Food and Wine Guide 2014

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY

guide NORTH EAST VICTORIA GLENROWAN • KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION BRIGHT & SURROUNDS • DINNER PLAIN MANSFIELD • RUTHERGLEN BEECHWORTH • BENALLA

Pedal to Produce Cycle Trails

Over 100 Food, Wine & Beer Producers

Itineraries & Local Profiles

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY

55 69

The magnificent Estate also hosts the renowned Terrace Restaurant awarded ‘one hat’ by The Age Good Food Guide 2014.

45

Discover an outstanding range of premium table wines and fortifieds, and sample a fine selection of cheeses and local produce in our gourmet providore, Indigo Cheese Co.

31

Established in 1864, All Saints Estate is one of Australia’s landmark wineries.

FOOD and WINE guide 8th Edition

75

All this set amidst historical buildings and beautiful lavish gardens.

Cellar Door open every day except Christmas Day: Mon - Sat 9am - 5.30pm, Sun 10am - 5.30pm.

Bookings essential on 1800 021 621

31 • BEECHWORTH & SURROUNDS 45 • BENALLA 55 • BRIGHT & SURROUNDS

75 • GLENROWAN

Celebrating 150 years of winemaking excellence.

83 • KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION 103 • MANSFIELD 113 • RUTHERGLEN

113

www.allsaintswine.com.au

103

69 • DINNER PLAIN

All Saints Road, Wahgunyah, Victoria, Australia, 3687 T: 1800 021 621 customerservice@allsaintswine.com.au

83

Cheese tasting room and providore open daily from 11am - 4pm.

Terrace Restaurant open Wed - Sun for lunch and Saturday evening for dinner.

Complimentary chauffeur service available Saturday evenings from Corowa, Wahgunyah and Rutherglen.

HIGH COUNTRY • WELCOME

• HIGH COUNTRY

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY Home to some of Australia’s finest gourmet producers, most acclaimed restaurateurs and internationally recognised winemakers, the food, wine and beer of the High Country is one of Victoria’s truly unique foodie experiences.

Bound by the Victorian Alps and the Murray River, clear streams and rivers feed verdant valleys which in turn bear succulent fruit, nuts and prime lambs – not to mention an inspiring backdrop to an invigorating break.

Here they craft everything from handchurned butter, artisan cheese and ice cream, to mountain-fresh lagers and ales.

Let your palate lead you through historical streetscapes, fine restaurants and providores selling local mustards, olives, preserves, and wines as diverse as cool-climate Italian varietals to full-bodied reds and luscious muscats.

Take a bike ride and venture further afield into the vineyards, orchards and olive groves.

Over 250km of cycling rail trail runs along clear rivers, through natural bushland and mountain landscapes, and past vineyards, hops, orchards and groves.

Hear tips and tales (and possibly some tall ones) from the passionate characters you’ll meet and experience their warm hospitality.

You’ll wonder why you don’t visit the High Country and reinvigorate more often.

02 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 03

HIGH COUNTRY • CONTENTS

• HIGH COUNTRY

Explore by Experience

Movers and Makers

07 • DINING EXPERIENCES 09 • REGIONAL WINES 11 • COOKING SCHOOLS 12 • BREWERY TRAIL 15 • PEDAL TO PRODUCE 17 • ALFRESCO ADVENTURES 18 • HIGH COUNTRY HARVEST 22 • FESTIVALS & EVENTS 24 • SEASONAL PRODUCE 26 • FARMERS’ MARKETS

GUIDE LEGENDS

ACCOMMODATION BAKERY BREWERY CIDER COOKING CLASS FAMILY FRIENDLY FARMERS' MARKET FARM PRODUCE

BEECHWORTH

BENALLA

BRIGHT & SURROUNDs

Michael Ryan

Sandy Leatham

Hamish Nugent & Rachel Reed

Culinary Patriarch

Spirited Gastronome

Dazzling Duo

• 35

• 49

• 59

Explore by Region 31 • BEECHWORTH 45 • BENALLA 55 • BRIGHT & SURROUNDS 69 • DINNER PLAIN 75 • GLENROWAN 83 • KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION 103 • MANSFIELD 113 • RUTHERGLEN

GLENROWAN

Michael Reid

Vine Lover • 79

KING VALLEY & MILAWA Katherine & Caroline Brown

The next Generation • 87

MANSFIELD

Allison Walker

Girl About Town • 107

128 • INDEX INSIDE BACK COVER • REGIONAL MAP

REGIONAL PRODUCE PUBLIC BAR / HOTEL RESTAURANT / CAFÉ

RUTHERGLEN

TOUR

David Morris

Winery/CELLAR DOOR RETAILER

Muscat Magician • 117

WIFI Cover image is by Ewen Bell

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 05

HIGH COUNTRY • DINING EXPERIENCES

• HIGH COUNTRY

DINING EXPERIENCES With an abundance of fresh produce and inspired and passionate chefs, the North East offers diversity and vibrancy to food lovers of all kinds.

Photography: Todd Porter & Diane Cu

Culinary Creatives

Trattoria, Dal Zotto Wines

Mountain View Hotel

From Japanese influenced cuisine at the highly acclaimed two chefs-hatted Provenance, Beechworth, where regional wines are championed in the Best Regional Wine list, to contemporary Italian at Simone’s, Bright the North East offers an eclectic blend of culinary experiences.

Enjoy a grand arrival along the elm-lined driveway to All Saints Estate’s Terrace Restaurant, Waghunyah. Experience a contemporary approach to food at Best New Regional Restaurant Tani Eat & Drink, Bright, with a choice of casual bar dining or the innovative “Feed Me” menu. Intimacy is at the heart of cellar bar and bistro Thirteen Steps, Bright, where the bohemian vibe makes for a down-to-earth dining experience.

Soak in the surrounds of Mt Buffalo at Feathertop Wine’s Al Fresco Dining, Porepunkah or enjoy a la carte dishes created with local produce to complement Brown Brothers wine at Patricia’s Table, Milawa, where the menu changes seasonally.

Gastro Pubs The focus on quality local ingredients and fine local beer, wine and cider is carried through the many gastro pubs that fill the region. Modern inventive pub fare is combined with a relaxed dining environment.

Named in The Age Epicure’s “Top 10 Gastro Pubs in Victoria”, The Mountain View Hotel, Whitfield showcases the best of what the King Valley has to offer through warm hospitality and passionate cuisine. Also highly regarded in The Age Good Food Guide The Plough Inn, Tarrawingee and The Stanley, Stanley offer diverse, flavour-driven experiences for those who appreciate the concept of earth to table.

All About Breakfast A great escape starts with a scrumptious healthy breakfast, whether it is organic fair-trade espresso and amazing homemade sourdough from Café Derailleur, Wangaratta or berries on toasted brioche with mascarpone at Pickled Sisters Café, Wahgunyah. Listen to vinyl records spin at retro café Coral Lee, Bright while you can tuck into pesto toast with poached eggs, beetroot and fetta or head to The Produce Store, Mansfield to fuel up for your adventure.

Instagram a picture + info on your favourite dish with #seehighcountry.

High Country Harvest, Bogong Houseback Adventures

High Country Gourmet Fare

• 07

HIGH COUNTRY • REGIONAL WINES

• HIGH COUNTRY

REGIONAL WINES From its gentle slopes to its rich low plains, from multi-generation family vineyards to innovative young winemakers, the North East has a diversity and abundance of exceptional wine across six wine regions.

Base yourself in one of the towns and either drive or cycle yourself or book a bike, bus or private car tour. The High Country boasts six wine regions: Alpine Valleys, Beechworth, Glenrowan, King Valley, Rutherglen and Upper Goulburn.

Italian Heritage

Join the Club

The King Valley is home to a passionate group of first, second and third generation Italian migrant families, producing Mediterranean inspired varietals such as sangiovese and pinot grigio. The Pizzini nebbiolos are benchmarks for the grape in this country and since the Dal Zotto family released Australia’s first sparkling prosecco in 2004 the region has been synonymous with the style.

Many wineries offer cellar clubs. Sign up at your favourite winery to stay in touch with the region, receive regular deliveries and special offers so you can remember your visit long after you go home.

visitkingvalley.com.au

Rutherglen Reds Rutherglen’s low land and long, dry autumns, combine to create perfect conditions for their rich reds. Their durifs and range of fortifieds are famous on the world stage, with many awards and accolades held by the various wineries.

Winemakers are playing on new takes of the old classic with some more refined styles of the durif grapes.

Wine and Dine With the villages and wine districts of the High Country in close proximity, wine touring and indulging in local food go hand in hand. Many vineyards include fabulous dining experiences right in the vines, including: Brown Brothers Patricia’s Table, Milawa All Saints The Terrace, Rutherglen Jones Winery Jones Café, Rutherglen Feathertop Al Fresco Dining, Porepunkah Gapsted Wines Restaurant, Gapsted Dal Zotto Wines Trattoria, Whitfield Gracebrook Vineyard Restaurant,King Valley

rutherglenvic.com • 09

HIGH COUNTRY • COOKING SCHOOLS

• HIGH COUNTRY

COOKING SCHOOLS Turn your holiday into a delicious and rewarding experience by taking home some tips from the region’s finest chefs and cooks.

Gnocchi Rolling

Josie Politini

Bright Legend Patrizia Simone’s seasonally inspired classes will reward you and your loved ones well after your day with this master of Italian cooking. Forage for autumn goodies, learn the art of bread making or prepare an authentic Italian feast.

Truffle Making

simonesbright.com.au

renaissancechocolates.com.au

Salami Secrets

Family Recipes and New Flavours

Spend a day in the beautiful King Valley with Salvatore and Josie Politini as they impart their knowledge and skill of salami making. Home-cooked Italian food and Politini wine will fuel your day of activity and you’ll take home your own salami to impress family and friends. politiniwines.com.au

Enter the world of couverture at Renaissance Chocolates in Rutherglen, where you can learn the art of tempering whilst making truffles or observe the master at work, whilst enjoying a high tea.

Join the dynamic and talented Katrina Pizzini at the cellar door of Pizzini Wines in the King Valley for a pasta, gnocchi and risotto workshop or learn how to bone, stuff and roll a suckling pig, then sit down to indulge in your hard work with a glass of wine. pizzini.com.au

Patrizia Simone

Katrina Pizzini

• 11

HIGH COUNTRY • BREWERY TRAIL

• HIGH COUNTRY

Black Dog Brewery

339 Booth Road Taminick, via Glenrowan 03 5766 2282 www.blackdogbrewery.com.au

Bridge Road Brewers

Old Coach House Ford Street, Beechworth 03 5728 2703 www.bridgeroadbrewers.com.au

Bright Brewery

121 Great Alpine Road Bright 03 5755 1301 www.brightbrewery.com.au

Sweetwater Brewing Company

Extending from the river to the mountains, Victoria’s High Country Brewery Trail weaves a scenic path to some truly lip-smacking, handcrafted beers. Each of the four breweries exudes its own personality and style, just like each of their brews. Taste the difference in our local craft beers, made with passion, the best ingredients and the pristine waters of Victoria’s High Country.

