The best wineries to visit in Daylesford and beyond

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Uncover Daylesford’s winery gems, offering handcrafted wines, delicious platters, and scenic views.

Why dream of Tuscany or Bordeaux when Australia’s Daylesford region offers a collection of world-class wineries? With options ranging from long lunches overlooking picturesque vineyards to tastings and gourmet platters at cosy cellar doors, you’re spoiled for choice.

Use our guide to plan your ultimate wine-tasting adventure through the top wineries in Daylesford and its surrounding regions.

Daylesford wineries

Beyond the village charm, boutique shopping, and indulgent day spas, the Daylesford region holds another gem—its world-class wineries. With lush landscapes fostering some of the finest vineyards, we’ve gathered our favourite spots to sip and savour wines that are as rich in character as the town itself.

1. Passing Clouds

the grape vines at Passing Clouds, Daylesford
Passing Clouds has been in the premium grape-growing business since 1974. (Image: Nikole Ramsay)

The closest cellar door to Daylesford, Passing Clouds is a family-run vineyard crafting exceptional wines since 1974. Open daily, their cellar door offers a personalised tasting experience, showcasing their acclaimed pinot noir and chardonnay, along with limited-edition varietals.

For a memorable lunch, the estate’s restaurant pairs these elegant wines with chef Cameron McKenzie’s locally inspired dishes. Diners can sip and savour as they take in the tranquil vineyard views, making it the prime setting for a relaxed afternoon in the heart of Musk.

Address: 30 Roddas Lane, Musk

2. Captains Creek Organic Wines

Home to some of Daylesford’s best organic wines, Captains Creek Organic Wines provides a relaxed yet refined experience for the discerning wine lover. From sparkling whites to bold chardonnays, their cellar door showcases the essence of sustainable winemaking. Weekend tastings provide the opportunity to discover their range in a tranquil setting.

Complement your visit with a paddock-to-platter feast at their cafe, where farm-fresh produce and local delicacies shine on shared plates. If you like what you taste, don’t forget to take home your favourite wines, ciders, and regional cheeses to continue the experience.

Address: 120 Kangaroo Hills Road, Blampied

3. Attwoods Wines

people enjoying lunch on the outdoor deck of Attwoods Wines
Enjoy lunch on the al fresco deck.

Set against a backdrop of vines and leafy green spaces, Attwoods Wines is where cool-climate pinot noir and chardonnay thrive. Just ten minutes from Daylesford, this Glenlyon winery is run by passionate grape growers who craft wines that reflect both the vintage and terroir, welcoming visitors to their award-winning cellar door for tastings.

For a laid-back afternoon, relax with a glass of wine on the deck or savour the set menu at their dining room, Le Bouchon. Before you go, don’t miss out on their signature pinot noirs and sought-after 2019 ‘Le Sanglier’ Nebbiolo.

Address: 260 Green Gully Road, Glenlyon

4. Zig Zag Rd Wines

a blurry image of a woman walking inside Zig Zag Rd Wines
Sip on a fresh riesling or a delicate pinot noir. (Image: MAD creative)

Set in the scenic Macedon Ranges, Zig Zag Rd Wines celebrates the essence of cool-climate winemaking. Their handpicked estate-grown grapes, cultivated in basalt-rich soils, produce expressive riesling, pinot noir, and syrah that beautifully embody its natural setting. Tastings at their cellar door offer a personal glimpse into their innovative and seasonal offerings.

For a more relaxed visit, indulge in a pre-ordered picnic filled with local artisanal treats. Whether you’re lounging on the shady deck or the lawn, the whole family—including dogs on a lead—is warmly welcomed.

Address: 201 Zig Zag Road, Drummond North

5. Wombat Forest Winery

an array of wines at Wombat Forest Winery, Daylesford
The beloved winery stocks a selection of Daylesford wines.

Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Wombat State Forest, Wombat Forest Winery offers a serene escape just 15 minutes from Daylesford. Specialising in premium handcrafted wines, their small-batch approach delivers cool-climate reds with refined flavours, aged to perfection in French oak barrels.

Take part in a tasting session at the cellar door, or savour a glass on the deck with sweeping views of the forest. During winter, snuggle up next to the wood fire and enjoy a delicious seasonal platter.

Address: 189 Springhill Road, Denver

Kyneton Wineries

Known for its historic charm and country-style allure, Kyneton is a go-to destination for those seeking a peaceful escape. Its wineries and top-notch eateries, however, are the hidden gems that truly set it apart. Let us introduce you to some of their finest.

5. Musk Lane Wine

a vintage car stopping by Musk Lane Wine, Daylesford
Swing by Musk Lane Wine for a relaxed tasting.

Blending the feel of an urban winery with the charm of a neighbourhood wine bar, Musk Lane Wine provides a laid-back atmosphere in historic Kyneton. Brendan Lane’s small-batch, lo-fi wines are a testament to his passion for crafting authentic, soulful vintages that truly embody Central Victoria.

