Wine regions in central Victoria

Perhaps the most diverse region in the state, central Victoria encompasses chilly mountain ranges, humid valley plains, fertile river flats, thick forests and dry, rolling hills, producing wines that range from rich, ripe reds to full-flavoured whites.

There are five distinct regions in central Victoria, each with markedly different scenery, altitudes and climates, resulting in different winemaking strengths.

The Goulburn Valley stretches from Seymour in the south to the Murray River in the north, encompassing lush, fertile farmland and the humid, water-abundant sub-region of Nagambie Lakes, famed for its Rhône varietals. To the west is shiraz country, in the sinewy hills around the historic gold-mining town of Bendigo, and among the box ironbark forests around Heathcote.

To the east, the magnificently wild Strathbogie Ranges and high country of Upper Goulburn produce beautiful, cool climate white and sparkling wines of great balance and finesse.

The diversity of central Victoria's wines gives some hint of the amazing abundance of food to be discovered in the area. Lamb, beef, fruit, cheese, nuts and vegetables all thrive here, giving local chefs an incredible palette of flavour with which to create delicious, regional dishes.