Wangaratta

BRIDGE ROAD Brewers

Taminick

BLACK Glenrowan DOG BREWERY

211 Kiewa Valley Highway Tawonga South 03 5754 1881 www.sweetwaterbrewing.com.au

Milawa

Myrtleford

SWEETWATER BREWING COMPANY King Valley

BRIGHT BREWERY

Bright Brewery

• 13

HIGH COUNTRY • PEDAL TO PRODUCE

• HIGH COUNTRY

PEDAL TO PRODUCE Pedal to Produce includes the renowned food and wine regions of Rutherglen, Beechworth, Glenrowan, Milawa, King Valley, Mansfield, Myrtleford and Bright where you can grab a bike and visit cellar doors, local breweries or drop into a café for a coffee. If you’re hungry you can refuel at one of the many bakeries, restaurants and food producers along the way.

Meet The Locals Simply cycle at your own pace, on a combination of rail trails and quiet country roads, whilst collecting goodies from farm gates, cafés, breweries, cellar doors and providores. Stop to sample wine or local produce and meet the farmer who grew it.

Rail Trails

Bikes with baskets ready to go

Photography: Ewen Bell

With over 250km of safe, scenic, off-road rail trails, including the world-renowned Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, the possibilities are endless. Rides dedicated to food and wine include: Rutherglen to Waghunyah - 18kms return Oxley to Milawa - 10kms return Bright to Porepunka - 16kms return.

These take in excellent offerings of restaurants, wineries, produce and the all important coffee.

For full details on the trails go to: greatvictorianrailtrail.com.au highcountryrailtrail.org.au murraytomountains.com.au

Grab Some Wheels Don’t worry if you didn’t bring your bike.

All major villages in the High Country have bike hire available. Contact the Visitor Information Centre to get details. If you fancy a quick ride around town, Brown Brothers in Milawa and Bridge Road Brewers in Beechworth both have free bikes for a short pedal.

Something Two-Wheeled of a Different Flavour Hero mountain biking tips: thedirtydozen.com.au

Seven of the best alpine road climbs: 7peaks.com.au

The Pedal to Produce cycle trails are marked on the maps within this guide or visit pedaltoproduce.com.au

TOUR DE VINES Phone 0407 229 881 Web Email Open

tourdevines.com.au inquiry@tourdevines.com.au Daily

Gently cycle your way to cellar doors and farm gates, meet new friends on a small group tour, or learn about wines whilst soaking up the scenery, let Tour de Vines guide you from gate to plate.

• 15

HIGH COUNTRY • ALFRESCO ADVENTURES

• HIGH COUNTRY

ALFRESCO ADVENTURES

Play The Grounds Eating outdoors is a great way to keep little foodies engaged. Most towns in the High Country have a park or playground, some by a lake or along a river. Grab snacks from Ginger Baker or Coral Lee and set them free at Bright’s Riverbank Park, pop into the Rustic Café for a takeaway coffee and cake then head to Rocket Playground in Benalla. Or fuel up with goodies from The Produce Store in Mansfield and head to Mirimbah Park at the base of Mount Buller, break out the picnic fare and soak up the fresh air.

The High Country is home to some of the country’s most beautiful natural habitats. Pack a picnic, drop into a farm gate for seasonal supplies or pop into a produce store for locally prepared cheese or freshly smoked meat or trout. Finally, pass by one of the many cellar doors for a delicious bottle to accompany your feast and head off into nature – food always tastes better out of doors.

Canoeing Lake Catani, Mount Buffalo

Keeping the kids busy

Getting Serious The High Country offers an incredible variety of bushwalks. Walk on air 2000m above sea level on the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing, an iconic Australian walk. Be challenged by completing the whole distance over three days or choose a smaller part.

Book food for the trip before you head off through Milch at Falls Creek or Mountain Kitchen at Dinner Plain.

Start or cap off your walk with a night of luxury at a deluxe lodge in Falls Creek, Mt Hotham or Dinner Plain.

Camping platforms can be booked on the way at:

Gourmet Getaways Why not let someone else do the planning and book a guided walking tour. Hedonistic Hiking offers tours for varying fitness levels with guided walks in the wild and remote scenery by day, combined with boutique hotels to ensure extremely comfortable nights and wonderful meals.

HEDONISTIC HIKING Porepunkah

Phone (03) 5755 2307 Web

parkstay.vic.gov.au victoriashighcountry.com.au/nature

hedonistichiking.com

Email info@hedonistichiking.com Open

Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing

Nov - April

Hedonistic Hiking, Roof Top Picnic, The Horn, Mount Buffalo

• 17

HIGH COUNTRY • HIGH COUNTRY HARVEST

• HIGH COUNTRY

Soaking up the sun, Gracebrook Winery

Packing Prosecco, Forges Farm, Oxley

Baking chestnuts, Bogong Horseback Adventures, Mount Beauty

The Sweet Cycle, Rutherglen

A Recipe for Indulgence Mid-May Annually Food lovers are invited to feast and forage their way around Victoria’s bountiful High Country over 10 delectable days in May at the regionwide High Country Harvest celebrations.

Each year the program abounds with intimate hands-on cooking classes from Bright to the King Valley, behind-the-scenes tastings and tours from Rutherglen to Mansfield, unforgettable dining experiences in renowned regional restaurants and more.

In a region where produce and personalities are the heroes, High Country Harvest offers plentiful opportunities to indulge in gourmet food, awardwinning wine and craft beer, while meeting the producers who have not long harvested their autumn spoils. highcountryharvest.com.au

• 19

HIGH COUNTRY • HIGH COUNTRY HARVEST

• HIGH COUNTRY

Sticks and Stones Adventures Yackandandah

• 21

HIGH COUNTRY • INFORMATION

• HIGH COUNTRY

FESTIVALS & EVENTS January

April

May

June

October

Alpine Valleys Wine Picnic

High Country Easter Festival

High Country Harvest

Rutherglen Winery Walkabout

North East Victoria Wine Show

Bright

Join us for a picnic on Saturday, and on Sunday enjoy a range of culinary experiences and entertainment at one of our many wineries and local producers. alpinevalleys.com

March Melbourne Food & Wine Festival

Victoria's High Country The High Country's vibrant culinary culture will flourish in March, with a program of events celebrating the region's bountiful food and wine. melbournefoodandwine.com.au

Picnic in the Park

Dinner Plain Alpine Village Plenty of gourmet High Country food to enjoy served by local cafés and restaurants and entertainment for the kids. visitdinnerplain.com

Upper Goulburn Wine Region Long Lunch Mansfield

Enjoy the food & wine of the Upper Goulburn Wine region at the long table each year for lunch. uppergoulburnwine.org.au

Upper Goulburn Wine Region Vintage Celebrations A Day on High

Myrtleford Join us for a weekend of fun - the Italian way! Over three days there will be opportunities to immerse yourself in Italian culture plus some wonderful food and wine experiences. festival.org.au

Lace up those walking shoes ... it's time to Walkabout! Winery Walkabout is set to once again bring the people of the North East together to celebrate. winemakers.com.au

Trails, Tastings & Tales Glenrowan

Over the course of a weekend visitors can enjoy a range of interesting attractions happening at each winery with plenty of music, entertainment, workshops, local produce and wine appreciation. visitglenrowan.com.au

Myrtleford

July Great Alpine Roast

Dinner Plain Alpine Village Local produce will be intertwined with the gourmet traditional roast dinner. Dinner Plain’s chefs will make this a truly tasty experience with all the trimmings. visitdinnerplain.com

September Annual Golden Olive Awards

A truly local wine show with public tastings and gala dinner. alpinevalleysvignerons.com.au

Glenrowan Winemakers Weekend Glenrowan

'Slow Food from the Producer's Paddock' is a must on Saturday, and on Sunday there will be plenty of tastings and grazing platters to be had as well as a gourmet breakfast, guided tours and cycling. visitglenrowan.com.au

November

Mansfield will come alive! Enjoy the vast range of quality regional wines, food and produce. Meet the makers at the annual Upper Goulburn Vintage Celebration. uppergoulburnwine.org.au

Take time out to sample Italian and international wine varieties and indulge in gourmet food influenced by the region’s distinct Italian culture. winesofthekingvalley.com.au

Rutherglen Wine Show & Australian Fortified Wine Show

Wandiligong Nut Festival Wandiligong

Dinner Plain Food & Wine Festival

Enjoy crisp whites and food friendly reds with delicious offerings including handmade pasta and gnocchi, pizzas, seafood and mouthwatering Italian desserts. Life doesn’t get much sweeter than this! winesofthekingvalley.com.au

A celebration of the local harvest of chestnuts, hazelnuts, walnuts and apples. A great family day out with cooking demos, information sessions, art and more. brightvic.com/wandinutfestival

Wangaratta Festival of Jazz & Blues

Three days of family entertainment, fine food and wine, all within walking distance of each other in Dinner Plain Village. visitdinnerplain.com

The Awards dinner and wine tastings are popular events with entries received from across Australia. rutherglenwineshow.com.au

Join us for an afternoon when the annual Picnic in the Park culinary festival returns for another delicious year. mtbuller.com.au

Choose matched food and wine combinations, exciting culinary experiences and activities at each venue. winemakers.com.au

La Fiera

Rutherglen

King Valley

Mirimbah

Rutherglen

Feast and forage your way around Victoria’s High Country over 10 delectable days. Indulge in food, wine and craft beer, as you meet the producers and winemakers. The program abounds with intimate hands-on cooking classes, behindthe-scenes tastings and tours, unforgettable dining experiences in renowned regional restaurants and more. highcountryharvest.com.au

Awards dinner and celebration presented by the Olive Producers of Northern Victoria. vicolives.com

Mansfield

Tastes of Rutherglen

Victoria's High Country

Weekend Fit for a King

Dinner Plain

Rutherglen

La Dolce Vita King Valley

Wangaratta

Celebrate the long weekend with jazz, blues, food, wine and fun. wangarattajazz.com

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 23

HIGH COUNTRY • INFORMATION

• HIGH COUNTRY

SEASONAL PRODUCE JAN

FEB MAR APR MAY JUN

• •

Almonds Apples Apricots Asparagus Blackberries Blueberries Bok Choy Boysenberries Broccoli Cabbage Capsicum Cauliflower Cherries Chestnuts Eggplant Figs

• • • •

• •

•

•

• • •

•

•

•

•

•

•

• • • • •

• • • • • •

•

•

• •

• •

•

•

• • • • •

•

•

Hazelnuts Kiwi Fruit Lemons/Limes Lettuce Morellos Nectarines Oranges Passionfruit Peaches Persimmons Plums Potatoes Quinces Raspberries Rhubarb Silverbeet Strawberries Tomatoes Walnuts

• • •

• •

• •

• • • • • •

• •

•

•

JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

• • • •

• •

• •

• •

• •

• •

• •

•

•

•

•

•

•

• • • • • • •

• •

•

•

•

• • • •

• • •

•

•

• • • • •

•

•

• •

• •

•

•

• •

• •

• •

• •

• •

• •

• •

•

•

• •

• •

•

•

•

•

• •

• •

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

• •

•

•

•

AVAILABLE YEAR ROUND • Olives, olive oil, mustard, specialty breads, lamb, farmed trout, salmon & Murray cod, fresh herbs, jams, pickles, preserves, pesto, sauces & chutneys as well as locally brewed beer, cordial & wines.

• 25

HIGH COUNTRY • INFORMATION

• HIGH COUNTRY

FARMERS’ MARKETS Plan your next trip to the North East to coincide with a visit to one of our authentic Farmers’ Markets. You’ll find one of our markets operating on any given weekend throughout the year!

Help yourself to the best of our farm fresh produce, meet the growers and taste the seasonality in their foods.

