King Valley
HAVEN OF FOOD AND WINE ROYALTY
In Victoria’s High Country, the King Valley is a dynamic destination where historic winemaking families and a strong Italian culture have made food and wine a way of life.
The King Valley wine region is one of Australia’s most scenic and diverse. Vineyards and wineries along the region’s slopes produce everything from sparkling to fortified wine. With its strong Italian heritage, it’s also Australia’s home of Prosecco, Sangiovese and other Italian varieties.
About three hours from Melbourne, the King Valley shines all year round. Discover cellar doors, restaurants and outdoor activities and journey to nearby national parks and ski fields. It’s a breath of fresh air for premium Australian wine.
36° 70’S
latitude
146° 24’E
longitude
1,535HA
total vineyard area
Climate and Altitude
The King Valley is one of Australia’s highest-altitude grape-growing regions. Its continental climate varies from the cold upper slopes to the slightly warmer valley floors, creating a diversity of wine styles.
460MM
growing season rainfall
21.3C
mean temperature
214M
altitude
The Environment
The King Valley wine region is in north-east Victoria at the foothills of the Alpine National Park. Following the King River, it’s a diverse landscape surrounded by mountains and rolling vineyards.
Climate
Summer has warm days and cool nights, with breezes sweeping down the valley from the high country. Winter can be bracingly cold, particularly in the higher-altitude areas which also get more rain.
Soil
The soil is mostly a deep red clay loam but its colour varies throughout the valley.
The Makers
Top Varieties Grown
PROSECCO
The King Valley was the first Australian region to make premium prosecco and it’s become the region’s sparkling specialty. It’s a fresh and lively sparkling wine that pairs perfectly with antipasto and seafood.
PINOT GRIGIO
These vibrant, food-friendly wines range from the refreshing Pinot Grigio style to the richer and more full-flavoured Pinot Gris.
SANGIOVESE
This Italian variety thrives here, producing an elegant red wine that’s perfect with tomato-based pastas. It’s leading the way for a wide range of Mediterranean varieties.
