Murray Darling/Mildura wine region

Encounter bold and resilient winemakers in the Murray Darling region − a virtual desert before irrigation transformed it in the late 1800s. Sample strong-flavoured and lesser-known 'alternative wines', produced masterfully in the face of drought challenges.

Wine reigns supreme in Mildura
Get to the heart of Victoria's wine export industry in Mildura. As renowned local chef and television celebrity Stefano de Pieri explains, Mildura is still the engine of Victoria's wine export industry. 'We produce traditional and alternative varieties, particularly warm-climate varieties,' he says. Visit the area's wineries to see where up to 80 per cent of the state's wine grape production occurs.

Something old, something new
Drop into established vineyards in the Mildura area, which is celebrated for its award-winning wines and the spectrum of varieties it produces. The wine industry is steeped in history here, with the first grape vines planted in 1888. Go cellar-door hopping and enjoy well-priced, easy-drinking wine such as chardonnay along the way.

Visit Mildura in November for the Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show and experience something quite different. This unique show highlights emerging or alternative wines, which are becoming popular worldwide.