FA

RM

RK

ETS

H EAST RT

A

NO

nefm.com.au

E R S’ M

Beechworth Farmers’ Market

Mansfield Farmers’ Market

Moyhu Farmers’ Market

Rutherglen Farmers’ Market

When: 1st Saturday of the month,

9.00am – 12noon

When: 4th Saturday of the month,

8.30am – 1.00pm

When: 2nd Sunday of the month,

9.00am – 12.30pm

Where: Christ Church, Cnr Church

and Ford Streets, Beechworth

Where: High Street median strip, opposite

the Post Office (not primary school),

Mansfield

When:

Contact: 0408 859 282

rutherglenlamb@gmail.com

nefm.com.au

Contact: 0417 319 879

market@walkerevents.com.au

facebook.com/mansfieldfarmersmarket

instagram.com/mansfieldfarmersmarket

Hume Murray Farmers’ Market

Tolmie Farmers’ Market

When: Every 2nd Saturday,

8.00am – 12noon

When: 3rd Saturday of the month

Spring, Summer and Autumn

8.30am – 1.00pm

Where: Gateway Village,

Lincoln Causeway, Wodonga Contact: 0438 582 996

info@hmfb.org

hmfb.org

Where: Tolmie Sports Ground,

Old Tolmie Road, Tolmie Contact: (03) 5776 2231

nefm.com.au

3rd Saturday of the month, 8.00am – 12noon April market on Easter Saturday & June market on Queen’s Birthday weekend

Where: Moyhu Lions Park, Moyhu Contact: (03) 5727 9301

nefm.com.au

Where: Rutherglen Lions Park, Douglas Street,

Rutherglen Contact:

1800 622 871 info@rutherglenvic.com rutherglenvic.com facebook.com/rutherglenvic twitter.com/rutherglenvic

Bright Market Make it. Bake it. Grow it.

Like us on facebook.com/NEFarmerMarkets

When: 3rd Saturday of the month 9am – 1pm

Follow us on twitter.com/nefm

Where: Howitt Park, Howitt Street, Bright Contact: 0457953586

markets@brightchamber.com.au

facebook.com/brightmarkets

Like us on instagram

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 27

• HIGH COUNTRY

Tolmie Farmers’ Market

Rutherglen Wangaratta Milawa Benalla Violet Town

To Sydney Beechworth Bright

Euroa

Avenel Seymour Broadford Kilmore

Melbourne

• 29

WELCOME • BEECHWORTH

BEECHWORTH Consume the passion

The region is renowned for its chardonnay, shiraz and pinot noir with alternative Italian varietals quickly emerging.

4 3

8 6

72

13

11 5 9

14 12

Beechworth Town Ride Distance: 11km or 17km Ride Surface: Road/Trail Description: Undulating Ride Grade: Intermediate Ride Time: Allow 1½ hrs

1

CYCLE ROUTE RAIL TRAIL

10

1

LOCAL GUIDE pg.37 - 40

Suited to all ages and riding abilities, you can approach this ride to suit your desired experience and available time. With a touch of history, a pinch of bush, plenty of colour and an abundance of what Beechworth is renowned for – food and wine. This ride can be tailored to suit your preference for leisure, sightseeing and sampling, or both.

Also see Stanley map page 42

Visitors who are interested in wine will find an intimate wine culture in Beechworth. Both in wineries with cellar door operations and those by appointment only, you will often be speaking directly with the winemaking or vigneron family.

Long, dry, russet autumns, together with warm, sunny days and cool nights, allow flavour and colour to build, not only in the wine grapes but also in the shiny red apples and other fruits of Stanley and surrounds. The Beechworth region is rich with locally grown produce - fruit, vegetables, honey, nuts and preserves - and excellent restaurants, cafés, bakeries and food and wine retailers to showcase this abundance.

Beechworth is a well-preserved, gold era town. The Historic and Cultural Precinct offers a wonderful glimpse into the town’s rich past, with a museum, parks and gardens and the courthouse where Ned Kelly and his mother were tried. The town is a great place to meander through the charming mix of shops before pausing for a coffee, a snack or a memorable meal.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 31

31

Dotted throughout the mineral-laden hills of Beechworth are two dozen vineyards. They are mostly tended by family winegrowers with a fierce independence and passion for making the best handcrafted wines. Beechworth’s vineyards are sited on ridge tops or hillsides, where the ancient geology is bony, weathered ground with meagre vineyard soils that restrict grape yield to produce concentrated, intense wines.

BEECHWORTH • EXPERIENCES

EXPERIENCES • BEECHWORTH

EXPERIENCES

FOLLOW THE BEES Enjoy a food experience like no other as you pedal around picturesque Beechworth and explore the unique surrounds that produce amazing Australian honey.

Inhale the fresh country air and take in the scenic views as you follow your nose like a honey bee and discover blossom to blossom the amazing flora that gives Beechworth Honey its distinct Australian flavour.

LOCAL BREW Sample quality beers in a tasting paddle at the laidback Bridge Road Brewers, in the heart of Beechworth. At $15 for 10 tastes, beer lovers are able to experience an amazing variety of craft beers, whilst tucking into wood-fired pizza in the large, sunny beer garden.

beechworthhoney.com.au

bridgeroadbrewers.com.au @NakedNed

STANLEY ROAD TRIP Perhaps one of the most beautiful drives in the region; the drive up to Stanley is one of a kind. Visit farm gates in season along the way, where you can pick your own berries in summer or purchase a bag of crunchy, juicy apples from Snowline Fruits in autumn. This stunning road will lead you to The Stanley for a glass of local wine and French bistro-style fare. stanleypub.com.au @thestanleypub

LOCAL SECRETS •

Gather around a table of four or more at the Ox and Hound Bistro, Beechworth each Sunday for family-style dishes that are plated to share. House-made breads, fresh linguini and decadent desserts create a warm, flavoursome dining experience fit for a Sunday.

32 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 33

5 TOP

PRODUCERS • BEECHWORTH

1.

A TASTE OF GAMAY

Fine-wine lovers come savour the flavour of the Sorrenberg style of gamay from the Cellar Door Wine Store. Collect a couple of bottles of gamay to take home and sip the smooth blend of red and black fruits, cherry flavours, with earthy herbal notes.

2.

TAKE ME HOME, HONEY

After sampling some local delights at Beechworth Honey Experience, pack some refreshing, unique sparkling honey nectar in your picnic basket to sip by Lake Sambell or for the family to enjoy at home.

3.

THE LOCAL’S CIDER

Beechworth Cider is a slightly sweet and lightly spritzed cider, made from locally sourced apples, it’s a take home must. Pick some up at Amulet Vineyard.

MOVERS & MAKERS Michael Ryan

Owner/Two Hatted Chef Provenance Restaurant Q. What’s your favourite Beechworth secret?

A. A little hidden park with a stream running through it that my daughter and I love to hang out at, especially in autumn when the leaves are changing.

Q. What would be on the table at your last supper?

A. As long as the food is prepared with care and grace, it doesn’t really matter. What matters is who is at the table with me – family and friends.

Q. What’s your family’s perfect day out?

A. We have many, but the latest is getting up early in the warmer months, driving up to Falls Creek, going for a two-hour walk followed by a picnic lunch, then down to Omeo and on to Mitta Mitta. We stay the night and dine at the Mitta Pub. Q. Where’s your favourite picnic spot?

A. Anywhere on Mount Buffalo.

4.

Q. Which is your favourite season and why?

A. Winter. I love getting up to the snow, love rainy nights and cooking in a kitchen is much better when it’s cooler.

A unique Australian Pilsner brewed in Beechworth from chestnuts grown locally in Beechworth and the Stanley hills, the crisp, clean profile of this pale lager is best paired with light, seafood dishes that will leave you pining for more. Available at Bridge Road Brewers.

Q. Where do you like to go for a walk?

A. Again Mount Buffalo, Ingram’s Rock in Beechworth, the busy streets of Tokyo.

THE AUTUMNAL FLAVOURS OF CHESTNUT PILSNER

5.

CLASSY HOT CHOC

Consider yourself a chocolate connoisseur?

Pop by the Beechworth Provender for some seriously rich, European-style hot chocolate.

Instagram picture + info of your favourite top tip at #seehighcountry.

Q. Beechworth is in a rich heart of local produce. What are some of your favourite farm gates to visit?

A. Snowline Fruits in Stanley, Beechworth Berries.

Provenance Restaurant 86 Ford Street, Beechworth theprovenance.com.au @theprovenance

Photography: Todd Porter & Diane Cu

Take Away Tipples

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 35

Experience Honey

GUIDE • BEECHWORTH

Beechworth 1

AMULET VINEYARD & BEECHWORTH CIDER 1036 Wangaratta Rd

Phone (03) 5727 0420

amuletwines.com.au beechworthcider.com.au Email sales@amuletwines.com.au Open Daily 10am - 5pm Web

2

BEECHWORTH BAKERY 27 Camp St

Phone 1300 233 784

See live bees up close - Taste amazing Australian honey - Enjoy our free honey tour

Web

Open 7 days 9.00am to 5.30 pm

Open

Beechworth Honey Experience. Corner of Ford and Church Streets, Beechworth, Victoria 3747 Phone 02 6033 2322. www.beechworthhoney.com.au

TWO LOCATIONS means DOUBLE the reason to eat, discover and learn.

Daily 6am - 7pm

Corner of Ford and Church St Web

beechworthhoney.com.au

Email info@beechworthhoney.com.au

4

Daily 9am - 5.30pm

87 Ford St

beechworthhoney.com.au

Email info@beechworthhoney.com.au Open

5

Discover the amazing world of Australian Honey. Come to Beechworth and visit the “Beechworth Honey Experience”. See live bees up close, enjoy our free honey tour, taste amazing Australian honey, and experience our passion.

BEECHWORTH HONEY DISCOVERY

Phone (02) 6033 2322 Web

Beechworth Bakery offers an exciting range of freshly made sandwiches, wraps & rolls, cakes, pastries, pies & all-day breakfast options, not to mention coffee and a delightful atmosphere. We’re open every day for breakfast, lunches, snacks and early dinners.

BEECHWORTH HONEY EXPERIENCE

Phone (02) 6033 2322

Open

Discover Honey

beechworthbakery.com.au

Email enquiries@beechworthbakery.com.au

3

Drive in and discover one of Beechworth’s best kept secrets. Great wines from Italian varieties and the home of Beechworth Cider.

Modern cellar door and function venue with stunning views. Perfect for weekend lunches, weddings, bus and group bookings.

Daily 9am - 5:30pm

Explore the Beechworth Honey Discovery where you can enjoy a food experience like no other. Taste your way through our Honey Mead Cellar Door and Hive Kitchen, get hands on in an interactive workshop and wander through the bee garden to discover the vital link between bees and the food we eat.

BEECHWORTH PROVENDER 18 Camp St

Phone (03) 5728 2650

Sip on delicious honey mead - Sample amazing food pollinated by honey bees Wander through the bee garden - Enjoy hands on workshops Open 7 days 9.00am to 5.30 pm Beechworth Honey Discovery. 87 Ford Street, Beechworth, Victoria 3747 Phone 02 6033 2322. www.beechworthhoney.com.au

beechworthprovender.com.au Email info@beechworthprovender Open Daily 8am - 5.30pm Web

In our 22nd year proudly showcasing quality local wines and produce. The Age Good Food Guide. Selected Coffee blends, beans and decadent treats. Family friendly courtyard. Regular Wine tastings and now serving selected local wines by the glass.

