Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
there's a daily interactive show at 11.30am (plus 2pm weekends). The exciting Birds of
Prey presentation (noon and 2.30pm daily) features huge wedge-tailed eagles and owls
soaring through the air. Admission for kids is free on weekends.
YARRA VALLEY WINERIES
The Yarra Valley (
www.wineyarravalley.com
) has more than 80 wineries and 50 cellar doors scattered around its
rolling, vine-cloaked hills, and is recognised as Victoria's oldest wine region - the first vines were planted at Yer-
ing Station in 1838. The region produces cool-climate, food-friendly drops such as chardonnay, pinot noir and
pinot gris, as well as not-half-bad, full-bodied reds.
Of the many food and wine festivals in the region, our favourite is
Grape Grazing
(
www.grapegrazing.com.au
)
in February, celebrating the beginning of the grape harvest. Rochford hosts a series
of concerts throughout the year.
Shedfest
, in mid-October, is a showcase of the southern wineries near Warbur-
ton.
Some cellars charge a small fee for tasting, which is redeemable on purchase. Top Yarra Valley wineries with
cellar-door sales and tastings include:
03-5960 7000;
www.coldstreamhills.com.au
;
31 Maddens Lane, Cold-
stream;
10am-5pm) The chardonnay, pinot noir and merlot are the star picks here; good views of the vineyard
and valley.
10.30am-4.30pm) Established by the makers of Moët & Chandon, this slick operation with stunning views is
worth a visit for the free guided tours at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, which include a peek at its atmospheric riddling
hall.
03-5964 9022;
www.medhurstwines.com.au
; 24/26 Medhurst Rd, Cold-
stream;
11am-5pm Thu-Mon) Polished concrete and glass work well together at this modern winery.
10am-5pm) The cellar door affords stunning views at this award-winning winery. Contemporary fare is
dished up in its chic restaurant.
03-5962 2119;
www.rochfordwines.com.au
; 878-880 Maroondah Hwy, cnr Hill
Rd, Coldstream;
9am-5pm) A huge complex with a restaurant, cafe and regular concerts.
Rd, Healesville; 11am-5pm) A convivial bistro and winery in a striking building. Sip away while lazing on
the grassy knolls and visit the superb adjoining art gallery (
Click here
).
10am-5pm) A rustic, family-owned little cellar door in an old hayshed with lovely views.
Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm Sat & Sun) Victoria's first vineyard, and home to the heady shiraz-viognier blend.
