To celebrate regional Australia we’re running a 3-part series on the Mudgee region. A far cry from sleepy country towns, this region boasts of art, culture, food and wine, making it – Sydney’s cool cousin.
In the third and final part of our series we’re looking into Australia’s finest cool climate wines which you can find in Mudgee. Being Australia’s oldest wine region and the birthplace of Australian chardonnay the region is a must-visit for any wine enthusiasts.
With a region jam packed with vineyards we have made things a tad bit easier for you by listing 6 wineries and cellar doors you should definitely add to your list. Whether you’re into sparkling, rosé, white or red these wineries offer award-winning wines, scenic views, breathtaking nature and friendly locals.
1. Logan Wines
Kick back on the terrace and enjoy the incredible view!
Winemaker Peter Logan started the brand ‘Logan’ back in 1997 together with his father and is now running the business with his wife Hannah (he also dedicated a rosé wine ‘Hannah’ to her for their wedding day).
Their award-winning Tasting Room is located on your left hand side when driving in towards Mudgee making it the perfect first pit stop on your wine tour. Head up to the architecturally impressive building and taste the wide range of wines and kick back on the terrace whilst enjoying the incredible view.
For more information visit http://www.loganwines.com.au
Winemaker Peter Logan
2. Skimstone
Skimstone’s tasting shed offers a picture-perfect view!
Across the road from Logan Wines you will find Skimstone a cellar door specialising in food friendly Italian wines including Sangiovese and Barbera. The tasting shed is surrounded by an incredible view of mountains, fields and a rich wildlife (if you are lucky you will spot colourful birds in the paddock and even kangaroos). The Skimstone wines are made by Johs Clementson at the Apple Tree Flat vineyard and the Estate’s selection includes both rose and chardonnays. Make sure you try 2011 Barbera, a fruity red wine and winner of 2012 Citibank NSW Wine Awards Top 40.
For more information visit http://skimstone.com.au
3. Moothi Estate
Moothi Estate
Only a few minutes drive from the town centre you will find Moothie Estate located on the unique north-west facing slopes of Mount Frome offering a scenic view of the Mudgee valley. Moothie Estate is run by a lovely young couple, Jessica and her Canadian partner Jason and they are both incredibly passionate about their wines and happy to share their expertise. If rosé wine is your thing make sure you try the 2012 Rosé which is made from 100% Shiraz fruit and tones of cherry and raspberry making it a soft, sweet and juicy rosé.
For more information visit http://www.moothiestate.com.au
4. di Lusso Estate Mudgee
di Lusso Estate Mudgee
di Lusso is not just a vineyard it’s also an amazing restaurant so if you fancy a nice Italian luncheon combined with a visit to a cellar door then this winery is a real winner! It’s no surprise that di Lusso is a popular venue for weddings and corporate functions with its beautiful surroundings, excellent food and of course tasty Italian-inspired wines. After you have had your weekly carb intake from the mouthwatering pizzas, pastas and garlic breads (all ridiculously tasty) pop into the cellar door and make sure you try the 2013 Moscato which is a light, semi-sweet frizzante wine made from the black Moscato grape locally grown in Mudgee.
For more information visit http://dilusso.com.au
di Lusso Estate owner and former Wallstreet banker Robert Fairall or “Roberto” is inspecting the vines
5. Huntington Estate Wines
Huntington Estate Wines is also offering chorizo- making classes
Receiving a 5 star rating in the James Halliday Wine Companion 2012 and 2013, Huntington Estate, which was established in 1969 can claim to be one of the oldest Vineyards in the Mudgee region and the place oozes with history. The estate prides itself of being quite conservative in the sense that no wines are being adapted or changed due to fashion trends. At Huntington Estate they stick with what they know which is well produced wines that are all designed for ageing which makes them traditional and rustic. If merlot wine floats your boat than make sure you pick up the 2012 Cabernet Merlot.
For more information visit http://www.huntingtonestate.com.au
6. Robert Stein Winery & Vineyard
If you are an early bird eager to hit the road in the morning make sure you plan a stop at Robert Stein Winery & Vineyard for a delicious breakfast at the fine-dining restaurant Pipeclay Pumphouse located on the estate, followed by a peek into the motorcycle museum and finally a stop in the wine shop.
Motorcycle enthusiasts will be positively surprised to find a Motorcycle museum tucked away behind the vineyard.
