Three regions in one
‘Diverse’ is the best way to describe Victoria’s vast Gippsland wine region, stretching across the south-eastern part of the state and encompassing a variety of landscapes and climates. It means that visitors are spoilt for choice and it’s best to plan ahead. It also means you can discover a thrilling variety of wine styles, from elegant and aromatic whites to bold, full-flavoured reds.
Gippsland is really like three regions in one. East Gippsland offers coastal vistas and seaside holiday towns, while West Gippsland – closest to Melbourne at around one hour’s drive – has historic villages and lush natural beauty. South Gippsland is the coolest area, home to rolling green hills, roaming cows and cheesemakers, with brisk winds coming off the Bass Strait.
As you tour the fertile countryside, exploring national parks, lakes and pristine beaches, you’ll encounter small country towns and passionate boutique producers. Food and wine trails showcase locally crafted wine, boutique beer and an abundance of produce, from beef and seafood to vegetables and dairy.
Scattered across the region are over 100 vineyards and more than 50 wineries, mostly family-run. The diverse winemaking community includes established wineries crafting classic wines and a new generation of bold makers exploring innovative and ancient techniques to create something different.
Cool-climate wines bursting with flavour
Wine was made in the Gippsland wine region as early as the 1800s, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that the modern, commercial wine scene got started. Since then, producers have quickly built a reputation for their high-quality, cool-climate wines.
The region gets its cool climate from the snowfields in the north and ocean that hugs the south east. The diverse landscape makes it hard to describe a typical Gippsland wine. But generally you can expect great quality and vibrant varietal flavours.
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the region’s stars. Most vineyards grow Pinot Noir, and winemakers craft elegant wines ranging from subtle yet gently complex in flavour to richer and darker styles. You’ll also find excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot (the two are often blended), Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling, plus a growing range of stylish sparkling wines.
For some of Australia’s best Pinot Noir, look to Bass Phillip, an award-winning producer in South Gippsland. Established in 1979, Bass Phillip’s biodynamic vineyards produce outstanding and age-worthy Pinot. Bellvale Wine is another South Gippsland winery creating prize-winning Pinot Noir, plus Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. It’s run by American-Australian John Ellis, an ex-jet pilot who spent a long time hunting for the perfect place to plant a vineyard before deciding on this cool, misty location.
There are many other noteworthy producers in the region, including Bass River Winery in South Gippsland; Blue Gables, Narkoojee and Tambo Estate in East Gippsland; and Cannibal Creek in West Gippsland.
The Gippsland wine region has many personalities, and it’s home to a diverse community of passionate producers taking advantage of their unspoilt surrounds. Despite its vastness, premium wines can be found in every corner of this exciting region.
