Canberra district wineries to visit this autumn
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There’s nothing like a glass of red on a crisp autumn day – and with more than 40 wineries right on our doorstep, why not spend a weekend sipping on some of the best?
Perfect for taking a long lunch while overlooking some stunning seasonal scenery, here are some local wineries to try so you can sample your way around the cool climate district.
Shaw Estate (Murrumbateman)
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Just 30 minutes from the Canberra CBD, Shaw Estate is home to many award-winning cool-climate wines and recently opened their new restaurant Shaw Estate. During a tasting, you’ll be guided by experts as you try everything from Prosecco to Pinot Noir. Grab yourself something small to nibble or book in for a long lunch inspired by the Mediterranean.
34 Isabel Drive, Murrumbateman | Open for tastings Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm | shawestate.com.au
Mount Majura Vineyard (Majura)
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Established in 1988, this vineyard is situated within the ACT border and has become known for its Tempranillo – its flagship wine – and Riesling.
Open seven days a week from 10 am until 5 pm, the cellar door is small (there’s no restaurant and they cannot accommodate groups larger than 10) but a seated tasting with a small produce platter is all you need to appreciate the unique flavours of the vineyard.
88 Lime Kiln Road, Majura | Open Monday to Sunday for tastings, 10 am – 5 pm | mountmajura.com.au
Heywood Nick O’Leary Cellar Door (Wallaroo)
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Served in restaurants nationwide, Nick O’Leary’s wine is award-winning, and his cellar door restaurant is equally impressive. Since its inception, O’Leary’s focus has been on hand-worked Shiraz and Riesling wines, both of which pair perfectly with their restaurant menu.
And with vast views of the Brindabellas outside and a roaring log fire inside (in case the weather turns), it’s very easy to spend a day here.
149 Brooklands Road Wallaroo | Open for lunch Thursday to Sunday and tastings between 10 am – 5 pm (bookings essential) | nickolearywines.com.au
Brindabella Hills Winery (Wallaroo)
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With stunning views of the Brindabellas and rolling hills overlooking the iconic Murrumbidgee River, this is one of the most picturesque spots to relax with a glass of wine.
Established in 1986 as an experiment in an area where vines had not previously been planted, Brindabella Hills Winery is known for hosting amazing wine-tasting experiences and leisurely two or three-course lunches – and during autumn, the vineyard puts on a spectacular show.
156 Woodgrove Close, Wallaroo | Open for tastings and lunch Saturday and Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm | brindabellahills.com.au
Poachers Pantry (Springrange)
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A pioneer, putting the Canberra region on the map for its tremendous food and wine, Poachers Vineyard is renowned for its soft, peppery Shiraz and elegant aromatic white varieties. And if it’s a long lunch you’re after, this is the place to book.
Using seasonal ingredients on their menu, everything is matched to the wines that are grown on the rolling hills that surround the restaurant, cellar door and farm shop. Sip and savour away.
431 Nanima Road, Springrange | Open for tastings and 10.30 am – 5 pm Monday to Sunday | poacherspantry.com.au
Feature image: Darcy Oliver.
