For wineries just a short drive from either Canberra or Sydney, the
Canberra District Wine Region is a great day trip from either city. With over 30 wineries calling this district home, heading on a winery tour can be one of the best ways to spend a weekend. Take a trip to improve your wine knowledge, or just to sample the wines and produce to come out of this unique region.
Even if you've sampled some of Australia's finest wines, you haven't done it all until you've visited the Canberra region. The cooler climate means that not only is this a spot for different grapes to flourish, but even interstate favourites will develop a different flavour due to the climate. It helps make the region unique, as most Australian wines are grown in a warm climate. You'll find wines uncommon around Australia, like Tempranillo, that thrive in the area.
If you're heading out on your own, then the best thing to do is download a copy of the
map brochure, or pick one up at your first winery. It will not only help you track them down, but will give you an idea of what to expect at each. The experience differs from winery to winery. Check out
Poachers Pantry where you'll get to try their selection of smoked meats along with your wines, or
Lerida Estate, whose cellar door was designed by one of Australia's top architects. There are definitely
plenty of others to check out.
If you'd rather put the driving in someone else's hands, then there are also wine tours operating in the region. As well as hosting tours throughout the nation's capital,
Canberra Guided Tours offer full day tours that visit cellar doors and restaurants, and can be tailored for groups, couples, or individuals.
Wine Wisdom also operate wine tours of the Canberra District Wine Region, and Karen, your guide, has plenty of wine knowledge up her sleeve.
However you choose to visit, a wine region tour should definitely be on the cards. Pick up some local produce to enjoy a picnic at one of the picturesque wineries, or dine at one of the restaurants or cafes in the region. Take a day, or a weekend, and explore the Canberra District Wine Region.
