02 December 2024
11 mins Read
Why dream of Tuscany or Bordeaux when Australia’s Daylesford region offers a collection of world-class wineries? With options ranging from long lunches overlooking picturesque vineyards to tastings and gourmet platters at cosy cellar doors, you’re spoiled for choice.
Use our guide to plan your ultimate wine-tasting adventure through the top wineries in Daylesford and its surrounding regions.
Beyond the village charm, boutique shopping, and indulgent day spas, the Daylesford region holds another gem—its world-class wineries. With lush landscapes fostering some of the finest vineyards, we’ve gathered our favourite spots to sip and savour wines that are as rich in character as the town itself.
The closest cellar door to Daylesford, Passing Clouds is a family-run vineyard crafting exceptional wines since 1974. Open daily, their cellar door offers a personalised tasting experience, showcasing their acclaimed pinot noir and chardonnay, along with limited-edition varietals.
For a memorable lunch, the estate’s restaurant pairs these elegant wines with chef Cameron McKenzie’s locally inspired dishes. Diners can sip and savour as they take in the tranquil vineyard views, making it the prime setting for a relaxed afternoon in the heart of Musk.
Address: 30 Roddas Lane, Musk
Home to some of Daylesford’s best organic wines, Captains Creek Organic Wines provides a relaxed yet refined experience for the discerning wine lover. From sparkling whites to bold chardonnays, their cellar door showcases the essence of sustainable winemaking. Weekend tastings provide the opportunity to discover their range in a tranquil setting.
Complement your visit with a paddock-to-platter feast at their cafe, where farm-fresh produce and local delicacies shine on shared plates. If you like what you taste, don’t forget to take home your favourite wines, ciders, and regional cheeses to continue the experience.
Address: 120 Kangaroo Hills Road, Blampied
Set against a backdrop of vines and leafy green spaces, Attwoods Wines is where cool-climate pinot noir and chardonnay thrive. Just ten minutes from Daylesford, this Glenlyon winery is run by passionate grape growers who craft wines that reflect both the vintage and terroir, welcoming visitors to their award-winning cellar door for tastings.
For a laid-back afternoon, relax with a glass of wine on the deck or savour the set menu at their dining room, Le Bouchon. Before you go, don’t miss out on their signature pinot noirs and sought-after 2019 ‘Le Sanglier’ Nebbiolo.
Address: 260 Green Gully Road, Glenlyon
Set in the scenic Macedon Ranges, Zig Zag Rd Wines celebrates the essence of cool-climate winemaking. Their handpicked estate-grown grapes, cultivated in basalt-rich soils, produce expressive riesling, pinot noir, and syrah that beautifully embody its natural setting. Tastings at their cellar door offer a personal glimpse into their innovative and seasonal offerings.
For a more relaxed visit, indulge in a pre-ordered picnic filled with local artisanal treats. Whether you’re lounging on the shady deck or the lawn, the whole family—including dogs on a lead—is warmly welcomed.
Address: 201 Zig Zag Road, Drummond North
Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Wombat State Forest, Wombat Forest Winery offers a serene escape just 15 minutes from Daylesford. Specialising in premium handcrafted wines, their small-batch approach delivers cool-climate reds with refined flavours, aged to perfection in French oak barrels.
Take part in a tasting session at the cellar door, or savour a glass on the deck with sweeping views of the forest. During winter, snuggle up next to the wood fire and enjoy a delicious seasonal platter.
Address: 189 Springhill Road, Denver
Known for its historic charm and country-style allure, Kyneton is a go-to destination for those seeking a peaceful escape. Its wineries and top-notch eateries, however, are the hidden gems that truly set it apart. Let us introduce you to some of their finest.
Blending the feel of an urban winery with the charm of a neighbourhood wine bar, Musk Lane Wine provides a laid-back atmosphere in historic Kyneton. Brendan Lane’s small-batch, lo-fi wines are a testament to his passion for crafting authentic, soulful vintages that truly embody Central Victoria.
Pop into the cellar door for a relaxed tasting or unwind in the beer garden with friends over a bottle. On special occasions, a food truck joins the scene, enhancing the casual vibe of this dog-friendly venue where everyone feels at home.
Address: 1 Turner’s Lane, Kyneton
Perched among the rolling hills of the Macedon Ranges, Kyneton Ridge Estate invites visitors to experience its blend of small-batch winemaking, art, and local flavours. A seated wine tasting offers a glimpse into the estate’s unique approach, with flights featuring six carefully crafted wines that reflect the season and sustainability practices.
After your tasting, stay for a meal at The Ridge Cafe, where co-owner Angela Wood serves modern Australian dishes with Mediterranean flair. Be sure to explore the Kyneton Ridge Artspace, which showcases rotating exhibitions from emerging and established artists.
Address: 517 Blackhill Road, Kyneton
Within the illustrious Lancemore Estate, Cleveland Estate boasts the region’s only underground cellar door, providing a truly distinctive wine-tasting experience. Surrounded by the luxury accommodations and expansive beauty of the estate, visitors can enjoy an impressive selection of local wines, including their very own vintages.
Once you’ve discovered the underground treasures, savour wood-fired pizzas or a gourmet meal at the onsite restaurant, Carriage House Restaurant, set against the backdrop of the estate’s tranquil vineyards.
Address: 55 Shannons Road, Lancefield
Amid the breathtaking landscapes of the Macedon Ranges, Curly Flat Vineyard has been producing top-tier wines since 1989. Under Jenifer Kolkka’s leadership, the estate is celebrated for its refined pinot noir and chardonnay, wines that consistently impress with their complexity and balance.
Visitors are treated to a complimentary tasting of the latest releases, each sip accompanied by engaging stories from the vineyard’s history. With its pet-friendly atmosphere, it’s a haven for wine enthusiasts and dog lovers alike.
