Yarra Valley

Victoria’s oldest viticultural area dating back to 1837. Initially it won admiration and trophies for its dry wines before losing out to fortifieds (from S. Australia) and then to the dairy cow. The 1960s saw a revival with Dr Bailey Carrodus founding Yarra Yering in 1969, closely followed by another medic Dr John Middleton with Mount Mary in 1971. 

Famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the region has attracted interest from sparkling houses, notably Domaine Chandon as well as from one of two corporates; Melbourne’s continued sprawl represents the biggest threat to this Victorian idyll.

The climate is cool maritime (15 miles from the ocean), exposed to wind and rain with spring frosts a risk. The region’s warmer northerly aspects are preferred for viticulture. The best soils are underpinned by a low vigour red-brown clay subsoil, while a significant swathe of the region is characterised by vigorous deep red loam.

Recommeded Producers
Toolangi  and Mount Mary represent some of the region’s best producers.