- Local Loves
Local Loves: Why The Goulburn Valley Wine Region Is Worth A Holiday On Its Own
A hidden gem in the Aussie wine scene, The Goulburn Valley Wine Region has been quietly achieving for a long time, producing top-tier bottles yet somehow still flying under the radar.
And, as the region’s wineries gain recognition (the area’s Tar & Roses winery was recently a finalist at Vintage Cellars Best of Wine Awards, with their Pinot Grigio a finalist for Best Lighter White Under $25), so too does its allure as a holiday destination. Picture this, all a 90-minute hop from Melbourne: soaring panoramas, local wildlife wandering the streets and award-winning wines.
To inspire your next trip, we caught up with Simon Lee, Brand Manager at Tar & Roses winery. First things first, he tells us: start with the wine.
“Our longstanding relationships with the region’s best growers, affords us access to amazing fruit … We work with multiple growers within the region which lends us the advantage of sourcing fruit from diverse sites, capitalising on their respective nuances to create a wine of complexity and interest.
As a local of the region’s beautiful township of Nagambie, Lee shares the must-do activities on your next visit, and why you can’t miss a meal at Eighteen Sixty (washed down with a mediterranean-inspired wine from Tar & Roses, of course).
First up, why is Nagambie and Goulburn Valley region so good for producing wine?
The influence of the lake and river helps moderate the otherwise potential harsh extremes, creating milder mesoclimate conducive to quality viticulture.
Ohh, interesting. Nagambie is definitely considered a hidden gem. For its geography, sure, but where in the Goulburn Valley region is your best kept secret?
The ‘go-to’ is definitely Eighteen Sixty in Nagambie. It’s no surprise that our Mediterranean inspired wines pair beautifully with their menu, especially the artisanal, handmade pasta dishes.
Next door is their other venture, Next Door – grab arguably the best coffee in town and don’t get me started on the Mushroom and Taleggio toastie – OMG!
Bank Street Pizza in Avenel is also a must – the Smooshed Potato pizza and a glass of our Pinot Grigio are the perfect pair.
If you could bring people to Nagambie for one thing and one thing only, what would it be?
That’s easy – the wines! Specifically, Tar & Roses!
What about the Goulburn Valley region inspires you and the wines you create?
It’s difficult not to be inspired by the region. Its rugged beauty and diversity from the river flats to the undulating beauty of the Strathbogie Ranges gives way to stunning afternoon light that’s inspired many great artists. I feel this passion for the region is evident in our wines.
You’re planning a Goulburn Valley region road trip … where are your must-stop spots?
For a getaway, a stay at Trawool Resort is a no-brainer, incorporating a drive through Strath Creek, (with a pitstop at The General), up to the Murchison Gap Lookout for what must be one of the best views going.
For some inspired and authentic Italian fare, Baracca Lane in Seymour is non-negotiable! A beer by the lake in Nagambie doesn’t leave one wanting either and a visit to the iconic Mitchelton Tower should be an itinerary staple.
One thing people can’t leave Nagambie without doing is…
The obligatory photo with Black Caviar followed by a slow stroll along the boardwalk at dusk.
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