Address: 263 Collivers Road, Lancefield
At Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard, the focus is on letting the land speak through each bottle. The laid-back cellar door offers a warm and inviting setting for visitors to taste superb wines, accompanied by a bit of friendly banter.
Complement your wine with a charcuterie platter filled with locally sourced goodies, or elevate your experience with a sparkling wine workshop. Guided by Brian Martin, this interactive session reveals the art of sparkling wine production and gives you the chance to create your own bottle to enjoy at home.
Address: 362 Pipers Creek-Pastoria Road, Pipers Creek
Venturing a little further afield, the Macedon Ranges region is home to some of Victoria’s most notable wineries. Whether you opt for a wine tour or enlist a designated driver, get ready to indulge in the exquisite flavours of this celebrated wine region.
Driven by a love for the land, Lyons Will Estate offers a boutique wine experience in the heart of the Macedon Ranges. Every bottle reflects the vineyard’s commitment to sustainability, with winemakers Ollie Rapson and Renata Morello following a hands-off approach that lets the grapes’ natural qualities take centre stage.
Open every weekend, the cellar door offers seated tastings where visitors can sample estate-grown wines and enjoy local produce platters. Keep an eye out for their pop-up events throughout the year.
Address: 60 Whalans Track, Lancefield
Hanging Rock Winery, nestled in the Macedon Ranges, combines award-winning wines with incredible natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy complimentary tastings of their signature wines, including the Macedon NV Brut Cuvee and Heathcote Shiraz, guided by passionate staff who bring the wine’s story to life.
Sit back with a local produce platter, filled with cheeses and estate-grown beef, while admiring the view. Don’t miss their annual Art in the Vines sculpture exhibition, adding a creative touch to this already unforgettable winery.
Address: 88 Jim Road, Newham
Set off on the forest trail to discover Mount Macedon Winery, a mountainside retreat that artfully combines the rustic charm of the Australian countryside with sleek, contemporary design. From tastings at the cellar door to meals at UUMM restaurant, the focus is always on artisanal wines and fresh, local ingredients, offering a sophisticated and sensory experience.
Elevate your visit with a private wine tasting in The Wine Den, an architecturally designed hideaway tailor-made for an intimate and immersive experience, either before or after your meal at the restaurant.
Address: 433 Bawden Road, Woodend
Mount Towrong Vineyard, set between the hills of Mount Macedon and Mount Towrong, offers a charming combination of rustic Italian food and handcrafted wines. Family-owned since 1996, the vineyard produces low-intervention, vegan-friendly wines that perfectly complement their homestyle dishes.
The two-storey cellar door provides a welcoming space for tastings, with stunning views of the vineyard. Whether you’re dining upstairs with sweeping vistas or downstairs by the wood fire, the relaxed atmosphere and delicious food make this venue a must-visit.
Address: 4 Taylors Road, Mount Macedon
Renowned for its long-standing excellence, Granite Hills Wines has spent over five decades mastering cool-climate winemaking. With a rich history and countless awards, each estate-grown bottle captures the spirit of the Macedon Ranges and the dedication of two generations of winemakers.
The inviting cellar door, open daily, is ideal for sampling their celebrated wines while enjoying the idyllic surroundings. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic, unwind with a glass of their favourite wine, and embrace a lazy afternoon by the vineyard.
Address: 1481 Burke and Wills Track, Baynton
Daylesford isn’t just for wine lovers—it’s also home to incredible distilleries offering handcrafted spirits, craft beers, and refreshing ciders. Perfect for expanding your liquor-loving palate, here’s a guide to the finest in the area.
Located in the historic old Butter Factory on the outskirts of Daylesford, Terra Australis Distillery provides a casual space for visitors to enjoy its handcrafted spirits. The tasting room’s relaxed vibe, featuring plush leather seating and wooden decor, sets the chill tone for sampling their range of botanical gins, smooth vodkas, and herbal liqueurs.
Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or curious about their signature liqueurs, this distillery is the ideal stop for a leisurely afternoon.
Address: Lot 2 Railway Crescent, Daylesford
At Daylesford Cider, heritage apples and artisanal craftsmanship come together to create some of the region’s finest ciders. Open daily, this English-style tavern offers tastings of their award-winning ciders, ranging from robust to refreshingly light.
Enjoy a cider tasting paddle in the scenic courtyard or retreat indoors by the fire to keep cosy during winter. With a menu featuring cheese boards, charcuterie, and weekend wood-fired pizzas, it offers an all-round delicious day out.
Address: 155 Dairy Flat Road, Musk
Hepburn Distillery is all about crafting high-quality, locally inspired spirits from the ground up. Using organic ingredients and sustainable practices, this family-run distillery handcrafts premium gins, vodkas, and whiskeys with a deep connection to the land. Each spirit is lovingly fermented, distilled, and triple-filtered on-site to ensure top-quality flavours.
A visit to the Daylesford cellar door offers tastings of these award-winning spirits in a cosy, inviting setting. For an immersive experience, try the whiskey-making workshop, where you can create your own spirit and explore the entire distilling process.
Address: 1 Gin Lane, Daylesford
Established in 2015, Daylesford Brewing Co brings together the love of craft beer and the history of Daylesford. Founders Dave and Jessica have created a brewery that not only celebrates locally brewed beer but also the town they call home. With an ever-changing lineup of handcrafted beers, each visit promises something new.
Visit their inviting taproom, inspired by the gold rush era, for a taste of their latest brews. Pair your beer with dishes designed to complement the flavours, or explore the range of local wines, spirits, and whiskeys.
Address: 97 Vincent Street, Daylesford
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