Turn your weekend into a wine-filled adventure with this guide to the best wine regions in New South Wales!
New South Wales is not just a treasure trove of iconic landmarks and stunning landscapes; it’s also home to some of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions. With a long history of winemaking, New South Wales is home to a diverse range of climates that produce an expansive selection of exceptional wines.
In this list we uncover the best wine regions in New South Wales. Unique, charismatic and charming in their own sense; from world-renowned vineyards to cool climate regions taking a stance on sustainability, this list is perfect for every type of wine lover out there.
So what are you waiting for? Plan an unforgettable wine journey this weekend with this list of the top wine regions in New South Wales!
1. Hunter Valley
It comes to no surprise that the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region, made the cut as one of the best wine regions in New South Wales. Located just a two-hour drive north of Sydney, this region is a must-visit for its scenic vineyards, gourmet dining, and luxurious accommodation. World renowned for its semillon, the Hunter Valley is also famed for its rich shiraz packed with plenty of robust flavours. With plenty of wineries, tours and cellar door experiences on offer, to experience the region’s finest drops we recommend visiting one of the few Boutique Wineries in Hunter Valley.
2. Mudgee
Nestled in the west of New South Wales, Mudgee is a haven for wine lovers who appreciate boutique wineries and a laid-back country atmosphere. Mudgee’s high altitude and temperate climate are ideal for producing high-quality chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. The region is also a leader in organic and biodynamic wine production, making it a great destination for those interested in sustainable winemaking practices. The charming town of Mudgee offers a range of activities, from farmers’ markets to art galleries, ensuring a well-rounded visit. But, if you’d rather stick to wine, check out this list of the Best Vineyards and Wineries in Mudgee here.
The 4 Best Vineyards and Wineries in Mudgee, New South Wales. Photographed by Daniel Tran. Image via Destination NSW.
3. Orange
Orange is a cool-climate wine region that has gained a stellar reputation for its vibrant and aromatic wines. Located on the slopes of Mount Canobolas, the region benefits from high elevation and rich volcanic soils. Orange is particularly noted for its exceptional pinot noir and riesling, which exhibit great finesse and complexity. Wine festivals throughout the year celebrate the region’s viticultural bounty, providing ample opportunity to sample and savour its diverse offerings. Departing from the city? Check out this Ultimate Road Trip Guide from Sydney to Orange.
4. Southern Highlands
Just an hour-and-a-half south of Sydney, the Southern Highlands is a burgeoning wine region known for its cool-climate varietals and picturesque landscapes. The region’s high altitude and cool temperatures are perfect for producing elegant sparkling wines and crisp pinot gris. The Southern Highlands is also becoming renowned for its boutique wineries that focus on quality over quantity. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting in cosy cellar doors, often accompanied by breathtaking views of rolling hills and verdant vineyards.
Autumnal landscape nature photography Southern Highlands NSW Australia. Image by Martha Almeyda via Shutterstock.
5. Riverina
Riverina, in the southwestern part of New South Wales, is one of Australia’s largest wine-producing areas, accounting for a significant portion of the country’s wine output. The region is particularly famous for its semillon, also known as “Noble Rot,” which produces luscious dessert wines with rich, honeyed flavours. Riverina’s warm climate and fertile soils also support the cultivation of robust reds like durif. While much of the production is geared towards bulk wine, the region is home to several standout wineries that focus on premium quality wines. Regardless, in our opinion, it’s still one of the best wine regions in New South Wales.
For something equally stunning and unique, check out this list of the 8 Most Beautiful Boutique Wineries around Australia of 2024. And plan the ultimate wine escape with the help of this guide to the 13 Best Luxury Winery Stays around Australia.
We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.
