Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley was Victoria's first wine growing district and has a history stretching back 170 years. Vines were first planted in 1838 and viticulture spread rapidly through the 1860s and 1870s. However, increased demand for fortified wine saw Yarra Valley wine production cease in 1921. Replanting began in the late 1960s and by the early 1990s the area under vine passed the high point of the 19th century. The Yarra Valley is now recognised as one of Australia's foremost cool climate regions, capable of making classic styles from a wide range of varieties. It is impossible to favour a single variety as the star performer because the Yarra Valley offers sparkling wine (including those made in partnership with French Champagne houses), fine Chardonnay, complex Pinot Noir, silky Shiraz and world-class Cabernet Sauvignon.