Sunbury boasts a unique microclimate that’s ideal for growing Shiraz and Chardonnay grapes. Winds from the bay to the south meet the air from the mountainous ranges to the north which helps winemakers create refined, cool-climate table wines. With a reputation that stretches across Australia and abroad, this region is so significant its wines have even been bestowed with an internationally recognised Geographic Indicator. 

So why not explore a few of Sunbury’s excellent wineries, on the doorstep at Maplestone.

Craiglee Vineyard

Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine recently named Craiglee as “the best small cellar door” in the area. It might be because the grapes in their wines are all grown, picked and bottled at the vineyard; as they have been since the first vines of the vineyard’s modern era were planted in the 1970s. Or it could be because of their farm dogs Rowdy and Bess. Go pat them with some of Craiglee’s famous Shiraz in hand.

Arundel Farm Estate

If sipping wine with a view of grazing horses (and the odd donkey) sounds good Arundel is the spot for you. This winery grows mostly Shiraz and Viognier plus a little Marsanne and Sauvignon Blanc. Sustainability is a focus here. Consistent spring winds keep the fruit naturally healthy and they are aiming to go organic in the future too.

Witchmount Estate

Cosy up on Chesterfield lounges, while surrounded by juice-stained barrels, at this modern cellar door. Witchmount makes crowd-pleasing classic varietals including Shiraz, Cabernet, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Dogs – and vegan friends – are more than welcome to enjoy this destination too!

Marnong Estate

This stylish winery offers tastings in their cellar door during warmer months or in their sunlit, foliage-filled Atrium bar during winter. Visit them to try Moscato, Pinot Grigio, Rosé and sparkling. You’ll definitely be tempted to stay for a long lunch at their award-winning restaurant Bankvale Run; the rolling countryside views are as wonderful as Marnong’s Chardonnay.

SHARE