Destination of the Week

Australia - North Wine Country

There’s a lesser-known new wine region in Australia . . . it’s Nagambie lakes and, in this case, “new” is over 150 years old.

While this is called the northern region, it’s actually not far from Melbourne.  The countryside is as rustic as any wine country, with views of the Goulburn River and Lake Nagambie.  The region’s start was as a mining region. 

The lake and river, along with the red soil contribute to the creation of s special, recognized sub region which offer ideal growing conditions for Rhone and for Australia’s “original”, Shiraz.  The elements also contribute to some terrific Viognier, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and even Verdelho.

It’s a pretty varied list – much like the activities of the region.

If you arrive from Sydney or Melbourne, you’ll realize the obvious changes in the countryside and the pace.  While neither of those cities have the tension of some big cities, there’s still a marked relaxation in lifestyle and immense sense of enjoying the world.  And the ways . . . there’s the water.  The lake and the river have swimming, canoeing, rowing, and skiing and jet skiing.  In fact Lake Nagambie hosts some of the largest rowing championships in the country.  You can also book a river cruise including a wine tasting, if you like. 

Besides the lake and river, there are plenty of land diversions.  Avenel Maze lets you make your way through monstrous labyrinths.  There’s also a large open-cut mine for touring, even offering a chance to pan for gold.  Of course, plenty of golf courses dot the countryside.  If you’re there in October, you can attend the Great Australian Shiraz Challenge.  November brings the Jazz and Wine Festival.  In March, it’s the World’s Longest Lunch – and you thought that would be in Spain.  Then, in May, the wineries hold their annual “after vintage” celebrations with plenty of music and food.

Any time of the year, you can visit the six-arch stone bridge that crosses Hughes Creek.  It was built in 1859 as an improvement serving the gold rush traffic and the mail service. 

Finally, if you get tired of staying on the ground, you can take to the air with gliders, a hot air balloon or parachute jumping.

The easiest way to travel is by rental car.  It gives you the opportunity to determine your own itinerary and visit some out-of-the-way wineries and attractions.  If you prefer, there are organized tours which will hit the most popular points.

It’s not the same Australia as farther south but certainly just as enjoyable . . . and you’ll definitely love the wines.

You can find more information about Lake Nagambie here and more from The Wine Experience on Australia travel here.

Want to book a trip? Start here.

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