Wine regions in the centre of Victoria cover a vast area and include Bendigo, Heathcote, the Goulburn Valley and Upper Goulburn. With a mixed terrain consisting of dense forests, mountain ranges and undulating hills, which are punctuated by valley plains and fertile river flats, the range of differing climates and altitudes result in a great diversity of wine. While many varieties are grown in the area, Bendigo and Heathcote produce highly reputed shiraz, as does the Goulburn Valley, which also has the largest plantings of marsanne in the world.
BENDIGO
With a history of wine production since the 1850s, the Bendigo region is best known for its gold-bearing soils. Much like the soil, the red varietals planted produce rich and coveted bottles of shiraz and cabernet sauvignon. The small- and medium-sized vineyards in the region are mostly all family-owned and -operated, with the winemakers often available at the cellar door for an in-depth discussion on all things wine.
GOULBURN VALLEY
The winemaker history of Australia can be found in the Goulburn Valley region of Victoria. With surviving shiraz vines from plantings in 1860, the wineries of the area benefit from the well-drained, ochre-red alluvial terroir and its meso-climate to deliver its renowned, complex varietals. With historic underground cellars and beautiful red gum-lined waterways, the Goulburn Valley region is a must-see for any Australian-wine enthusiast.
UPPER GOULBURN
With many wineries following organic principles, the cool-climate wines produced in the Upper Goulburn region deliver crisp whites and rich reds. Escape the winter chill on your way to the snow at one of the family-owned wineries that surround the towns of Alexandria, Mansfield, and Yea, or take advantage of the dense forests and crystal-clear mountain streams in the summer months.