Grab your friends in wine—the Bungendore Wine Trail is here to tour your tastebuds around the region
Posted on
Want to introduce your palate to the cool-climate wines of the Bungendore region? The Queanbeyan-Palerang Treasure Trail is here to help!
Helping you plan the ultimate trip to the historic region of Bungendore for the perfect rural (and Riesling-focused) escape, the Bungendore Wine Trail will tour your tastebuds to four wineries (all of which are a quick 30-minute drive from Canberra), introduce you to some hidden gems, and take all of the stress of out planning—so you can actually linger a little longer in each spot to smell the rosé. Did we mention they all have food too?
The first stop? Norton Road Wines.
Credit: Norton Road Wines.
Located just 15 minutes from the Canberra Airport in stunning Wamboin, at this family-owned vineyard that is known for growing and making small-batch cool climate wines, you’ll discover delicious drops that reflect the terroir of the region. Specialising in Pinot Noir and Riesling, they are also expanding with new planting of French varieties (think Merlot and Gamay).
Overlooking the rural bush setting and five acres of vineyards, sipping on Norton Road Wines while enjoying delicious, slow-cooked BBQ from Biggie’s Barbecue (think: deep-fried oysters, sticky bourbon BBQ pork ribs and 12-hour smoked brisket…yum) is a great way to spend a Saturday or Sunday.
Lark Hill Winery is next on the list—and if you’ve never been before, you’re in for a treat.
Credit: Visit Queanbeyan-Palerang.
Established in 1978 by Sue and Dave Carpenter, at this winery, you can sip away on organic, biodynamic, and sustainable wines. Offering premium single-vineyard wines from the Estate owned vineyards in both Bungendore and Murrumbateman as well as a range of regional blends, head along to the Cellar Door for a tasting flight featuring a selection of wines by the glass or book into lunch with their on-site restaurant partner—Agostinis—where you can dine overlooking the vines.
With dishes like calamari fritti, prosciutto e rucola pizza and tiramisu on offer, who needs to go to Tuscany?
If you’re heading to the Bungendore region, a stop at the contemporary estate of Contentious Character is highly recommended by the Bungendore Wine Trail. This winery, cellar door, and restaurant is also tucked away in the hills of Wamboin and has an extensive range of wine offerings—from their Founders Museum Collection to more modern offerings.
Credit: Destination NSW.
Make a day of it and book into the restaurant for some seasonal, locally-sourced food inspired by Japanese and Australian cuisine, all created to pair perfectly with their varieties—including Riesling Pinot Gris, Verdelho, and more—and stunning country views.
If you’re looking to taste some award-winning wines, Sapling Yard Wines Cellar Door only uses the finest quality fruit from premium vineyards in Murrumbateman, Lake George, Hilltops, and the Tumbarumba region.
Credit: Sapling Yard.
From Riesling to Rose, Pinots, Shiraz, and more booking into the Cellar Door in Bungendore promises an elegant and flavoursome tasting experience like no other. Add a cheese and charcuterie platter for two because, wine-not?
Feature image: Contentious Character, Destination NSW.
