Grampians Wine Tours: Explore, sip, savour
Imagine a morning where the mountains of the Grampians rise dramatically in the distance, the vines glisten with dew, and the promise of adventure lingers in the crisp country air. You’re in Great Western, the beating heart of one of Australia’s most historic wine regions, where stories of pioneers and winemakers are woven into every bottle. A self-driven wine tour here is not just about tasting extraordinary wines, it’s about stepping into a living storybook of flavour, heritage, and discovery.
Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just dipping your toes into the world of Shiraz and sparkling whites, Great Western offers an unforgettable day of exploration. Buckle up for a journey through cellar doors and historic landmarks, before finishing up with a toast at a classix country pub.
Start Your Day at Salinger’s Café
Kick off your Grampians wine tour at Salinger’s Café, a local gem known for its warm hospitality and delicious offerings. Nestled in a historic building, Salinger’s blends rustic charm with contemporary style, making it the ideal spot to fuel up before your adventure.
Their signature Salinger’s Breakfast features locally sourced sausages, crispy bacon, eggs your way, a potato hash, and tomato relish served with sourdough from the Great Western Granary. Prefer something lighter? The smashed avocado with beetroot hummus, Meredith goat’s cheese, and dukkah is a must-try. Salinger’s sets the tone for a day of indulgence and discovery in the Grampians.
Seppelt Great Western: Journey Into The Drives
Begin your wine adventure at Seppelt Great Western, where history and innovation converge at one of Australia’s most iconic wineries. Established in 1865, Seppelt is famed for “The Drives,” an extraordinary network of underground cellars hand-carved by gold miners in the 1860s. These heritage-listed tunnels, stretching over three kilometres beneath the vines, provide a cool, atmospheric setting that remains at a constant 16 degrees year-round. Visitors can take a guided tour of The Drives, where the echoes of winemaking history come alive, before heading to the cellar door to sample their celebrated range of wines.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try their Original Sparkling Shiraz, a style Seppelt has been credited with pioneering, alongside a variety of other exceptional offerings. As the first stop on your Great Western journey, Seppelt Great Western sets the tone for a day filled with discovery, rich heritage, and world-class wines.
Must Try Wines:
Seppelt Show Sparkling Shiraz 2012
A classic example of Seppelt’s expertise in sparkling Shiraz, this wine combines rich dark berry and plum flavours with subtle spice and a fine, persistent mousse. Velvety tannins and refreshing acidity create a balanced, savoury finish—perfect for celebrations or pairing with hearty dishes.
Seppelt St Peters Shiraz 2022
Crafted from the finest parcels in the Grampians, this flagship Shiraz boasts blackberry, dark cherry, and plum notes, layered with pepper and clove. Full-bodied with fine tannins and vibrant acidity, it’s a refined wine perfect for cellaring or enjoying now.
Seppelt Salinger Vintage Cuvée 2018
Made using the traditional méthode champenoise, this sparkling wine offers aromas of citrus and green apple with hints of brioche. Crisp and elegant, it delivers a creamy texture and a fine mineral finish, making it an ideal choice for special moments or fine dining.
Grampians Estate: Boutique Winemaking Excellence
Grampians Estate has been crafting exceptional wines since 1989, blending tradition and innovation under the skilled leadership of head winemaker Tom Guthrie. The winery’s focus on estate-grown, hand-picked vines, including the historic 1878 St Ethel’s vineyard, ensures each bottle reflects the unique heritage and terroir of the Grampians.
The daily-open cellar door welcomes visitors to taste celebrated wines in a picturesque setting surrounded by stunning vineyard landscapes. Guests can pair their visit with a light lunch at the winery café, making it an ideal stop for a relaxed and immersive wine experience.
Must-Try Wines:
2018 Streeton Reserve Shiraz
As Grampians Estate’s flagship wine, the Streeton Reserve Shiraz has earned acclaim as one of the region’s finest. With bold dark fruit flavours and a velvety finish, it is both approachable now and suited to extended cellaring.
2013 Muirhead Sparkling Rosé
This sparkling rosé, crafted from 100% Pinot Noir Grapes, is a delicate and refreshing choice. Its elegant pink hue introduces vibrant red berries and floral notes, leading to a lively palate with a fine mousse. Perfect for special occasions or as an aperitif.
2024 Pinot Gris
Showcasing the winery’s versatility, this Pinot Gris offers aromas of pear and baked apple with hints of honeysuckle and tropical fruits. Its full-bodied and soft finish makes it an inviting option for any occasion.
Best’s Wines: Where History Meets Excellence
Best’s Wines has been a cornerstone of Australian winemaking since 1866, with the Thomson family serving as dedicated custodians since 1920. Renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to crafting premium wines, Best’s is home to some of Australia’s oldest vines, including the famed Nursery Block.
This rare collection of ancient varietals stands as a living testament to the winery’s deep-rooted legacy and its enduring connection to the history of Australian viticulture.
Must-Try Wines:
2023 Old Vine Pinot Meunier
Often recognised as one of the three traditional Champagne grapes, Pinot Meunier takes on a distinctive character at Best’s, emerging as a standout red wine, showcasing vibrant red fruit flavours, including cherries and raspberries, beautifully balanced by fine tannins and a refreshing acidity.
2024 Blanc de Noir
Crafted entirely from Shiraz grapes, Best’s Blanc de Noir is a sparkling wine that redefines expectations. Its vibrant profile blends fresh citrus, crisp red apple, and subtle berry notes, creating a lively and refreshing experience. The hallmark brightness of a white wine is enriched by the depth of a Shiraz, resulting in a sparkling wine that is both bold and elegantly refined.
2024 Great Western Riesling
Renowned for their expertise in Rieslings, Best’s continues to impress with the 2024 Great Western Riesling, recently awarded “Best in Show” by Halliday’s Wine Companion. This vibrant wine offers zesty lime and green apple notes, underpinned by a crisp acidity that adds structure and finesse.
The Great Western Hotel: Wine and Dine
After a day of vineyard-hopping, unwind at The Great Western Hotel, a must-visit spot for food, wine, and community. This classic Australian pub is not only a fantastic dining option but also a hub for Grampians wines. Sample wines from across the region, including Montara, Mount Langi Ghiran, and local favourites like Black and Ginger. Pair your drink with a hearty pub meal, and raise a glass to a day well spent.
Plan Your Grampians Wine Tour Today
The Grampians wine region is a blend of history, flavour, and breathtaking landscapes. A self-drive tour allows you to explore at your own pace, uncovering stories behind iconic wines. From Seppelt’s underground Drives to the boutique charm of Grampians Estate and the heritage of Best’s Wines, your journey will be as memorable as the wines you taste.
Need transport? Contact us to organise a bus for your Grampians wine tour.
Start planning your adventure today and discover why Great Western is the ultimate destination for wine lovers and explorers alike.
