WINE REGION: YARRA VALLEY

REGION SUMMARY

About an hour from Melbourne, the picturesque Yarra Valley region has charm in spades. The Yarra River cuts through green hills and misty valleys. Vineyards neighbour fruit orchards, olive groves and herb farms, and the local produce shows up in farmers’ markets and award-winning restaurants. 

Victoria’s first major wine-growing district, the Yarra Valley is a world-renowned cool-climate region, capable of producing both classic styles and alternative varieties. Heritage and contemporary wineries produce everything from top-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to alternative varieties like Nebbiolo and Arneis.

History has given the region substance, but it doesn't weigh it down. Today, the Yarra Valley is home to an exciting breed of revolutionary winemakers. They are pushing the boundaries of grape growing and winemaking, while respecting the traditions of this idyllic region. An emphasis on the quality and flavour of the wine has spread to the local produce, making the Yarra a little slice of food and wine paradise. 

TOP GRAPE VARIETIES GROWN

CHARDONNAY

The Yarra Valley produces many different styles of Chardonnay, but they’re typically elegant and fresh with citrusy acidity and flavours of stone fruit and fig. Some high-quality wines can be aged for five years or more. 

PINOT NOIR

The Yarra Valley is a pioneer in modern Pinot Noir. It’s a food-friendly red wine with flavours of strawberry, cherry and plum.

SHIRAZ

There are two main styles: bold and rich, or lighter with savoury flavours like olive. The best Shiraz comes from the warmer, lower-altitude vineyards. 

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

Cabernet from the Yarra Valley wine region is rich and full-flavoured but often a little lighter than wines from warmer regions. Many can be aged for 10 to 20 years or more.