Best Wineries for a Winter Escape
Published 28 April 2025
Winter is a great time to visit Australia’s wine regions, admire the vines, meet the winemakers, and be the first to taste some brand new releases. What could be better than enjoying a glass of bold Shiraz in a cosy cellar door on a cold Winter’s day, many scattered throughout all the wine regions. From big-name wineries to boutique beauties hidden down country back roads, wineries offer a range of fun activities, from bike tours, wine and chocolate tastings and of course stunning restaurants from casual to fine dining.
In addition to those featured below, see our full list of restaurants and bars associated with wineries to plan your own getaway.
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It's perfect for long lunches and big views with a glass of something local in handYou need to try the five-course tasting menu with matching winesLook out for vineyard views from the hilltop dining room that go on foreverNestled high on a hill in the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country, Bimbadgen is a standout winery offering a sweeping Cellar Door, the acclaimed Esca Bimbadgen restaurant, a relaxed cafe, modern tasting rooms, and stylish accommodation. Explore the open-plan winemaking facility with viewing platforms overlooking the production process. Visit the Cellar Door to sample award-winning wines or unwind with a glass and a wood-fired pizza in the courtyard cafe.Read more -
It's perfect for long lunches that blend paddock-to-plate dining with rolling vineyard viewsYou need to try the five-course seasonal set menu with optional wine pairings from Lowe Family Wine CoLook out for the open kitchen and garden strolls between courses that make every bite feel earnedLowe Wines is a certified organic and biodynamic vineyard, winery and farm in Mudgee in NSW’s Central West. Their restaurant Zin House headed by Chef Kim Currie, specialises in set menu long lunches within a modern farmhouse setting. This is a country food and wine experience not to be missed.Read more -
Rochford Estate in the Yarra Valley knows how to treat its guests. Enjoy fine dining at Isabella's Restaurant, where seasonal dishes are expertly paired with estate wines, or savour traditional woodfired pizzas and creative pastas at il Vigneto Pizzeria. The trip is not complete without a visit to Rochford Cellar Door, where their knowledgeable sommeliers are ready to guide you through a personalised wine tasting experience, sharing the stories behind each bottle.Read more -
Jack Rabbit Vineyard winery has a reputation as a gastronomic showpiece for the Bellarine Peninsula alongside a stable of multi award-winning sophisticated cool climate wines. Sip your way through their vast wine range, then settle in for a delicious a la carte meal packed with local produce. After something more laid-back? The House of Jack Rabbit cellar door dishes up a relaxed cafe menu with views to match, making it a winner for travelers.Read more -
It's perfect for vineyard lunches or sunset dinners with a paddock-to-plate twistYou need to try the ricotta and spinach ravioli or the slow-cooked lamb shank with parmesan mashLook out for the estate-grown produce from their veggie patch and orchard that stars on every plateWinter getaways are even better with cosy meals at Harvest at RidgeView. Surrounded by stunning vineyards, this charming venue offers exceptional local wines and a seasonal menu featuring fresh ingredients. From hearty roasts to indulgent desserts, it’s the perfect place to find comfort on crisp winter days.Read more -
Home Hill Winery Restaurant is situated in the beautiful Huon Valley, a short yet scenic 30-minute drive from Hobart. Cool climate wines are available for tasting in their rammed earth cellar door, while the stunning views from the restaurant overlook the perfect manicured vineyard for an immersive dining experience.Read more -
It's perfect for wholesome lunches with family, friends, a beautiful view and great wineYou need to try the chef’s table 7-course sensory food experience with paired wineLook out for the harvest menu Mondays-Fridays where you choose your own dining journeyA short drive from Adelaide, The Lane Vineyard offers a taste of the countryside in the heart of the Adelaide Hills. Enjoy a warm welcome from passionate winemakers who love sharing their craft, and learn from the best as you have the chance to blend your own wine. With a sleek tasting room and a contemporary restaurant serving up seasonal menus, The Lane is all about great wine, great food, and relaxed charm— all must haves for any successful winter escape.Read more -
Leeuwin Estate in Margaret River offers a sensory immersion experience pairing art with wine. With sweeping verandahs, the Leeuwin restaurant overlooks a meadow surrounded by a forest of majestic karri trees. For bigger groups or larger celebrations, the Leeuwin Wine Room is available for private dining group bookings. Leeuwin features an award-winning restaurant, cellar door and art gallery, making it the perfect place to stay and take in your surroundings.Read more -
Situated on the coveted Mornington Peninsula, The Cups Estate is the perfect winter getaway, offering award-winning wines and a seasonal chef’s menu. The rolling vineyard hills create a stunning, tranquil backdrop, making for a cosy and memorable experience.Read more -
In the heart of the pristine Yarra Valley, Domaine Chandon is the perfect escape for wine lovers, weekend travelers and foodies alike. Sip sparkling wine while soaking up sweeping vineyard views, then ponder over a menu designed to match each dish perfectly with a glass in hand, from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses and cured meats made for sharing. Laid back yet luxurious, it’s the ideal way to spend a day in wine country.Read more