Upper Goulburn
The headwaters of the Goulburn River in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range: Upper Goulburn is one of Victoria's coolest wine regions, growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet at elevations that produce wines of genuine finesse from a quietly devoted group of producers.
Experiences
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We are continually curating new experiences. Check back shortly as we expand our presence in this region.
The Dossier
Upper Goulburn is centred on the Murrindindi and Yea districts, 90 to 120km northeast of Melbourne: about 90 minutes to 2 hours via the Hume Freeway through Yea or the Maroondah Highway through Alexandra. The region is often visited as part of a broader Yarra Valley or Strathbogie circuit; the roads through the foothills are scenic and the distances between cellar doors manageable in a day. Yea and Alexandra are the main towns with accommodation and food.
Harvest runs April through May: one of the latest in Victoria, reflecting the elevation and the cool southerly air that moves through the ranges. Spring (October to November) is when the river valleys and farm country around Yea and Murrindindi are at their most attractive. Summer is mild and pleasant by Victoria standards; this is comfortable touring country when the rest of the state is sweltering.
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Upper Goulburn have a delicacy and precision that reflects the cool conditions: not the powerhouse styles of warmer regions, but wines built for the table and for the medium term. A number of producers here are also growing Riesling and Pinot Gris with real conviction. The cellar door experience tends to be personal and unhurried; this is not a region that sees large visitor numbers, which means the people who do come generally get the winemaker's full attention.