Goulburn Valley Wine Region

Named for the Goulburn River running through its centre, the Goulburn Valley wine region is known for its potent reds like Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as the lesser-known grape type Marsanne. Besides being the main source of irrigation for the vineyards in the region, the river and its tributaries also have a great influence on the climate.

Goulburn Valley Climate

TGoulburn Valley experiences warm, dry summers, and coupled with the plentiful supply of water and mostly loosely textured soil, this makes for substantial harvests across the various grape type plantings.

Main Grape Varieties

Shiraz is the main grape type grown in the Goulburn Valley. The wines are strong and flavourful with distinct oak notes and impressive aging ability. The Cabernet Sauvignon is also prominent in the region - almost every winery produces it. Goulburn Valley is also known for its Riesling. Known to be among the best in the Victorian region, Goulburn Valley Rieslings are surprisingly substantial and are known to age well.

As for Marsanne, the Goulburn Valley boasts the world's biggest and oldest plantings, even more so than in its native France. Whereas Marsanne is enjoyed on its own in Australia as an intense, complex wine, French winemakers use it as a blend to add character to other white wines. The presence of this grape defines the wine history of the region.

History

The Tahbilk winery was established in the mid-19th century and quickly did roaring trade with England, Marsanne being among the first bottles shipped northward. More and more wineries emerged within the last 50 years, adding to the diverse spectrum of varietals in the region with plantings of Verdelho.

The Wineries

To experience the diversity of tastes in the Goulburn Valley, consider wines from Twelve Acres Winery, Abbey Creek Vineyard or Lost Valley Winery.

You’ll find more wineries from Goulburn Valley wine region by clicking here:  Wineries from Goulburn Valley