Pop into the cellar door for a relaxed tasting or unwind in the beer garden with friends over a bottle. On special occasions, a food truck joins the scene, enhancing the casual vibe of this dog-friendly venue where everyone feels at home.

Address: 1 Turner’s Lane, Kyneton

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6. Kyneton Ridge Estate

Perched among the rolling hills of the Macedon Ranges, Kyneton Ridge Estate invites visitors to experience its blend of small-batch winemaking, art, and local flavours. A seated wine tasting offers a glimpse into the estate’s unique approach, with flights featuring six carefully crafted wines that reflect the season and sustainability practices.

After your tasting, stay for a meal at The Ridge Cafe, where co-owner Angela Wood serves modern Australian dishes with Mediterranean flair. Be sure to explore the Kyneton Ridge Artspace, which showcases rotating exhibitions from emerging and established artists.

Address: 517 Blackhill Road, Kyneton

7. Cleveland Estate

a woman dining at Cleveland Estate
Wine and dine while admiring the picturesque vineyard views.

Within the illustrious Lancemore Estate, Cleveland Estate boasts the region’s only underground cellar door, providing a truly distinctive wine-tasting experience. Surrounded by the luxury accommodations and expansive beauty of the estate, visitors can enjoy an impressive selection of local wines, including their very own vintages.

Once you’ve discovered the underground treasures, savour wood-fired pizzas or a gourmet meal at the onsite restaurant, Carriage House Restaurant, set against the backdrop of the estate’s tranquil vineyards.

Address: 55 Shannons Road, Lancefield

8. Curly Flat Vineyard

Amid the breathtaking landscapes of the Macedon Ranges, Curly Flat Vineyard has been producing top-tier wines since 1989. Under Jenifer Kolkka’s leadership, the estate is celebrated for its refined pinot noir and chardonnay, wines that consistently impress with their complexity and balance.

Visitors are treated to a complimentary tasting of the latest releases, each sip accompanied by engaging stories from the vineyard’s history. With its pet-friendly atmosphere, it’s a haven for wine enthusiasts and dog lovers alike.

Address: 263 Collivers Road, Lancefield

9. Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard

hands holding glasses of wine on the table at Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard
Sip on delicious shiraz. (Image: KGMG Creative)

At Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard, the focus is on letting the land speak through each bottle. The laid-back cellar door offers a warm and inviting setting for visitors to taste superb wines, accompanied by a bit of friendly banter.

Complement your wine with a charcuterie platter filled with locally sourced goodies, or elevate your experience with a sparkling wine workshop. Guided by Brian Martin, this interactive session reveals the art of sparkling wine production and gives you the chance to create your own bottle to enjoy at home.

Address: 362 Pipers Creek-Pastoria Road, Pipers Creek

Macedon Wineries

Venturing a little further afield, the Macedon Ranges region is home to some of Victoria’s most notable wineries. Whether you opt for a wine tour or enlist a designated driver, get ready to indulge in the exquisite flavours of this celebrated wine region.

10. Lyons Will Estate

guests arriving at Lyons Will Estate, Daylesford
Step into the cellar door for a sit-down wine tasting.

Driven by a love for the land, Lyons Will Estate offers a boutique wine experience in the heart of the Macedon Ranges. Every bottle reflects the vineyard’s commitment to sustainability, with winemakers Ollie Rapson and Renata Morello following a hands-off approach that lets the grapes’ natural qualities take centre stage.

Open every weekend, the cellar door offers seated tastings where visitors can sample estate-grown wines and enjoy local produce platters. Keep an eye out for their pop-up events throughout the year.

Address: 60 Whalans Track, Lancefield

11. Hanging Rock Winery

the exterior of Hanging Rock Winery, Macedon Ranges
Come for the wine and stay for the majestic views. (Image: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria)

Hanging Rock Winery, nestled in the Macedon Ranges, combines award-winning wines with incredible natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy complimentary tastings of their signature wines, including the Macedon NV Brut Cuvee and Heathcote Shiraz, guided by passionate staff who bring the wine’s story to life.

Sit back with a local produce platter, filled with cheeses and estate-grown beef, while admiring the view. Don’t miss their annual Art in the Vines sculpture exhibition, adding a creative touch to this already unforgettable winery.

Address: 88 Jim Road, Newham

12. Mount Macedon Winery

the lush surroundings at Mount Macedon Winery, Daylesford
The mountainside winery is set amongst lush greenery. (Image: Alex Colcheedas)

Set off on the forest trail to discover Mount Macedon Winery, a mountainside retreat that artfully combines the rustic charm of the Australian countryside with sleek, contemporary design. From tastings at the cellar door to meals at UUMM restaurant, the focus is always on artisanal wines and fresh, local ingredients, offering a sophisticated and sensory experience.

Elevate your visit with a private wine tasting in The Wine Den, an architecturally designed hideaway tailor-made for an intimate and immersive experience, either before or after your meal at the restaurant.

