It is no surprise that Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the most popular varieties in this wine region, which is known for its cool climate. You can still enjoy a visit to the cellars if you are looking for something different.
You travel to experience new things and see different sights. Why not sample some of the other wine varieties in the Macedon Wine region? If you’re looking for something different, here are some suggestions. All of the wineries below have tasting rooms, but it’s important to make sure you call in advance to confirm arrangements.
Cobaw Ridge is the first Australian winery to produce Lagrein. This northern Italian red grape variety is known for its darkly colored wines. Alan Cooper is a winemaker who loves the richness of flavor in his wines. The high altitude, 610m, of his vineyard is credited with the quality of Lagrein. These wines have complex, brooding aromas that are reminiscent of dark chocolate. However, some vintages may be more leathery.
Granite Hills Winery is known for its Rieslings, Shirazs, and Cabernet Sauvignons. Lew Knight, the owner and winemaker of Granite Hills Winery, has expanded his range in recent years. Lew Knight is particularly pleased with his Gruner Veltliner. The cool climate here and the austere soils of granitic rocks are ideal for this grape. Granite Hills produces Pinot Noir, Gamay, and other varieties.
Lyons Will’s Renata and Ollie Rapson are fans of the French variety of red wine. It is known to produce light- and mid-bodied wines, but do not be fooled. Gamay is a variety that packs a punch. Its rich aromas and flavors are incredibly powerful. Lyons Will takes great care to capture the full flavors and aromas of this variety.
Semillon, a white wine, is widely available in New South Wales and the Hunter Valley but is not familiar to many Victorians. Semillon, which is native to France, is often blended with Sauvignon Blanc to produce dry whites. Bob Nixon, at Gisborne Peak, likes to tell his guests how Semillon ages through different stages. It can reach a golden honey-richness with patience.
Hew Richards and Di Richards found some Gewurztraminer in their Midhill Vineyard by mistake. Instead of removing the vines, they were moved into a different block. This grape variety is best in cooler climates, where it produces amazingly aromatic wine. Gewurztraminer is often dry despite the heady aroma. Hew’s wine is crisp and bone-dry. Try it with spicy foods, charcuterie, or tuna.
Mount Towrong has been dubbed the best place to find Italian varieties in the Macedon Ranges. Vermentino is a favorite of Adam Paleg, the winemaker. This white variety is native to Sardinia but also grows on the mainland of Italy. It produces crisp and dry white wines. Adam makes the Vermentino wine more Italian and textural. Mount Towrong makes wine from Prosecco as well as Fiano, Garganega, and Lagrein. Nebbiolo and Sangiovese are also available.