Join us for “The Provender Experience” VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 37

BEECHWORTH • GUIDE

GUIDE • BEECHWORTH

Beechworth 6

BRIDGE ROAD BREWERS Old Coach House, Ford St

Phone (03) 5728 2703

bridgeroadbrewers.com.au Email info@bridgeroadbrewers.com.au Open Mon - Wed 11am - 4pm Thurs 11am - 5pm Fri - Sun 11am - 10pm Web

7

Phone (03) 5728 2882 Web

cellardoorwinestore.com.au

Email cellardoorwinestore@gmail.com Open

8 Bridge Road Brewers boasts some of the best craft beer in Australia. The brewey, the bar and its pizza kitchen are all located in a 150 year old Coach House and stables. The Brewery is hidden down a laneway leading off Ford Street, between Tanswells Hotel and the Golden Era service station, in the heart of picturesque Beechworth.

CELLAR DOOR WINE STORE 62 Ford St

Mon 9am - 3pm Wed, Thurs & Sun 9am - 5pm Fri 9am - late, Sat 9am - 8pm

Beechworth

69 Ford St

Phone (03) 5728 2575 Web

gigisofbeechworth.com

Email info@gigisofbeechworth.com Open

9 Cellar Door Wine Store is a boutique retailer and wine bar with an emphasis on the smaller wineries of North East Victoria in addition to a unique global wine selection and craft beers. We serve a selection of dishes to complement the wine as great espresso.

GIGI’S OF BEECHWORTH

Daily 9am - 2.30pm, 6pm - late (Closed Wed, Thur & Sun Dinner)

HOTEL NICHOLAS 1a Camp Street

Phone (03) 5728 1051 Web

hotelnicholas.com.au

Email info@hotelnicholas.com.au Open

Daily 11am - 1am

10

PENNYWEIGHT WINERY 13 Pennyweight Lane

Phone (03) 5728 1747 Web

pennyweight.com.au

Email contact@pennyweight.com.au Open

11

Owner Allan Parker loves foraging local hills for mushrooms, berries and nuts; and sourcing wine, cheese, meat, fruit and vegetables from local producers. At Gigi’s they roast their own coffee, make their own butter and bake their own sourdough. “This love of local bounty is balanced with inspiration from the kitchens of southern Europe.” The Age Good Food Guide.

Gigi’s extensive wine list has been awarded a wine glass by Gourmet Traveller.

Daily

The Hotel Nicholas captures Beechworth’s past.

Quality meals featuring traditional recipes of a bygone era, craft beer, local wines and cider are available in the Gallery Dining Room, Cellar, Courtyard and on the Balcony, which serves Thai Cuisine. Stay in our Art Deco accommodation.

Pennyweight is a small unique traditional vineyard & winery. Owned & operated by 4th and 5th generation Morris family winemakers. Pennyweight comprises two certified biodynamic dryland vineyards covering two wine regions making a range of table and fortified wines.

PROVENANCE RESTAURANT & ACCOMMODATION 86 Ford St

Phone (03) 5728 1786

theprovenance.com.au Email info@theprovenance.com.au Open Wed - Sun 6.30pm - late Web

12

SO SIMPLE CAFÉ 72 Ford St

Phone (03) 5728 1881 Email bettina.molinaro@ymail.com Open

38 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

Provenance is a two chef’s hat restaurant with a focus on contemporary regional cuisine.

With its boutique luxury accommodation it is an ideal location to base yourself to expolore all that North East Victoria has to offer.

Mon - Sat 6.30am - 4.00pm Sunday open on festival weekends.

So Simple Cafe & Catering uses local produce to create big tastes and amazing experiences. With an all day breakfast menu, ever changing specials and great coffee.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 39

BEECHWORTH • GUIDE

GUIDE • BEECHWORTH

Beechworth 13

TANSWELL’S COMMERCIAL HOTEL 50 Ford St

Phone (03) 5728 1480

tanswellshotelbeechworth.com.au Open Mon - Sat 11am - 1.00am Sun 11am - 11am Web

14

Phone (03) 5728 2123 Web

oxandhound.com.au

Email info@oxandhound.com.au Open

18

Fri - Sun lunch: 12.00pm Thurs - Mon dinner: 6.00pm

The Ox and Hound Bistro occupies a quintessential Beechworth shopfront. The menu, mostly French and Italian, features classic dishes with a focus on local produce.

An affordable wine list, personable service and an inviting dining room combine to create this local treasure.

Byawatha 15

208 Shannon Rd

mtpilotestatewines.com.au

Email info@mtpilotestatewines.com.au Open

Phone (03) 5728 6584 Email snowlinefruits1@bigpond.com Open

Daily 9am - 5pm

19

THE STANLEY

6-12 Myrtleford Stanley Rd Phone (03) 5728 6502 Web Open

thestanley.com.au info@thestanley.com.au Thurs - Sun lunch from 12pm.

Wed - Sat Dinner fom 6pm.

Wed Bar 4pm - 11pm, Thurs - Sun from 11am - 11pm.

Accommodation 7 days a week.

A family owned and operated business with modern medium density and world class orchards. Our orchards are constantly changing with many different varieties of tree-ripened apples including Pink Lady and Sundowner. Orchard tours available.

The Stanley offers a modern European menu focused on seasonal and local produce, an impressive wine list featuring both local and international wines. Two accommodation rooms offer luxurious country charm … just 10 km up the hill from Beechworth.

MT PILOT ESTATE

Phone 0419 243 225 Web

SNOWLINE FRUITS

507 Myrtleford Stanley Rd Tanswell’s Commercial Hotel (1853) situated in the heart of Beechworth, opens up into a timeless front bar with an open fire, interesting ales, a full top shelf and an extensive wine list that complements the great food coming from the hotels kitchen.

THE OX AND HOUND BISTRO 52 Ford St

Stanley

by appointment

Mt Pilot is a small family owned, award winning, boutique business that is commited to producing premium qality wines. The vineyard is managed to produce low yields, a minimal water regime ensures intense flavour and colour. Wine varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Durif & Viognier.

Everton Upper 16

INDIGO VINEYARD

1221 Beechworth Wangaratta Rd Phone (03) 5727 0233 Web

indigovineyard.com.au

Email emails@indigovineyard.com.au Open

Wed - Sun 11am - 4pm

Halliday 5 Star Rated winery providing a special wine tasting experience. Chosen as one of the Top Ten Dark Horse wineries from the thousands in Australia for 2014.

Chardonnay and Pinot are our speciality.

Come visit!

Stanley 17

SINCLAIR ORCHARDS

Beechworth Rd (Cnr Myrtleford Stanley Rd) Phone (03) 5728 6662 Email sinclairapples@bigpond.com Open

Daily 9am - 5pm (Cider sales Sun or by appointment)

A family owned and operated orchard, specialising in apples, pears, chestnuts and cherries and the home of St Clair Cider.

Purchase seasonal fruit & cider from our sales outlet in the centre of the Stanley Township.

40 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 41

• BEECHWORTH

15

1 16

17

19 18

Stanley Drive Distance: 19 km Ride Surface: Road

1

CYCLE TRAIL RAIL TRAIL

1

LOCAL GUIDE pg.37 - 40

Hop in your car for the picturesque drive up the 9 kilometre hill to the eclectic township of Stanley. This drive boasts some of the regions most superb Autumn colour, breathtaking vistas, as well as apple, nut and olive orchards that span the hills.

Beechworth Township Post Office

• 43

Broken Riv er

8

WELCOME • BENALLA

to Thoona

ACK

BENALLA

5

AV E E R LY

MIDL

3

Art, food, fitness and fun

AND HW Y

LA

KE

M I TC

BE NA

WA

HELL

LLA

LKI TRA

ST

NG CK

CHUR

CH ST

ST IDG

to Tatong

Lake Benalla Bridge

RD

G

WEDG

BR

4 NER DR FAW C K

ON

Botani cal Gardens

T ES

TAT

Benalla Art Gallery 1

E ST

7

Lake Ben al l a AN MIDL

D HW

bridge

6

Y

Lakeside Ride

to Melbourne

Jaycee Island

L S T

ke

NDE

Bro

ARU

TOWER RD

PA R K

r ive nR

Little Casey Island

VIEW

Big Casey Island

1

LOCAL GUIDE pg.50- 51

B

CYCLE ROUTE

ro

k

Riv en

er 0

100 m

PDE

H ollands Ck

Link Island

1

The Benalla Art Gallery presents an exhibition program of Australian and international art, and the permanent collection includes outstanding Indigenous and contemporary Australian artworks.

The gallery is set on Lake Benalla, a perfect picnic or resting stop, bounded by an easy 4.8km walking and cycling path that meanders through the meticulous Benalla Botanical Gardens, natural bush land, and an Indigenous Community Garden.

LL A-

Benalla

2

BENA

ST

DEL

MAIR

ARUN

D

EAS ST

Distance: 4.25km Ride Surface: Bike/Walking path Description: Flat Ride Grade: Beginner Ride Time: 30 min

This gentle ride meanders around the lake’s shore, with plenty of idyllic spots for a picnic. You will pass the Indigenous Community Garden, the Benalla Art Gallery and the Benalla Botanical Gardens. Keep an eye out for the rakali, a native water-rat and echidnas. At dusk you may even glimpse a platypus or a sugar glider. Pick up a map at the Visitor Information Centre for the best viewing spots.

Benalla is in Ned Kelly country, with historic memorabilia, costumes and artifacts at the Museum and other points throughout the town. The nearby Winton Wetlands, the largest wetland restoration project in the southern hemisphere provides a stunning location to explore more than 3000 hectares featuring red gums, grasslands and spectacular bird life.

Regional produce and wines are on offer at the Tatong Tavern and the Thoona, Goorambat and Devenish pubs. Gather your information from the Benalla Visitor Information Centre, base yourself at one of the bakeries, cafés, hotels or parks, enjoy coffee and cake and take the time to plan your Benalla adventure or just let the adventure unfold.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 45

45

Benalla is ideally situated two hours north of Melbourne. With a mild climate and increasingly sophisticated food producers, Benalla offers a delightful food lover’s diversion, from restaurants, hotels and wineries, to paddock-to-plate experiences such as that offered by Hook and Spoon in Carrier Street.

BENALLA • EXPERIENCES

EXPERIENCES • BENALLA

EXPERIENCES

STOCK UP AND TAKE A STROLL Benalla is the perfect place to have a break from the car and enjoy the delights of the area. Stock up on local produce at the gateway to the High Country, refuel with coffee and Spanish-style doughnuts at the Main Street Café and take a walk around serene Lake Benalla and the beautiful Botanical Gardens.

Benalla prides itself on warm and welcoming laidback country hospitality, with anything you may have forgotten back home at your fingertips.

BEER AND CHEER

ART, COFFEE AND CAKE Marvel at the work of Sidney Nolan, Albert Tucker, Jeffrey Smart and more at Benalla Art Gallery. Renowned for both permanent and travelling exhibitions, the gallery brings a good dose of art and culture to its visitors. Overlooking the beauty that is Lake Benalla, sit down at the café for coffee and cake after wandering around the gallery spaces. benallaartgallery.com Benalla gallery cafe

46 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

Hop on your bike and pedal the tree-lined path to the charming Tatong Tavern. Satisfy your worked up appetite with a classic chicken parmigiana and a cold glass of local brew. The sun-drenched beer garden is perfect for those warm afternoons, while the vintage interior provides a cosy escape from the cold. tatongtavern.com

LOCAL SECRETS • Tucked up towards the railway line, the North Eastern Hotel offers a menu favourite of confit duck on wild mushroom risotto. Perfect with a glass of Kooyonga Creek merlot.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 47

PRODUCERS • BENALLA

MOVERS & MAKERS Sandy Leatham

Owner Hook and Spoon and pig farmer Q. What is it that attracted you to farming in this region?

