There are several wine districts within an easy drive from the centre of Sydney, making a day trip to some of Australia’s most beautiful regional areas a must-do for wine lovers. The Hunter Valley, Blue Mountains or Hawkesbury River regions contain picturesque, historic and gourmet treats-a-plenty for those who like to venture beyond the city.
Tyrells Wines
A bottle of Tyrells in the Hunter Valley is never far from the top of my list when it comes to Australian wines and their Hunter Valley cellar winery is a must in order to discover their 150 years of winemaking experience take a tour of the old oak vats and historic red cellar that is still in full operation.
McGuigan Wines
McGuigan Cellars, the home of McGuigan Wines is in the heart of the Hunter Valley, just two hours’ drive from Sydney. The added bonus of visiting McGuigan Cellars is the Hunter Valley Cheese Company. Here you will be able to enjoy the full wine and cheese experience.
Dryridge Estate
The Blue Mountains district, a few hours west of Sydney, is a must do day trip. In particular, for the Dryridge Estate boutique winery where you’ll be able to sample wines that are the premier choice of local restaurants and gourmet stores.
Bunnamagoo Vineyard
Settled in 1829 the Bunnamagoo Vineyard is nestled in rolling hills overlooking an historic homestead, producing wines made in small, handpicked batches from their own vines. This Blue Mountains location is a beautiful addition to any day trip from Sydney.
Vicary’s Winery
Steeped in local history, Vicary’s Winery traces its roots back to the arrival of the First Fleet. Many original farm buildings remain in use and at under two hours’ drive from Sydney, make this a must do destination for fans of local wines and their history.
Tizzana Vineyards
The Hawksbury region, just one hour drive north of Sydney is abundant in beauty and historic interest and with wine added to the mix, makes a great day trip. Tizzana Vineyards hits all the right notes in this regard. You’ll find not only locally produced wines but olives, gourmet produce and heritage listed buildings.
Razorback Ridge Wines
The Macarthur area in the Hawksbury region is known as the birthplace of the Australian wine industry, named after John and Elizabeth Macarthur, who were pioneers and founders of our wine industry. It is in this area some 180 years later that the vineyards at Razorback Ridge Wines produce wines from hand pruned and handpicked grapes on the property.
If, like me, good quality local wines and produce are at the top of your shopping list, take my advice and experience some the best Australia has to offer by planning a day to get out of Sydney and see what we’ve got to offer.
(Feature image: ‘Grapes in the Hunter Valley, NSW’ by Image Library available at beyondcoalandgas under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.0.