Address: 433 Bawden Road, Woodend

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13. Mount Towrong Vineyard

the winery at Mount Towrong Vineyard, Daylesford
Italian heritage meets sustainable winemaking at Mount Towrong Vineyard. (Image: Visit Victoria/Rob Blackburn)

Mount Towrong Vineyard, set between the hills of Mount Macedon and Mount Towrong, offers a charming combination of rustic Italian food and handcrafted wines. Family-owned since 1996, the vineyard produces low-intervention, vegan-friendly wines that perfectly complement their homestyle dishes.

The two-storey cellar door provides a welcoming space for tastings, with stunning views of the vineyard. Whether you’re dining upstairs with sweeping vistas or downstairs by the wood fire, the relaxed atmosphere and delicious food make this venue a must-visit.

Address: 4 Taylors Road, Mount Macedon

14. Granite Hills Wines

a scenic landscape of the vineyard at Granite Hills Wines
Granite Hills Wines rises 550 metres high on the north peaks of the Great Dividing Range.

Renowned for its long-standing excellence, Granite Hills Wines has spent over five decades mastering cool-climate winemaking. With a rich history and countless awards, each estate-grown bottle captures the spirit of the Macedon Ranges and the dedication of two generations of winemakers.

The inviting cellar door, open daily, is ideal for sampling their celebrated wines while enjoying the idyllic surroundings. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic, unwind with a glass of their favourite wine, and embrace a lazy afternoon by the vineyard.

Address: 1481 Burke and Wills Track, Baynton

Distilleries in Daylesford

Daylesford isn’t just for wine lovers—it’s also home to incredible distilleries offering handcrafted spirits, craft beers, and refreshing ciders. Perfect for expanding your liquor-loving palate, here’s a guide to the finest in the area.

 15. Terra Australis Distillery

Located in the historic old Butter Factory on the outskirts of Daylesford, Terra Australis Distillery provides a casual space for visitors to enjoy its handcrafted spirits. The tasting room’s relaxed vibe, featuring plush leather seating and wooden decor, sets the chill tone for sampling their range of botanical gins, smooth vodkas, and herbal liqueurs.

Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or curious about their signature liqueurs, this distillery is the ideal stop for a leisurely afternoon.

Address: Lot 2 Railway Crescent, Daylesford

16. Daylesford Cider

a farmer picking grapes in a vineyard along with a dog at Daylesford Cider
The award-winning ciders are crafted from organic heritage apples grown on the farm. (Image: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria)

At Daylesford Cider, heritage apples and artisanal craftsmanship come together to create some of the region’s finest ciders. Open daily, this English-style tavern offers tastings of their award-winning ciders, ranging from robust to refreshingly light.

Enjoy a cider tasting paddle in the scenic courtyard or retreat indoors by the fire to keep cosy during winter. With a menu featuring cheese boards, charcuterie, and weekend wood-fired pizzas, it offers an all-round delicious day out.

Address: 155 Dairy Flat Road, Musk

17. Hepburn Distillery

a bottle of gin on the leaves at Hepburn Distillery
Join a tasting flight of premium gins at Hepburn Distillery.

Hepburn Distillery is all about crafting high-quality, locally inspired spirits from the ground up. Using organic ingredients and sustainable practices, this family-run distillery handcrafts premium gins, vodkas, and whiskeys with a deep connection to the land. Each spirit is lovingly fermented, distilled, and triple-filtered on-site to ensure top-quality flavours.

A visit to the Daylesford cellar door offers tastings of these award-winning spirits in a cosy, inviting setting. For an immersive experience, try the whiskey-making workshop, where you can create your own spirit and explore the entire distilling process.

Address: 1 Gin Lane, Daylesford

18. Daylesford Brewing Co

wines and spirits on display at Daylesford Brewing Co
Sample estate-grown wines and premium brews.

Established in 2015, Daylesford Brewing Co brings together the love of craft beer and the history of Daylesford. Founders Dave and Jessica have created a brewery that not only celebrates locally brewed beer but also the town they call home. With an ever-changing lineup of handcrafted beers, each visit promises something new.

Visit their inviting taproom, inspired by the gold rush era, for a taste of their latest brews. Pair your beer with dishes designed to complement the flavours, or explore the range of local wines, spirits, and whiskeys.

Address: 97 Vincent Street, Daylesford

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Goat yoga to gastronomy: The ultimate guide to Wimmera Mallee, Vic

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating. 

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned. 

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world. 

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria
Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves. 

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.  

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions. 

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.  

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed
Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene. 

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure. 

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po, where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls. 

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed, the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles. 

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia
Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes. 

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell, which turns pink during wet and warm conditions. 

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden. 

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic. 

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee
Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area. 

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality. 

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green.  For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.  

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times. 

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee
Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge, also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway. 

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning. 

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike. 

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre. 

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum
Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again. 

Each year, the Lake Chelegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark. 

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival, a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show, which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj, a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community. 

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au

Picture-Perfect Wineries In Daylesford | Australian Traveller