Wineries & Vineyards in the Macedon Ranges
The Macedon Ranges has the coolest grape-growing climate of any wine region on the mainland, with more than 40 vineyards located between 350m and 700m above sea level.
The small quantities of exceptionally high quality wines we produce reflect our climate and topography.
There is a diversity, but the predominant characters are a natural lively acidity and steely backbone; fine, intense but delicate fruit characters and soft tannins in the red wines. The balance of alcohol, acidity and fruit provide complexity and longevity, and make our wines a superb match for a wide range of food.
The native ‘Macedon Sparkling’ variety – made to an agreed style using only Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes grown in the Macedon Ranges – is famed in our region but Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Riesling, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and peppery cold climate Shiraz are also produced. Recent plantings of Nebbiolo, Lagrein, Pinot Gris and Prosecco reflect our region’s Swiss-Italian heritage.
Macedon Ranges wines are widely awarded and celebrated. Curly Flat and Hanging Rock Winery both achieved 5 star ‘Exceptional’ status for their wines in the James Halliday Australian Wine Companion 2015, and Gisborne Peak Winery achieved 4 stars. Granite Hills, perched atop spectacular boulder strewn hills of Baynton, has amassed more than 400 awards at Australian and international wine shows.
The Macedon Ranges is one of the few regions in Australia where the wineries & vineyards are owned and operated almost exclusively as small family concerns. Chances are it will be the winemaker pouring your tasting at the cellar door.
Take it as read that you can add an epicurean edge to your wine experience. At Gisborne Peak you can sit on a deck with views of the vines or next to a fire with hot pizza or prawns. At Paramoor Winery you can pre-order a Vigneron’s Platter to eat in a charming heritage barn converted from old stables.
Better still, put a picnic hamper together with local produce and throw a rug down at one of the many natural attractions you will pass on the way to and from our wineries or at the winery itself.
The Macedon Ranges Wine and Food Festival in November offers guests a personalised experience tasting new and exclusive wines and learning first hand each wine and winemaker’s story. It is the perfect opportunity to take a break from the hectic pace of spring and take a deep breath. Winemaking is a gentle process and this is a big weekend of gentle celebration. Take your time and taste the best wine and food that the Macedon Ranges has to offer. All the producer-families have a great story, all are characters and all are passionate about what they do. Find out more here.