A. The hills! I’ve observed that there are flat-land dwellers and there are hill dwellers. I’m definitely a hill dweller and maybe that began in my native state of Tasmania – as there are certainly lots of hills there. Also from a healthy farming perspective, I love hills. You have a lot less calving problems if your cows and heifers run on hill paddocks while pregnant.

Q. You use Berkshire pigs, what’s special about this breed?

A. We all love a good fat-streaked belly – and the BEST belly to have is Berkshire! You’ll hear that from a lot of enthusiastic pork cooks. Berkshire are classed as ‘rare-breed’ pigs, so it’s great to be part of the chain which will make sure this breed does not become extinct. Also, when they are run free range, they are so much more succulent than commercially raised pork – no comparison at all!

Q. What attracts you to Farmers’ Markets?

A. As a cook I like to be able to talk with the producer of my food. I love that I can appreciate (and pass on to my fellow diners or customers) any difficulties the farmer may have had or else the current abundance of a particular food, and not just take for granted what we are eating. And for me, when on the other side of the table, I love that my customers at Farmers’ Markets have thought about how they want to feed their families and ‘grill’ me on how I’ve produced my products. I feel very proud of my produce so am very happy to talk about it to anyone who’s interested.

Q. What are your favourite Farmers’ Markets and why?

A. Mansfield Farmers’ Market is a ripper! It’s well run, with a diverse range of producers and has a really happy atmosphere. I also attend Collingwood and Gasworks Farmers’ Markets in Melbourne and they each have their own personality and I enjoy them both very much.

Q. You have young grandchildren, what would you like to do with them on a day out?

A. Some of my Tassie grandkids are coming to visit next month. We’ll ride bikes around Lake Benalla and marvel at the mural – the little ones love it in particular, but we all do. I’ll be taking them into the hills to fish for trout – knowing that if we don’t have ‘luck’ we will be able to go to the trout farm at Harrietville and see lots of trout of all different sizes and boost our chances of catching our own to then cook for lunch. Perfect! Then there is a lion at the Mansfield Zoo ... !!

A. What would be on the table at your last supper?

A. Oh dear, that would have to be a large table. I’d like to graze through so many dishes. I’d probably start with sourdough and garlic aioli, nibble at some charcuterie which would have to include Berkshire pork rillets, then very crunchy carrot sticks and slowroasted vine-ripened tomatoes, slow roasted button mushrooms, Berkshire pork belly, Milawa chicken thigh roasted on the bone, slither of Hook and Spoon roasted grass-fed, dry-aged Angus scotch, drizzled with reduced pan juices, a Tassie pink eye potato, smashed then smothered in Myrtleford butter, fresh corn on the cob, roasted Jap pumpkin, a big bowl of wilted spinach with more garlic and more butter, maybe a small serve of green grilled yabbies, and I’d love a slice of pumpkin honey pie followed by a serve of Gundowring licorice ice cream and a macchiato. Or if I can’t do all that then I’d love a whole pomegranate, eaten slowly and with delight at every little noise and every explosion of flavour.

That’s me, but the obvious question has to be ... what on earth could I have done to be deserving a “last supper”?

Q. What’s your family’s perfect day out?

A. Matter of fact we just had one! We rode our push bikes from Myrtleford to Bright, through autumn leaves, had wonderful coffee at Ginger Baker and heard some amazing music coming from further up the river so we rode a couple of hundred metres to the music bowl and listened to a brass band for an hour or so, then viewed the annual art exhibition, had amazing lunch in a quaint retro café called Coral Lee, and peddled home!

Q. What would be your favourite things to take on a picnic?

A. Carrots. They travel well! They are my very favourite, as long as they are home grown – or else bought from a farmers’ market. And some pork rillets to dip them into, or sourdough and one of the wonderful local cheeses. Apples or whatever fruit is in season. I like to keep it simple to emphasise each item – not try to have a five course meal – it’s a picnic after all … you’re there for the outdoor "décor" and conversation.

Hook and Spoon 16B Carrier Street, Benalla hookandspoon.com.au @Hook and Spoon VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 49

BENALLA • GUIDE

GUIDE • BENALLA

Benalla 1

BENALLA GALLERY CAFÉ Bridge St

Phone (03) 5762 3777 Web Open

benallaartgallery.com Daily 9am - 4pm

Moorngag 6

Food wine and art the Benalla Gallery Café is the perfect spot to enjyoy this world. Situated within the Benalla Art Gallery the Gallery Café is where food, wine and art can be found and enjoyed. Sit on the deck overlooking Lake Benalla and soak in the atmoshere with good friends. The Gallery Café also has a great range of local produce for purchase.

KOOYONGA CREEK WINES 2369 Samaria Rd

Phone (03) 5768 2477

kooyongacreek.com.au Email accounts@kooyongacreek.com.au Open Fri - Sun 11am - 5pm Web

Kooyonga Creek Wines and Cellar Door is a family owned winery producing a range of boutique wines from estate vines. Groups and wine tours by appointment. Watch our website for events during the year.

Tatong 2

BERTALLI’S ALPINE BREADS 51 Bridge St

Phone (03) 5775 2007 Web Open

alpinebreads.com.au Mon - Fri 6 am - 5.30 pm Sat Sun 6 am - 5 pm

7 Bertalli’s Alpine Breads is an award winning traditional sourdough family bakery producing some of the best artisan and specialist breads in Australia. Baking sourdough bread for four generations. We live for quality and don’t take shortcuts.Enjoy our café experience in the heart of Benalla.2014 Victorian Baking Show gold medal for the best vanilla slice.

TATONG TAVERN

2581 Benalla-Tatong Rd Phone (03) 5767 2210 Web

tatongtavern.com

Email tatongtavern@clearmail.com.au Open

Tues 3pm - late Wed - Sat from 11am lunch & dinner Sun 11am - 6pm lunch only

The Tatong Tavern is an English Style Country Inn situated in Tatong only 25 km drive or ride from Benalla. It’s the perfect place to stay, perfectly positioned to enjoy local activities such as bushwalking and cycling. There are spacious grounds and a delightful beer garden set amongst mature gum trees that ensure shaded seating during the endless summer sunshine.

Thoona 3

HOOK AND SPOON 16B Carrier St

Phone (03) 5762 2044 Web

hookandspoon.com.au

Email sandy@hookandspoon.com.au Open

4

Mon- Fri 9:00 - 5:30 Sat 9:00 - 1:00

Phone (03) 5762 4686 Email julie@rustik.net.au

5

Mon-Sat 8am til late Sun 9am til 5pm.

59 Sargeant St

Phone (03) 5765 2224 Email thoonahotel@internode.on.net Open

Mon-Sat 11am til late Sun 11am - 6pm

Nestled at the foot of the Warby Ranges the Thoona Pub was officiallly opened in March 1884 as the “Commercial Hotel”. It burned down in 1896 and was rebuilt the same year.

Today, it’s owned by Daniel and Jodie Wells and her parents Robert and Scoop Humphries, second generation sheep farmers from Bumgeet.

All ingredients are sourced from local small businesses in the North East and cooked fresh at the Pub by the owners.

A rustic style cafe and wine bar that is about showcasing local produce from the North East and Yarra Valley regions. The atmosphere at Rustik is to be enjoyed with family, friends and romantics. Sit and discuss or find a friend in a good book, great coffee and food will make the Rustic experience more enjoyable. Come in and say hello to Julie, Ida and the team, you will be most welcome.

THE NORTH EASTERN HOTEL 1 Nunn St

Phone (03) 5762 7333 Open

Hook and Spoon is a specialist paddock to plate butchery and slow cooking kitchen, based in Benalla. Beautiful aged home farmed meats, homemade pies and sausages make the butchery a must stop destination for your visit to the North East.

THE THOONA PUB

RUSTIK CAFE & WINE BAR 28 Bridge St

Open

8

Wed - Sat lunch Sun open by arrangment

With linen covered tables and leather couches around the open fires the North Eastern Hotel has a very warm and welcoming ambience.

Owners, Tony and Helen Ashton have worked with such industry icons as Stephanie Alexander and Peter Rowland, resulting in a passion for great produce, simple & flavoursome food combined with warm, friendly & efficient service.

50 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

Max’s Paddock, Tatong VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 51

BENALLA •

52 •

Benalla Art Gallery on Lake Benalla

• 53

H

E UM

Mur ray Wodonga

FWY

R iver

NSW VIC

WELCOME • BRIGHT & SURROUNDS

Ki

ew

Lake Hume

a

BRIGHT & SURROUNDS

Ri ve

r

C H I LT E R N - M T P I L O T N AT I O N A L PA R K

Tallangatta

Huon

LLEY HW Y HAPPY VA

Kiewa

BEECHWORTH WODONGA RD

Wooragee

Yackandandah

i

OM

GUNDOWRING RD

EO HW

Beechworth

Colour all year round

KERGUNYAH RD

Kergunyah 15

Y

12 Gundowring

Dederang

Upper Gundowring

SCHLAPP RD

Gapsted

Running Creek

HAPPY VALLEY RD

16 PRINCE ST

Myrtleford

Rosewhite Ovens Happy Valley

KIE

17

WA

VA

Buff

er

Bu

ck

lan

dR iv

20

Bright

Wandiligong

BUCKLAND VALLEY RD

Smoko

Riv

er

GREAT ALPINE RD Harrietville 14 13

I

0 2 4 km

P RD

Tawonga

22

Buckland

alo

V

GA GA TA W O N

Y

19

HW

M O U N T B U F FA L O N AT I O N A L PA R K

3 1 2 5 4 21 Porepunkah 7 8 6

Y

18

MOUNT BUFFALO RD

Lake Buffalo

LLE

Eurobin

BUFFALO RIVER RD

Myrtleford to Gapsted Ride

Coral Bank

C T O R I

A

ALPINE N AT I O N A L PA R K G R E AT

23

Mount Beauty

BOGONG HIGH PLAINS RD

9 10 Falls Creek

Mount Feather top ALPINE N AT I O N A L PA R K

CYCLE Mount ROUTE Hotham RAIL TRAIL Dinner Plain ANGE R G N I LOCAL GUIDE pg.60- 64 D I V1I D

Distance: 6.7kms Ride Surface: Rail Trail Description: Undulating Ride Grade: Beginner Ride Time: 1 hour each way with time for photos and lunch.

Start in the township of Myrtleford and explore by following Lewis Avenue, then turn down Apex Lane, cross the bridge and follow the river. Stop at the historic Kilns in the Rotary park for a great photo opportunity before passing under the road and heading out along the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail to Gapsted Winery. Leave the trail and climb up through the vineyard and manicured lawns to the cellar door and possibly a lunch or coffee stop before riding back to Myrtleford.

Post-war Italian settlement brought chestnuts, tobacco and the seeds of a dynamic food culture to the region. Today the continental climate supports a huge range of agricultural enterprises from deer, trout and berry farms to nut groves and apple orchards. Eating nooks abound from cosy cafés to “hatted” restaurants.

