With a history dating back to 1838, the Yarra Valley wine region in Victoria is acknowledged as one of the oldest wine-producing regions in Australia. Home to more than 70 wineries, the region's cooler climates lends itself favorably to the cultivation of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, though Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Sauvignon Blanc can also be found there.
Nestled in the heart of the valley, the Domaine Chandon Australia (www.greenpointwines.com.au) sits on a spur of land that runs from Yeringberg Hill to the Yarra River. This strip of land is affectionately known as 'Green Point', from which the wines produced in this winery obtains its label.
Established in 1986 by Moët & Chandon, French architectural influences are evident from the 'colonnade' of arches that connect the winery to the Winery and Tasting Center, known as the Green Point Room.
The original homestead on the estate which now houses the winery's offices dates back to 1880. The winery offers guided tours of its wine-making facilities, bottling line, riddling hall, homestead, art and heritage gallery.
The highlight of a trip to Domaine Chandon culminates at the Green Point Room, where you can savor the estate's still and sparkling wines by the glass, with scrumptious regional food to match, while enjoying the spectacular vista of the Yarra Valley right up to the hills of the Great Dividing Range.
At the slightly warmer eastern end of the Yarra Valley, the TarraWarra Estate (www.tarrawarra.com.au) is a huge sprawling winery of 400 hectares. The estate is a reflection of a growing trend of stylish wineries with design-centric architecture. A rammed-earth building next to the impressive TarraWarra Museum of Modern Art houses the winery's WineBar Café and Cellar Door, and features an award-winning design by Alan Powell.
Stroll among rolling greens of vines on the terraced hillsides, with a glass of wine in hand. Or enjoy the picturesque views of Long Gully over fine wine and food from the cool shades of the WineBar Café.
Melbourne play host to several major international wine fairs and trade shows throughout the year. From late October to March, there are also wine and food festivals throughout the region.
If you’re going alone or with a group of friends, plan your itinerary such that it coincides with one of these wine fairs. That way, not only will you be able to taste wines from that wine region, you will likely be able to try those from Australia and other countries as well.
