The Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula might be Victoria’s best-known wine regions, but did you know that Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula is hot on their heels?
Spanning from the coast to the hinterland, this diverse wine region delivers world-class drops thanks to its optimal combination of low rainfall, winds across the bay and cool climate. Best of all, there are plenty of wineries in close proximity, so sometimes there’s not even any driving required.
“We have so many amazing wineries within walking distance of each other,” says Holly Gillham, Operations Lead at Terindah Estate. “You can enjoy lunch and a wine tasting here at The Shed at Terindah, then head over to Jack Rabbit to enjoy the views and Bennetts on Bellarine for further tastings.”
Along with their own varieties that are deep in colour and full of flavour, each winery has something unique to experience, whether that’s glamping among the vines or paint-and-sip sessions onsite. Here’s our pick of the best the Bellarine wine region has to offer – so why not explore before your Spirit of Tasmania adventure?
Be the first to find out about travel updates, special offers and giveaways.
For art: Provenance Wines
Come for the award-winning wine and stay for the art at Provenance Wines, housed in a 19th-century building on the banks of the Barwon River. Visitors to the old Paper Mill will be able to feast their eyes on a 25sqm mural by internationally-acclaimed, Geelong-born artist Rone. Executed over a period of five days, this stunningly lifelike depiction of a woman stretches all the way up to the historic building’s vaulted ceiling.
The winery also partners with Bells Fine Art Studio to showcase the work of talented local artists, all available to purchase.
For ocean views: Jack Rabbit
Just beyond the crashing waves of Port Phillip Bay on the Bellarine Peninsula sits Jack Rabbit, where unrivalled views across to Geelong and Melbourne make as much of an impression as the wine. Soak up the spectacular vistas through floor-to-ceiling windows at the vineyard’s award-winning restaurant, where modern Australian dishes showcase the best Bellarine has to offer.
For glamping: Terindah Estate
Terindah is the Indonesian word for ‘most beautiful’, which is perfectly fitting for this boutique winery. Nestled next to Jack Rabbit beside the sea and dotted with fig trees and leafy vines, Terindah Estate invites guests to indulge in award-winning wines and delectable food in the most picturesque of settings.
Looking for a wine experience with a difference? The twilight glamping village offers the chance to sleep under the stars in one of 15 luxury bell tents, all with views rolling down to the waters of Port Phillip Bay.
For dining: Scotchmans Hill
Rated among James Halliday’s Top 100 Australian Wineries is Scotchman’s Hill, a highly-regarded vineyard in the region for more than 30 years. It’s easy see why its appeal is enduring: alongside award-winning drops is a complementary dining experience that showcases the finest regional produce. Highlights include locally-sourced charcuterie, Bellarine pressed lamb and Portarlington mussels, fresh from the sea.
Let us know what you think, did you enjoy this blog?
Share on social media:
