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HoLIDAY EXCHANGE
expectations
grapE
CREATE YOUR OWN VICTORIAN WINE ExPERIENCE
The wine regions of Victoria are diverse enough to cater for almost any taste. You only have to take a drive cross- country to discover that each area boasts something completely unique
– whether it’s stopping to chat to the
Mornington peninsula
locals, experiencing breathtaking coastal views, the alpine peaks or living the cosmopolitan life in Melbourne.
However, what most people remember most fondly when they think of Victoria, are the world-class wineries and the top-
quality wines. With over 850 wineries, 650 cellar doors and 21 very unique and distinct wine regions, whether you’re
a fan of the full-bodied reds or prefer
a cool and crisp white, you’ll find your perfect poison here.
The Mornington Peninsula lies south of Melbourne and is sandwiched between Port Phillip to the west and the Western Port to the east. The area is dotted with small coastal towns on the western shoreline and is well known for its agriculture and the stunning Mornington Peninsula National Park. Many compare the landscape here to that of the Mediterranean, which should give you a good idea of how temperate and charming the area is.
‘The Peninsula’, as Melbourne locals know it, is easy to navigate from a wine lover’s perspective. Around 50 wineries neighbour each other, so you’re never far from your next tasting. Experiencing the wines of the Peninsula can take a few days, so you can certainly make a long weekend out of the variety of cellar doors on offer.
There are several very distinct micro-climates around the Peninsula, so the variety of wines on offer is sure to suit a wide range of palettes, making this the perfect place to visit with a group of friends.
look out For:
Ten Minutes By Tractor’s Pinot Noir
stay at:
Nepean Country Club (1169)
BEst availaBility:
Mar 11 – Jun 12
Macedon ranges
Heading inland, north of Melbourne, you’ll find yourself amongst rolling hills, flowing rivers and tree-clad valleys. Think rural farmland and small towns that buzz with a surprising amount of energy and creativity. If you like to experience the charm and laidback pace of small-town liv- ing, then the Macedon Ranges are perfect.
In less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne you can be in the midst of the Macedon Ranges.The consistent rainfall here makes the soil extremely fertile, which led the area
to become a well-known wine region. It has the coolest grape-growing climate of any wine region on the mainland and the “Macedon Sparkling” (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes) is becoming an extremely well known blend, at- tracting crowds purely seeking that varietal alone.
look out For:
Granite Hills’ Riesling
stay at:
Kyneton Bushland Resort (0830)
BEst availaBility:
Mar 11 – Jun 12
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