
One of the first commercial wineries in the ACT wine region, Helm’s cellar door is accommodated in the National Trust listed Toual Public Schoolhouse. It’s a small space with the capacity to impart a great deal of knowledge about wine. The rieslings are the benchmark wines of this vineyard and there are many for you to try. 19 Butts Rd, Murrumbateman helmwines.com.au
Lark Hill specialises in organic, biodynamic wine production.The wine bar and cafe is open for weekend lunches. Guests can indulge in a tasting that allows comparisons between old and new vintages of the same wine. Sample the chardonnay, pinot noir,and riesling varieties. Cnr Joe Rocks & Bungendore Rd, Bungendore larkhill.wine
Make sure you try the famous tempranillo at the cellar door of this high-altitude winery on the outskirts of Canberra. Enjoy a seated tasting of as many wine varieties as you can handle. Perfect for the novice or connoisseur, this cellar door strives to educate its visitors in all aspects of winemaking. Exceptional cheese and regional tasting plates are available, too. 88 Lime Kiln Rd, Majura mountmajura.com.au
