The Grampians is one of Australia’s most historical and acclaimed wine regions. Wineries such as Seppelt and Best’s Wines Great Western have been operating in the region since the 1800s, with some of the oldest vines in Australia.
Over the years, the region has produced a range of outstanding wines, including sparkling whites and sweet rosé. But at its heart the Grampians is famous for its elegant, spicy cool-climate Shiraz. Treasured for delicious notes of deep dark fruits, pepper, and smoke, Grampians Shiraz is a memorable flavour perfect for indulging this cold season.
Just a two-hour road trip west of Melbourne, the region is a haven waiting to be explored by red-wine lovers. To guide your tastings, here are a few of our favourite wineries producing quality Grampians’ style Shiraz.
Best’s is one of Australia’s oldest continually family-owned and operated wineries, with some of the oldest vines in the country. Make a stop in Great Western to visit the Stables Cellar Door for a tasting of their signature reds, including Bin No. 1. The classic and aromatic Shiraz was crafted in a floral style, while also staying true to classic notes of spice. It’s the perfect bottle to crack open after a day of exploring with roasted lamb and seasoned vegetables.
Seppelt is renowned for being a pioneer of Australia’s unique wine style, particularly its sparkling Shiraz. Located in Great Western, the heritage listed cellar dates back to 1868 and is a must-visit on your road trip. Take the time to explore their cellars, the longest in the southern hemisphere, a true showcase of Australia’s fascinating wine history.
The signature Show Sparkling Shiraz has flavours of plum and savoury spice, perfectly complemented with chocolate and earthy characters to create a smooth drinking wine for an evening by the fireplace.
Grampians Estate in Great Western was established in the late 1870s and features Shiraz vines that are among some of the oldest in Victoria. Settle in at the cellar door for a relaxing tasting experience and the opportunity to enjoy the region’s iconic wine, including the Rutherford Sparkling Shiraz. Featuring flavours of fresh raspberries balanced with the subtle sweetness of chocolate, this is a medium-bodied wine that engages all the senses.
ATR Wines is a unique winery that is known for crafting cutting-edge wine blends using alternate varieties. Winemaker Adam Richardson has been making Shiraz since the mid-90s and has a love for the cool-climate type. The perfect testament to this is his beautifully balanced Chockstone Shiraz. With notes like blackberries, dark chocolate, violets, bacon fat and liquorice, this is one to treat the palate.
Situated between Ararat and Halls Gap, the town of Moyston is home to Clayfield Wines. This beautiful boutique winery and cellar door specialises in 100% estate-grown and award-winning Shiraz. Winemaker Simon Clayfield emphasises his love for elegant and balanced wines in this limited range of full-bodied Shiraz. Stop by on your road trip to sip and savour the true flavours of the Grampians wine region.
Miners Ridge is nestled on a ridge in the foothills of Western Victoria’s Grampians region. It combines modern harvesting and winemaking techniques with some traditional methods, including hand harvesting and open fermenting.
Reserve a wine tasting of their medium bodied Shiraz and a gourmet tasting platter, before heading out on a ‘Walk and Talk’ in the vineyard with owner and operator Andrew. We can guarantee you’ll leave with a bottle of their premium Shiraz in hand ready to cellar and relish in years to come.
At the south-eastern end of the Grampians wine region, situated at the base of Mount Cole, Mountainside is a family-run winery worth a visit on your Shiraz journey. They produce premium wines from hand-tended wines and hand-picked grapes.
Their Shiraz is rich and full-flavoured, featuring notes of berry and pepper with a dry finish. The variation in warm and cool days in the region is key to achieving depth of flavour and a strong integration of aromas.
Established in 2017, Pomonal Estate is a family-run, boutique winery. Owned by Adam and Pep Atchison, the winery offers both beautiful wines, ciders and beers. However, they are best known for their Shiraz, with lovely spice and pepper, vibrant blueberries with a touch of sweet plum.
Linger a little longer to enjoy dishes and platters that champion local producers and growers.
