Canberra, Australia’s capital city, is not just about politics and culture; it’s also a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts. The Canberra District wine region, located just a short drive from the city, offers an array of vineyards, each with its unique character and offerings. If you’re a wine lover planning a visit, this ultimate wine tour Canberra itinerary will guide you through the must-visit wineries, ensuring you experience the best the region has to offer.
Day 1: Morning – Begin with Clonakilla
Clonakilla Winery is an ideal starting point for your wine tour. Situated in the Murrumbateman region, about 30 minutes from Canberra, Clonakilla is internationally renowned for its Shiraz Viognier blend, a wine that has put Canberra on the global wine map. Begin your day with a guided tasting at their elegant cellar door, where you can sample their full range of wines, including their famous Shiraz Viognier, Riesling, and other varietals.
What to Expect:
- Signature Wine: Shiraz Viognier
- Tasting Experience: Expert-guided, showcasing the history and winemaking process
- Must-Try: The 2018 Shiraz Viognier, often hailed as one of Australia’s finest wines
After your tasting, take a leisurely stroll through the vineyard to soak in the scenery. The tranquil setting, with rows of vines against a backdrop of rolling hills, offers a perfect moment of relaxation before heading to your next destination.
Day 1: Lunch – Enjoy a Gourmet Lunch at Helm Wines
A short drive from Clonakilla will bring you to Helm Wines, a family-run winery known for its exceptional Rieslings and Cabernet Sauvignons. Helm Wines is housed in a historic 19th-century schoolhouse, offering a charming and intimate setting for your visit.
Start your experience with a wine tasting, focusing on their award-winning Rieslings. Then, settle down for a gourmet lunch. Many wineries in the region, including Helm, partner with local chefs to provide gourmet picnic lunches that you can enjoy on the premises. Pair your meal with a glass of Helm’s Riesling, and savor the flavors of locally sourced ingredients alongside the crisp, refreshing wine.
What to Expect:
- Signature Wine: Premium Riesling
- Tasting Experience: Intimate, with personal insights from the winemakers
- Must-Try: Helm Premium Riesling, a wine that exemplifies the cool-climate character of the region
Day 1: Afternoon – Explore Murrumbateman Winery
After lunch, make your way to Murrumbateman Winery. This boutique vineyard offers a more laid-back experience, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Known for their small-batch wines, Murrumbateman Winery produces a variety of styles, including Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Merlot.
The tasting room here is casual and welcoming, with the owners often on hand to chat about their wines and winemaking philosophy. This is a great place to explore lesser-known varietals and blends while enjoying the warm hospitality that smaller wineries are known for.
What to Expect:
- Signature Wine: Shiraz and Merlot
- Tasting Experience: Informal, with a focus on small-batch production
- Must-Try: Sangiovese, a delightful red with a fresh and fruity profile
Before leaving, consider purchasing a few bottles of your favorite wines to take home. Murrumbateman Winery also offers picnic facilities, so if you’re not ready to leave, you can enjoy a glass of wine while relaxing in the vineyard’s peaceful setting.
Day 2: Morning – Visit Four Winds Vineyard
Start your second day at Four Winds Vineyard, a family-owned winery that is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent range of wines, Four Winds offers a perfect start to your day.
The winery is particularly famous for its Shiraz and Sangiovese, but don’t miss out on their Riesling and Merlot. Their cellar door is modern and welcoming, with a wood-fired pizza oven on site. Enjoy a morning tasting, then indulge in a freshly made pizza paired with your favorite wine from the tasting.
What to Expect:
- Signature Wine: Sangiovese and Shiraz
- Tasting Experience: Relaxed and family-friendly
- Must-Try: Wood-fired pizza paired with a glass of Sangiovese
Day 2: Lunch – Wine and Dine at Shaw Vineyard Estate
Your next stop is Shaw Vineyard Estate, located a short drive from Four Winds. This estate is one of the largest in the region and offers a more upscale experience. The modern cellar door is complemented by a fine-dining restaurant, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely lunch.
Start with a tasting of Shaw’s premium wines, including their elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz. Afterward, enjoy a gourmet meal at the estate’s restaurant, where the menu features locally sourced ingredients expertly paired with Shaw’s wines.
What to Expect:
- Signature Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon
- Tasting Experience: Upscale, with a focus on premium wines
- Must-Try: The Reserve Shiraz, a rich and full-bodied wine
Day 2: Afternoon – Finish with a Sunset at Lake George Winery
End your wine tour with a visit to Lake George Winery, one of the oldest vineyards in the region. Located near the stunning Lake George, this winery offers breathtaking views that are especially beautiful at sunset.
Lake George Winery is known for its Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Shiraz. After a tasting, take a moment to relax on the terrace with a glass of wine, enjoying the serene views of the lake and surrounding hills. It’s the perfect way to conclude your wine tour, with the peaceful ambiance providing a memorable end to your Canberra wine experience.
What to Expect:
- Signature Wine: Pinot Noir
- Tasting Experience: Scenic and tranquil, with a focus on heritage wines
- Must-Try: Lake George Pinot Noir, with its delicate structure and complex flavors
Conclusion
A wine tour in Canberra offers a unique and diverse experience, with each winery providing its own distinct flavor and charm. From the iconic Shiraz Viognier at Clonakilla to the peaceful sunset at Lake George Winery, this itinerary is designed to help you savor the best of what Canberra’s wine region has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious novice, this ultimate wine tour itinerary will ensure that your time in Canberra is both relaxing and unforgettable.
