Six underrated Australian wine regions to put on your radar

People who enjoy wine often have strong preferences when it comes to their choice of drink. Those who favor bold red wines usually begin and conclude their search in the Barossa or McLaren regions, whereas those who are enthusiasts of chardonnay frequently lean towards the Yarra and Mornington Peninsula.

These areas are all trustworthy and dependable, undoubtedly. They are the safe choices when you want to avoid any potential risks. However, why not expand your horizons and explore some new alternatives? After all, there are over 60 wine-producing areas scattered throughout the country.

In pursuit of that goal, we present six wine regions that are often overlooked and deserve more recognition.

Located just a short drive of approximately four hours to the west of Sydney (perfect for a refreshing long weekend getaway), this forward-thinking town offers numerous attractions for those seeking a break from city life or for those eager to explore the surrounding region. The accommodations available are also outstanding, with the Byng St Boutique Hotel standing out as an especially fabulous choice.

Orange's early attraction was largely due to its reputation as a thriving agricultural region. However, it has since expanded and transformed into much more than just a food-producing area. Thanks to its spacious landscapes and ideal weather conditions, Orange has become a perfect destination for producers of cool-climate wines and ciders as well. As the saying goes, the town's history has been shaped by this remarkable development.

Indulge in and relish De Salis Wines' finest selections at the wine tasting room, or take an exclusive look at the winery's inner workings with a guided tour.

Currently, the area is home to approximately 80 vineyards and approximately 30 places where visitors can sample and purchase wines directly from the producers. Included in this list are De Salis Wines and Printhie, both of which offer a remarkable selection of sparkling wines. Additionally, you can find Patina, Brangayne, Philip Shaw Wines, Colmar Estate, and Ross Hill, among others.

Many people are often amazed to discover that Queensland actually cultivates wine. However, this is indeed the case, and the climate in the Granite Belt region, reminiscent of northern Italy, particularly in the vicinity of Stanthorpe and within a short journey of less than three hours from Brisbane, contributes to the production of outstanding wines.

The primary grape varieties include shiraz, merlot, chardonnay, and cabernet Sauvignon, but it also thrives in the production of unique and uncommon varietals. These unique varietals, known as 'strange birds,' make up less than 1% of all grapevines grown in Australia and have fascinating characteristics.

Balancing Heart is a recently established winery that boasts an extraordinary lineage.

This collection is a wonderful demonstration of the broad range and variety of uncommon types of wine, mainly sourced from Europe. Consider examples like Saperavi from Georgia, Malvasia from Greece, and Vermentino from Italy, just to mention a few.

A selection of wineries that are definitely worth considering are Ballandean Estate Wines (an essential stop if you're interested in trying out the renowned Saperavi), as well as Boireann, Balancing Heart, and Symphony Hill Wines.

The Granite Belt Wine Trail, spanning 40 kilometers, offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the finest wineries without the hassle of planning your own route.

Located only sixty minutes away from Adelaide, Langhorne Creek often gets disregarded in comparison to its internationally acclaimed neighboring regions, specifically McLaren Vale and Barossa. However, this small village is deserving of recognition, as it was the source of the fruit that helped Wolf Blass achieve success with his early award-winning wines.

Located along the edges of the Bremer River, which runs into Lake Alexandrina, the link between Langhorne Creek and wine can be traced all the way back to 1850. The advantageous riverside position has played a crucial role in its enduring prosperity. During the colder months, the river often overflows onto the vineyards, offering a natural irrigation system that nourishes the fertile and profound soils.

The underground entrance of Bremarton, located in a renovated stone barn dating back to 1866.

The region is famous for its cabernet sauvignon and shiraz, making up a significant 70% of their wine production. However, in recent times, there has been extensive exploration, resulting in the cultivation of various grape types, malbec being one of them.

Here are some noteworthy wineries and establishments to keep an eye out for. These include the long-standing family-owned Bleasdale, which has been in operation for over 170 years. Other notable options include Bremerton, Lake Breeze, Heartland Wines, and Temple Bruer, a leading organic producer in the country.

Within a short car ride, under thirty minutes, from the city of Adelaide, lies Adelaide Hills. This area is sprinkled with small-scale vineyards, featuring well-known labels like Shaw + Smith (renowned for their sauvignon blanc), Nepenthe, and Hahndorf Hill, leading the way in the wine industry.

In the past, this area was filled with apple, pear, and cherry plantations as far as one's vision could reach. Although quite a few of them remain, the main attraction nowadays is wine, as approximately 50 wine tasting venues have emerged in the region like newly sprouting plants.

Bird in Hand has gained a considerable reputation for its effervescent wines.

In the present day, leading the way are vineyards such as Petaluma, Tapanappa Wines, Bird in Hand, The Lane, Tilbrook Estate, K1 by Geoff Hardy, Sidewood, and Deviation Road. Additionally, several vineyards also supply cool-climate fruit to major players in the industry.

In the Basket Ranges, there are daring winemakers who are exploring new territories in their craft. Among them are Ngeringa and Ochota Barrels.

The Macedon Ranges and Daylesford area has truly emerged as a prominent food and wine hotspot in the past twenty years, and it is conveniently located close to Melbourne.

Daylesford and neighboring Hepburn Springs are brimming with high-quality dining establishments, lively rural taverns, havens for relaxation, establishments catering to wine enthusiasts, and luxurious lodging options. Additionally, esteemed wineries such as Passing Clouds, Cobaw Ridge, and Curly Flat frequently receive recognition as leading producers of cool-climate wines in the nation.

Passing Clouds offers a delightful selection of delectable dishes and excellent wine choices.

Passing Clouds is an excellent choice for a midday meal spot, while the wine experts at Curly Flat are known for their expertise in pinot and chardonnay. The minimalist winery, Cobaw Ridge, also deserves recognition, as well as the impressive rieslings made by Knight's Granite Hills winery with their distinctive flinty notes.

Even though it is the oldest wine region in Western Australia and conveniently close to Perth, the Swan Valley wine region has been largely overlooked compared to the more dominant Margaret River and Great Southern regions. It definitely deserves more recognition.

One of the top attractions at this wine destination are Houghton and Sandalford, renowned for their exceptional wineries. You can conveniently access them via a relaxing river journey from Perth. Don't miss out on the opportunity to dine at one of the state's finest winery restaurants at Sandalford.

Guests can also customize their own assortment of food to indulge in while soaking up the sun and surrounded by lush grapevines.

Mandoon Estate and Talijancich Wines are additional well-liked spots for wine tasting, while savoring a sip or more at the Lancaster Wines outdoor shelter – encircled by the vineyards generating its top-notch produce – is consistently an enjoyable venture.

The South Australian Tourism Commission graciously provides the featured image.