Melbourne in Good Company
When Melbourne recently joined the Global Network of Great Wine Capitals, its profile, as Australia’s leading wine city, was recognised internationally. The Global Network of Great Wine Capitals was created to encourage international winery tourism, as well as economic, academic, and cultural development between these famous wine-growing capitals.
The Global Network of Great Wine Capitals
Bordeaux – The great chateaux of the Haut Medoc, the vinous nectar of Sauternes and the medieval town of St Emilion are key pieces of the Bordeaux jigsaw.
Santiago de Chile – The permanently snow-clad Andes, and the Incan civilisation followed by that of Spain, have created a viticultural paradise and wines which are sweeping the world.
San Francisco – Who has not heard of the Napa and Sonoma Valleys, where the winemaking dreams of rich and poor alike come to life in a myriad of ways?
Porto – The timeless majesty and vast scale of the Douro Valley, with Porto its final destination, produces the world’s only true vintage and tawny ports.
Florence – Vines, olive trees and cypresses clad the rolling hills of Chianti and surround the stone wineries, castles and houses of Tuscany, ever-illuminated by the unique Tuscan light.
Melbourne – As the capital of Victoria, a grape state of more than 19 distinct wine regions and more than 320 wineries, Melbourne is a perfect partner for the winery network and its inclusion salutes Victoria’s award winning wine industry as one of the best in the world.
Victoria’s wine industry has turned the full circle: from the halcyon days of the late 19th century when the State was Australia’s foremost wine producer, through an economic downturn and the scourge of phylloxera, to its renaissance as a major winegrowing force. This is the stuff of Bacchanalian legends.
Appreciate the past, experience the present, look to the future. That’s the catchcry in a State of 350 wineries, over 200 of which welcome visitors to their cellar doors throughout the year. 100 situated within an hour or so from Melbourne. If there’s no time to take a week – or even a weekend – a single day in the wine country will revitalise the palate and soothe the soul.
Discover how easy it is to taste every part of Victoria – both food and wine. Many wineries have restaurants or cafés presenting regional and seasonal foods. Others will point you in the direction of favourite eateries.
Enjoy local wines with fresh local produce. Cheeses, fruits, meats and breads which form the basis of simple meals take on a whole new look – and taste – in the hands of young and enthusiastic chefs who preside over their kitchens in the vineyards with the same dedication and knowledge as their city counterparts.
Or buy from farm gates or delis to make your own picnic. Don’t forget to pack the corkscrew!
But we do not live by food alone. Or wine. Wherever you go take time to explore the art galleries, local markets, antique shops, botanic gardens and national parks which make each region special. Stay overnight in a cosy Bed and Breakfast, friendly guesthouse or glamorous resort. Local festivals abound – many themed around food and wine.