The long, moderate growing conditions produce high quality grapes with intense fruit flavours and natural acidity, the perfect cool-climate wine.

Following a trail of friendly cellar doors, visitors can experience the rich velvety reds, crisp elegant whites and sensational sparkling wines grown and made in these pristine mountain valleys.

From the kaleidoscopic colours of autumn and the tender green tips of spring, to white winter peaks and the blue skies of summer, the Bright and surrounds region is an expression of colour, vibrancy and flavour.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 55

55

11

YACKANDANDAH MYRTLEFORD RD

Stanley

RAIL TRAIL

Breathtaking landscapes, premium cool-climate wines, a colourful food culture and striking seasonal contrasts distinguish Bright and surrounds.

Stretching from the snowfields of Falls Creek, Mount Buffalo and Mount Hotham, along the Kiewa and Ovens Rivers, and dotted with the vibrant townships of Bright, Myrtleford, Mount Beauty and Harrietville, the region offers a myriad of opportunities for travellers. Extensive stretches of National Park provide a playground for adventurers, and the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail is a delightful way for cyclists and walkers to enjoy the alpine country.

BRIGHT & SURROUNDS • EXPERIENCES

EXPERIENCES • BRIGHT & SURROUNDS

EXPERIENCES

CHOCOLATE FOR CONNOISSEURS Inhale the aromas of the finest single origin chocolates at Bright Chocolate. Enjoy tasting ethically-sourced hand-harvested single-origin cacao while learning more about the journey from bean to bar. The best part is, you can take home your favourites – from chocolate lollypops for the kids to kaffir lime ganache in dark chocolate for those after something a little more decadent.

RAIL TRAIL TREATS Pedal along the flat, easy Murray to Mountains Rail Trail from Bright to Porepunkah, while taking in spectacular mountain views along the way. Your morning coffee is waiting at the Rail Trail Café, where you can visit the cycle-through coffee bar for a quick espresso. Continue your journey along the dirt track to Ringer Reef Winery and treat yourself to a wine tasting and homemade bread fresh from the oven. Select a bottle and some gourmet deli items at your next stop, Feathertop Winery, and sit on the terrace while overlooking Mount Buffalo. Return journey 20kms.

brightchocolate.com.au

murraytomountains.com.au

EXOTIC FOOD AND WARES A treasure trove of twinkling Moroccan lanterns, silver teapots and colourful woven cushions, Café Fez is the perfect stop for baklava and to taste the range of teas. Explore the store for clothing, design and homeware pieces scoured from trips to China, Morocco and India. redramia.com.au

56 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

LOCAL SECRETS • Enjoy a little slice of Scandinavia when you stop for lunch at Svamisk’s Café Skafferi in Mount Beauty. Tuck into meatballs, herring and plenty of Swedish takes on local award-winning produce and wine, while enjoying the cleverly designed space and breathtaking surrounds. svarmisk.com.au

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 57

5 TOP

EXPERIENCES • BRIGHT & SURROUNDS

Walk and Feast

1.

GONE FISHING

Take the scenic Harrietville Gorge walk to the trout farm to catch your dinner. Catch a fish, feed the fish or take a stroll around the breeding ponds set on 19 acres of peace and quiet.

2.

DOWN BY THE RIVER

The Bright Canyon walk leads you past a small canyon carved by early miners and the beautiful Ovens River. Take in the beauty riverside before making your way to Ginger Baker for great coffee, cakes and meals made with love in a garden setting.

3.

MOUNT BEAUTY TO THE BREWERY

Take in the lovely views while strolling around the pond at Mount Beauty, before quenching your thirst at Sweetwater Brewery with a cool glass of craft beer.

4.

SUN BATHING BY THE FALLS

Stop by Coral Lee in Bright for coffee and cake before exploring beautiful Mount Buffalo. Enjoy the sound of water falling at Ladies Bath Falls, where hours of sunbathing and countless photo opportunities await.

5.

PICNIC WITH A VIEW

Milch Cafe at Falls Creek will arrange a picnic lunch to be collected the next day and enjoyed with views of Mount Bogong while taking a break from the breathtaking Wallace Heritage Trail. Finish the perfect adventure by watching the sun set over the day at Wallace’s Hut. For more information on all there is to do visit: brightandsurrounds.com.au

Instagram picture + info of your favourite top tip at #seehighcountry.

MOVERS & MAKERS

Hamish Nugent & Rachel Reed Owner/chefs, Tani Eat & Drink 2013 The Age Good Food Guide Best Regional New Restaurant

Q. What inspired you to open a restaurant in Bright?

A. The seasons, the produce and the river. North East Victoria has all four seasons: in autumn you get to see all the leaves change, mushrooms pop up everywhere and there are fresh nuts; in winter it snows in nearby mountains; in spring everything starts to come alive again, with edibles growing everywhere; and in summer there are berries and great swimming holes.

Q. Your food features plenty of local produce, tell us some of your favourites?

A. We try not to have favourites as they’re all unique in their own way and season. The Harrietville Trout Farm is always supplying a really consistent product that stands out. Our region is plentiful with small-scale farming, producing ingredients such as olives and olive oil, hazelnuts, walnuts, fruit, vegetables, poultry and meat. It’s not a matter of using them because they’re local; their products simply stand out from the others. The nuts are far superior than mass-produced and imported products, for example.

Q. What inspires your menu?

A. With each dish comes a different inspiration but overall it is the natural environment that we live in – the “Alpine Valley” inspires us. Our techniques are a mixture of old and modern, drawing inspiration from Japan with a western approach for an outcome that’s not overworked or overcomplicated.

Q. What would be on the table at your last supper?

A. Hamish - tonkotsu ramen, Rachel - sansai soba, with plenty of sake and beer. Why? If it’s our last supper something bad is obviously about to happen so we might as well go down merry.

Q. Which local/regional wines would you recommend for ...

A. ... fresh goat’s curd, candied olives, nasturtium, grains, seeds and raw honey? Pfeiffer ‘Seriously Fine’ Pale Dry Apera has a nice savouriness to it complementing the olives and almonds. It also shows fresh apple, which complements the cheese and honey.

Tani Eat & Drink 100 Gavan Street, Bright tanieatdrink.com.au @tanieatdrink

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 59

BRIGHT & SURROUNDS • GUIDE

GUIDE • BRIGHT & SURROUNDS

Bright 1

BRIGHT BREWERY 121 Great Alpine Rd

Phone (03) 5755 1301 web

brightbrewery.com.au

Email info@brightbrewery.com.au Open Daily 11am

2

Phone (03) 5750 1235 Web

brightchocolate.com.au

Email info@brightchocolate.com.au Open

3

6 Bright Brewery crafts award-winning beer by the Ovens River, right in the heart of Bright.

Relax with a beer or local wine and a meal.

Tours Friday, Saturday & Monday. Live music Sundays. Brewer For A Day each month.

Free Wifi.

BRIGHT CHOCOLATE FACTORY & STORE 8/3 Riverside Ave

Daily 10am-5pm

Discover small batch chocolate making from bean to bar using ethically sourced single origin cacao beans. Enjoy a hot chocolate or cacao herbal Tea with a Bright Fancy while watching craft chocolate being made before your eyes.

BRIGHT MARKETS. MAKE IT. BAKE IT. GROW IT. Howitt Park by the Ovens River

brightvictoria.com.au Email markets@brightchamber.com.au Open Third Saturday of the month 9am-1pm Web

Bright

Bright Markets showcase only the best local produce and products, and has grown to include over 50 local stall holders. The market also provides live entertainment and children’s activities all contributing to a vibrant atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

SIMONES RESTAURANT AND COOKING SCHOOL 98 Gavan St

Phone (03) 5755 2266 Web

simonesbright.com.au

Email simones@simonesbright.com.au Open

7

Restaurant Tue - Sat from 6.30pm Cooking School Sat - Sun 10.30am - 2.30pm

TANI EAT & DRINK 100 Gavan St

Phone (03) 5750 1304 Web

tanieatdrink.com.au

Email info@tanieatdrink.com.au Open

8

The seasonal menu at Simone’s Restaurant draws on the dishes of chef and co-owner Patrizia’s native town Perugia in Umbria (Italy), combined with the bountiful produce of the Alpine Valleys.

Wed, Thur & Sun 6pm Fri, Sat 4pm Extended operating hours in peak periods

Tani Eat & Drink offers many dining options, a contemporary provincial restaurant and an informal eatery/bar. There is a strong emphasis on Victorian produce throughout the menu.

Experience Tani’s relaxed atmosphere with a diverse range of beverages such as craft beer, sake, umeshu and wine. New Regional Restaurant Of The Year - The Age Good Food Guide 2014.

THIRTEEN STEPS BISTRO/WINE BAR 14 Barnard St

Phone (03) 5750 1313 Web thirteensteps.com.au Email dine@thirteensteps.com.au Open Thurs - Mon 6pm till late

Season changes, check website

Thirteensteps is an iconic restaurant that combines underground Bohemia with exceptional hospitality. The menu is witty & artfully plated, the wine list is comprehensive & enthusiastic towards local producers, the room is luxurious. Make your way thirteen steps down & you will find a rare space that invites you to dine & wine.

Falls Creek 4

CORAL LEE

8 Barnard St

Phone (03) 5755 5113 email misscorallee@gmail.com Open

5

Mon - Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm Sun 8.30am - 4pm Holidays Daily 8am - 5pm

Step back in time when you visit Coral Lee. Enjoy old fashioned service with a smile in a 1950’s inspired café. Modern food, handmade on premises utilising local produce. Fair Trade coffee locally roasted.

Sun filled courtyard. Catering and special occasion cakes.

GINGER BAKER 127 Gavin St

Phone (03) 5755 2300

gingerbakerwinebar.com.au Email gingerbaker1@bigpond.com Open Sun-Wed 8am - 3pm Thurs-Sat 8am - 9pm Web

9

4 Schuss St

Phone (03) 5758 3407 Web

60 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

fvfallscreek.com.au/milchcafe.php

Email milchcafebar@gmail.com Open

10 Breakfast and lunch seven days. Dinner Thurs - Sat. Stunning location, beautiful food. A must when in Bright.

MILCH CAFE & BAR

Summer Holidays: 7 days BLD Winter: 7 days, BLD Dec: Fri- Mon 5pm-Close Feb- May Fri- Mon 5pm Open for group bookings and coffee by request

SUMMIT RIDGE ALPINE LODGE 8 Schuss St

Phone (03) 5758 3800 Web

summitridge.com.au

Email ski@summitridge.com.au Open

Milch café & bar is cosy and comfortable.

With excellent coffee and gorgeous homemade treats to fix any sugar hit. Eating is a casual and relaxed affair. We pride ourselves on finding local produce and our meat is straight from the farm. Enjoy our share menu, yummy desserts and our boutique wine list. Cycle and family friendly.

Summit Ridge Alpine Lodge is a hotel type ski accommodation with an award winning restaurant open to the general public.

Bookings recommended.

Mon - Sun 6pm - 10pm

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 61

BRIGHT & SURROUNDS • GUIDE

GUIDE • BRIGHT & SURROUNDS

Myrtleford

Gapsted 11

GAPSTED WINES

3897 Great Alpine Rd

Phone (03) 5751 1383

gapstedwines.com.au Email cellardoor@gapstedwines.com.au Open Daily 10am - 5pm Web

16 Taste, eat, smile, relax & discover the difference of Gapsted Wines. A seasonal a la carte menu, espresso coffee, and wine tasting of classic and rare varieties including Petit Manseng and Saperavi are available everyday. Take in the alpine air and stunning sweeping views across the Alpine Valley.

BASTONI PIZZERIA Great Alpine Rd

Phone (03) 5751 1478 Open

bastoni.pizzeria@gmail.com Wed - Sun lunch and dinner

17

CAFÉ FEZ

Email

Bastoni offers Napoletana style pizzas faithful to tradition and baked in a 400 degree wood-fired oven. With both indoor and outdoor seating, Bastoni is the perfect place to sit back and enjoy good food, wine and friends. Takeaway and EFTPOS facilities available.

Gundowring 12

GUNDOWRING FINE FOODS 1350 Gundowring Rd

Phone (02) 6027 5240 Web

gundowringfinefoods.com.au

Email mail@gundowringfinefoods.com.au

Gundowring has been producing unique ice cream from its boutique factory on the family farm since 2003. Using fresh milk from their contented cows and the best fresh produce that their region has to offer produces a truly divine ice cream.

145 Great Alpine Rd

Phone (03) 5751 1155 Web email Open

redramia.com.au cafefez@redramia.com.au Sat - Thurs 8.30am - 4pm, Fri 8.30am - 11pm

Harrietville 13

MOUNTAIN FRESH TROUT AND SALMON FARM 10 Stony Creek Rd

Phone (03) 5759 2558

mountainfreshtrout.com.au Email mountainfresh@bigpond.com Open Thur - Mon 10am-4pm Web

14

Mountain Fresh Trout and Salmon farm is a wonderful High Country experience, where you can enjoy the tranquillity of the Alpine surrounds while you: - Catch your own trout or salmon.

- Feed the fish.

- Purchase fresh or smoked products.

MORRIES ICE CREAMERY/CAFE 195 Great Alpine Rd

Phone (03) 5759 2612 Email morries.cafe@bigpond.com

Porepunkah 18

FEATHERTOP

6619 Great Alpine Rd Phone (03) 5756 2356

boynton.com.au Email boynton@boynton.com.au Open Daily 10am - 5pm Web

19 River & parkside cafe serving fresh & delicious, all homemade breakfast & lunch 7 days.Freshly baked goods every day.

Of course our speciality is homemade icecream in amazing flavours, a must try!

Open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch, and Friday nights for dinner, Café Fez presents a unique atmosphere. Featuring a menu of Middle - Eastern cuisine, a 100 mile wine list, a quixotic array of cocktails and exceptional coffee, this little gem is the perfect place to eat, drink, relax and chill out.

MT BUFFALO OLIVES 307 Mount Buffalo Rd

Phone (03) 5756 2143 Web

mtbuffaloolives.com.au

Email info@mtbuffaloolives.com.au Open

Feathertop is a family owned winery renowned for their award winning cool climate wines. Come in for lunch in the Alfresco Dining Restaurant, where tables have mountain views and the menu features seasonal produce from the vineyard veggie garden. Coffee and platters available 7 days.

Fri - Mon 11am - 5pm Every day in the school holidays 11am - 5pm

Mt Buffalo Olives is a working olive grove, nestled into the foot of Mount Buffalo, renowned for our award winning Extra Virgin Olive Oil, table olives and a range of products hand-crafted from the fantastic local produce. Come and taste!

Kergunyah 15

WADDINGTONS AT KERGUNYAH 2688 Kiewa Valley Hwy

On an historic farm with great views of the lush Kiewa Valley chef Jan Waddington Web waddingtonsrestaurant.wordpress.com has created a contemporary menu focusing on the produce from the surrounding Email waddington@iprimus.com.au garden, farm and regional producers.

Open Thursday-Sunday 12noon - 4pm Enjoy the alfresco deck, sunny window Dinner Bookings by booking only tables or the bar.

Closed late July and August Phone (02) 6027 5393

62 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

20

RAIL TRAIL CAFE 2 Service St

Phone 04 2835 9884 Web

raltrailcafe.com.au

Email lucyjodwyer@hotmail.com Open

Thurs - Sun 8am - 4.30pm All school and public holidays (closed mid July - mid Sept)

6kms from Bright on the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail we are a licenced café serving all day breakfast, lunch & scrumptious baked goods. We use free range eggs & superb fair trade organic coffee. Try our nachos, chicken quesidia or famous breakfast burrito.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 63

BRIGHT & SURROUNDS • GUIDE

Porepunkah 21

RINGER REEF

6835 Great Alpine Rd Phone (03) 5756 2805 Web

ringerreef.com.au

Email admin@ringerreef.com.au Open

Open daily 12-5pm

A VENUE LIKE NO OTHER

Ringer Reef is a boutique vineyard with a picturesque cellar door nestled in the hills of Porepunkah. All wines are made and bottled on site from hand picked grapes from their own vineyard.

Our vineyard is situated just outside of Bright and to the north of the magnificent Mt Feathertop, which gives us the perfect conditions to keep our vines cool.

Mount Beauty 22

SWEETWATER BREWING COMPANY 211 Kiewa Valley Hwy

Phone (03) 5754 1881 Web

sweetwaterbrewing.com.au

Email info@sweetwaterbrewing.com.au Open

Fri - Sun 1pm - 6pm

23

SVARMISK

Microbrewery creating craft beers in the heart of the Victorian High Country. Visit the Brewery Bar to enjoy beers fresh from the Brewery. Regional and house made bar food and snacks available. Member of the High Country Brewery Trail.

84 Bogong High Plains Rd

å skafferi produce store is open for breakfast and lunch. Featuring local produce, boutique wines and a seasonal menu. Svarmisk Web svarmisk.com.au Apartments offer boutique accommodation for Email info@svarmisk.com.au couples, groups and families. All apartments feature stunning architecture and a private Open Thu - Mon: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm balcony hot tub.

Phone (03) 5754 4544

MORE THAN JUST A CELLAR DOOR! • Alfresco Dining Restaurant open all year round (listed in The Age Good Food Guide 2014) • NEW luxury accommodation • Weddings and functions are our specialty • Located on the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail • Cycle and family friendly • Local produce deli and fresh coffee • Fantastic events • Summit Cru Club • Stunning architecture and views HHHHH Winery 2014 James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

Bright Markets

WE’RE ABOUT FAMILY AND QUALITY

Family owned and operated, we have a proud tradition of making premium, award wining, cool climate wines.

This dedication and commitment will ensure the quality of our wine continues for years to come.

Kel and Janelle Boynton look forward to sharing a drink on the lawns with you!

CELLAR DOOR

OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM – 5PM

6619 Great Alpine Road Porepunkah, Victoria Phone: 03 5756 2356 Only 7 minutes drive from Bright www.boynton.com.au boynton@boynton.com.au Feathertop.Winery Feathertop_Wine UNIRRIGATED | HAND PRUNED | HAND SHOOT THINNED | HAND HARVESTED |HAND MADE

64 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

BRIGHT & SURROUNDS

66 •

Swimming in the Ovens River, Bright

• 67

WELCOME • DINNER PLAIN

DINNER PLAIN So pure ... it’s delicious!

V

I

C T O

R

I

Room With A View Walk

A

Distance: 3km Return Walk Grade: Easy to Moderate

ALPINE N AT I O N A L PA R K

Room With A View Walking Track Dead Timber Hill Trail

Montane Loop Walk

HothamDinner Plain Trail

to O meo 4

HORSE SHOE CIRCLE 7

1 2

5 3

6

Dinner Plain Alpine Village BIG MUSTER DRIVE

Carmichael Falls Walk 0

100 m

Designed to complement the beautiful snowgums and history of the area, Dinner Plain is open year round and offers a choice of alpine accommodation that would have been the envy of mountain cattlemen in days gone by. Relax by the fireside, explore the bush tracks and trails under sunny skies, hit the mountain bike trails or simply sit back and breathe in the alpine air.

Nestle into your architecturally designed lodgings and feel a million miles from city life high on the alpine plains.

Distance: 2.5km Walk Grade: Easy

Fitzy’s Cirque

ALPINE N AT I O N A L PA R K

Fitzy’s Cirque Walk

More than 300 private chalets sit snuggled between the snowgums in this relaxed, highaltitude village, the perfect setting to take some time out with as much adventure as you like.

With some bars, cafés and restaurants open throughout the year and year-round activity on offer in Dinner Plain both inside and out, you can create your very own dream getaway - luxe or laidback, high energy or low key.

Precipice Plain Walk

1

WALKING TRAIL

1

LOCAL GUIDE pg.70- 71

This is an all abilities multipurpose trail for mountain bike riding and walking. A short easy stroll around the tennis courts, village ski run and past some of Dinner Plain’s uniquely inspired architecture.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 69

69

GREAT ALPINE RD

to Mt Hotham

A short walk from Dinner Plain, this is the first completed project by the Dinner Plain Landcare Group. The trail was originally an old horse-riding track taking you on an easy walk through the snowgum forest to an open plain with spectacular views of Mt Hotham, Mt Feathertop, Bogong High Plains and the Cobungra River.

Leave the bustle of everyday life and experience a pristine existence where pure mountain water flows fresh from the tap, the snowgums rustle around your windows, walking trails leave right from your door and tranquility makes your visit completely relaxing.

DINNER PLAIN • EXPERIENCES

EXPERIENCES • DINNER PLAIN

Dinner Plain 1

ALPHUTTE

Dinner Plain 6

Big Muster Dve Phone (03) 5159 6620 Web

alphuttedinnerplain.com

Open Open 5:30pm til late

2

DINNER PLAIN HOTEL

Big Muster Dve Phone (03) 5159 6462 Web

dinnerplainhotel.com.au

Email info@dinnerplainhotel.com.au Open Daily 11am - late

3

12 Big Muster Dve rundells.com.au

Email info@rundells.com.au Open Daily 8am - late - closed Sun and

Mon nights during summer

4

mountainkitchen.com.au

Email eat@mountainkitchen.com.au Open Summer daily 9.00am - 4.00pm,

closed Mon & Tues. Winter daily from 8.00am

5

Phone (03) 5159 6324 Web

hotelhighplains.com.au

Email info@hotelhighplains.com.au Open

Daily from 4pm - 1am

TSUBO

Big Muster Dve (Onsen Buidling)

Phone (03) 5159 6622 Web

tsuborestaurant.com.au

Email tsubo.restaurant@gmail.com Open

Stones Throw’s fast growing reputation as an “exceptional dining experience” and “a real hidden gem” are just a couple of the qualities highlighted by our customers. Three large fireplaces create a warm, friendly and inviting ambience to enjoy our gastro-pub style cuisine and wood fired pizza. Indulge in our great value summer accommodation and dining packages.

Tue - Sat dinner 5:30 til late Wed - Sun lunch 12pm - 3pm.

Our relaxed dining environment makes for a restaurant experience that anyone can come and enjoy. Tsubo has an extensive drinks list, with a strong emphasis on Japanese quality sake.

• Travelling to Dinner Plain in summer? Please check relevant websites or call to confirm opening times.

Located in the heart of Dinner Plain, Rundells Alpine lodge provides rustic elegance, alpine charm and classic 4 star guest rooms.

Rundells is the home of Graze restaurant which features as wealth of local prduce and cool climate wines and is recommended in The Age Good Food Guide.

MOUNTAIN KITCHEN

Shop 1, 1 Big Muster Dve

Phone (03) 5159 6560 Web

25 Big Muster Dve

7 Located in Victoria’s Alpine High Country, the Dinner Plain hotel is a bar, bistro and entertainment centre operating 7 days per week, all year round. The hotel serves excellent pub meals and operates with a family friendly environment. Weddings & functions can be professionally catered for and facilities for meetings and conferences are available.

GRAZE, PEPPERS, RUNDELLS ALPINE LODGE

Phone (03) 5159 6422 Web

Alphutte at Dinner Plain is a warm cosy alpine hut serving gourmet pizza and pasta made lovingly from the freshest ingredients by our head chef. So come and join us for dinner or a glass of wine in front of the fire. Often hosting live music, this little hut rocks into the wee hours of the morning in true Alpine Style.

STONES THROW RESTAURANT, HOTEL HIGH PLAINS

Offering all day breakfast and lunch. Come in and enjoy our delicious homestyle gourmet foods, great coffee, sumptuous hot chocolate, sweet treats and selection of fresh juices and beverages. We are fully licenced and feature regional produce prepared and presented to eat in, takeaway or take home from our well stocked pantry.

SOLA COPA

Shop 9/191 Big Muster Dve

Phone (03) 5159 6799 Email info@solacopa.com Open Open Easter long weekend and

snow season, 6:00pm til late

Come and treat yourself to our South American/Mediterranean inspired cuisine.

Accompanied by delicious cocktails and carefully selected wines and whiskeys from around the world.

70 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

Dinner Plain resident and visiting chefs VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 71

DINNER PLAIN •

72 •

Fine dining at Dinner Plain.

Dinner Plain village

• 73

WELCOME • GLENROWAN

6

GLENROWAN Legendary Around the time Ned Kelly was on the way to becoming infamous in the Glenrowan region, folklore has it that he was assisting the Bailey family to plant their first grapevines as a fencing contractor. The ensuing 130 years of wine growing have established Glenrowan’s reputation for full-bodied reds, particularly shiraz, fragrant whites and deliciously renowned fortified wines.

The wines of Glenrowan today remain robust, with modern ways adding sophistication. This wine region’s cellar doors are intimate, historic and welcoming.

5 3 4

1

2

Distance: 16km Ride Grade: Intermediate

CYCLE ROUTE RAIL TRAIL

1

LOCAL GUIDE pg.80- 81

Glenrowan is a cycling mecca amongst local riders. The large loop around the Warby Ranges is both challenging and scenic.

However don’t be disheartened because there is a great 16km ride over the Taminick Gap with a stop at the Baileys of Glenrowan and then perhaps even a ride into the Winton Wetlands where there are a myriad of pathways. Pack a picnic lunch and a bottle of wine and enjoy the highest and the lowest elevations in a single ride!

Sweeping views from the Warby - Ovens National Park over Winton Wetlands offers a myriad of options for a picturesque picnic spot, bird watching and bushwalking. Explore the Warbys, including Ryan’s Lookout, Mount Glenrowan and Salisbury Falls (during the cooler months) and see the country from the vantage points of the now infamous bushranger, Ned Kelly. The township of Glenrowan is the site of the final siege and capture of Kelly and his gang in 1880. Their story is preserved in its attractions, museums and historic walks.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 75

75

Glenrowan Ride

Summer is a wonderful time around Glenrowan for fruit lovers. The growers of the region produce strawberries, cherries, nectarines and peaches, with a number of these orchards open to the public. Who can resist freshly-picked, treeripened, sun-kissed summer fruits (also available as jam, ice cream, preserves and chutney throughout the year)?

GLENROWAN • EXPERIENCES

EXPERIENCES • GLENROWAN

EXPERIENCES

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Photography: Rene Martins

PIZZA AND WINE AT BAILEYS

Discover and explore the reclaimed tracks and vehicle routes at the Winton Wetlands. The Reserve is the perfect place to view and identify the abundant birdlife that inhabits the area. Or pack a picnic and some sensible shoes and find a bush setting picnic spot in Glenrowan wine region’s very own Warby Ranges. Pick up a bottle from one of the many local wineries to enjoy with your lunch.

Enjoy rich, inventive wood-fired pizza and fine wine at Australia’s largest organic vineyard. With a beautiful sun-soaked patio nestled between sprawling vines and an indoor setting that reflects the heritage of one of Australia’s oldest wineries, Baileys is a food and wine destination to be enjoyed through the seasons.

wintonwetlands.org.au

baileysofglenrowan.com.au

HISTORIC VINES, SPECTACULAR WINES Indulge in a day of tasting in one of the finest of wine regions. At Taminick Cellars get amongst the enormous barrels to taste shiraz from vines planted early last century, whilst at Morrisons enjoy the wine whilst soaking up views of the spectacular Warby Ranges. taminickcellars.com.au morrisonsofglenrowan.com

76 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

CONNECT BEFORE YOU VISIT Hear what young brewer James Booth has to say about beer and the region. @thehowlinghound

LOCAL SECRETS • Locally sourced green walnuts are hand-picked before the shell hardens and then pickled by Dianne at Morrisons of Glenrowan using an old family recipe. This versatile delicacy is best served thinly sliced in wholesome summer salads, in warm winter dishes or on a ploughman’s platter.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 77

5 TOP

The Pure & Partnered Shiraz of Glenrowan

1. TAMINICK CELLARS 2010 GENERATIONS IV JANUS Janus being the Roman god of two faces, the god of beginnings and endings, the name is perfectly reflected in this bottle. The combination of traditional Taminick Cellars Shiraz with a small parcel of co-fermented trebbiano gives this drop a completely different character and depth of flavour. The bright berry fruit aromas with hints of cloves and spice make this “a play on the old,” according to fourth generation winemaker, James Booth.

2. MORRISONS OF GLENROWAN 2013 “THE SIEGE” SHIRAZ DURIF The Siege is a complex, deep red wine with strong berry, spice and ripe fruit flavours. This shiraz durif blend is made and aged in oak and is a wine rich in history, the name came from Ned Kelly meeting with his sympathisers near the site of Morrisons’ vineyard to plan the Glenrowan siege during July 1880.

3. AULDSTONE CELLARS 2011 SPARKLING SHIRAZ A hand-crafted ”sparkling red” this delicious wine features spicy, savoury aromas. Big, rich and with an amazing complexity, this wine is ideally paired with turkey and cranberry sauce.

4. BAILEYS OF GLENROWAN 2012 ORGANIC SHIRAZ A certified organic vineyard since 2011, the 2012 organic shiraz from Baileys is a delicious, vibrant offering with excellent structure and concentration upfront and an easygoing aroma. A smooth, dark fruit flavour characterises this medium bodied wine.

5. SILENT RANGE ESTATE 2010 SHIRAZ Deep crimson with red velvet hues defines the tone of the 2010 shiraz. Aromas of blackberry and vanilla with hints of toffee and savoury spices tease the senses. The palate begins with a burst of blackberry and Christmas pudding, then develops with a generous mid palate and a fine tannin finish.

Instagram picture + info of your favourite top tip at #seehighcountry.

PRODUCERS • GLENROWAN

MOVERS & MAKERS

Michael Reid

Winemaker, Auldstone Cellars Q. What attracted you to growing grapes in the Glenrowan area?

A. I have always preferred the full-bodied style of wines. When Harry Tinson was winemaker at Baileys, he showed that this area does that extremely well and also showed a lovely aromatic intensity in his wines.

Q. What are the special characteristics of the wines you grow here and how have they come about?

A. We try to preserve those aromatics, minimise the coarse tannins and celebrate the soft acidity. Modern winemaking techniques allow us to do that. We also aim for balance in our wines so that no single feature dominates but they all integrate and enhance the wine.

Q. As well as visiting your cellar door what must a visitor to Glenrowan do?

A. Apart from the other wonderful cellar doors at Baileys, Booths, Silent Range and Morrisons, and apart from the Ned Kelly experience in Glenrowan – a must-do for the modern tourist is wandering around the tracks through the new Winton Wetlands and experiencing the history and the wildlife. You could spend days there!

Q. What do you and your family love to do on your day off?

A. Nancy and I are wine and food tragics! We love visiting the myriad of wineries, cafes and restaurants in the area.

Q. What do you do to take time out?

A. I love sailing and yacht racing! There are many good sailing venues in the area – Hume Weir, Lake Mulwala, Lake Eildon, Lake Buffalo – I sail my RL24 on them all. But my recent favourite is sailing BloKarts! When Mokoan Yacht Club closed, the club renewed itself as North East Windsport Club (or NEW Club!), we took to sailing land yachts know as BloKarts. Grown men, whizzing around like teenagers, at faster than wind speed, is a sight to see and a great form of relaxation and excitement for all ages and abilities.

Auldstone Cellars 296 Booth Road, Taminick auldstone.com.au

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 79

GLENROWAN • GUIDE

GUIDE • GLENROWAN

Glenrowan 1

Taminick via Glenrowan

BAILEYS OF GLENROWAN

3

BOOTH’S TAMINICK CELLARS 339 Booth Rd

Taminick Gap Rd

Taste Taminick Cellars full-bodied reds, flavoursome whites and luscious fortified Web taminickcellars.com.au wines from estate grown vines dating back to Email jennifer.booth@taminickcellars.com.au 1919. Take in the views from the century old winery, try a handcrafted beer from the onsite Open Daily 10am - 5pm brewery or enjoy a restful stay in the winery B&B. Truly a destination not to be missed.

History and heritage are visibly scattered Phone (03) 5766 1600 around the picturesque gardens. Renowned Web baileysofglenrowan.com.au for intense rich red wines and world class Email cellardoor@baileysofglenrowan.com.au fortifieds. The Old Block Café offers leisurely lunches from the wood fired oven every Fri, Open Daily 1oam – 5pm Sat and Sun from 12 noon to 2.30pm.

Phone (03) 5766 2282

Taminick 2

MORRISONS OF GLENROWAN 30 Kays Lane

Phone (03) 5766 2734 Web

morrisonswinery.com.au

Email morrisons@bordernet.com.au Open

Daily 10am - 5pm, Sun 12pm - 5pm

4

AULDSTONE CELLARS 298 Booth Rd

Morrisons of Glenrowan vineyard, winery and cellar door are set on the easterly slopes of Mt. Glenrowan with stunning views to the Victorian alps and only two kilometres from the site of the Siege of Glenrowan. All wine is estate produced.

Cellar door tastings and sales daily.

Phone (03) 5766 2237 Web

auldstone.com.au

Email winery@auldstone.com.au Open

YE A R

S

14 4

5

Thurs - Sun 9am - 5pm Open every day during school holidays

BLACK DOG BREWERY 339 Booth Rd

Phone (03) 5766 2282 Web

blackdogbrewery.com.au

Email james.booth@taminickcellars.com.au Open

Owners, Michael & Nancy Reid produce an exclusive range of premium, hand crafted wines entirely from their own grapes and have won many awards. They have also developed a “kitchen in the cellar” where Nancy prepares delicious, gourmet lunches every weekend and Michael turns his hand to making cakes to serve with tea and coffee – and of course a glass of Muscat or Port.

Thurs - Mon 12pm - 5pm Bar open Fri - Sun Packaged beer sale Thurs - Mon

Black Dog Brewery produces small batch brews using traditonal techniques and no preservatives ensuring each beer is of the highest quality. Located at Taminick Cellars near Glenrowan, four core beers are produced at the brewery with limited release brews added during the year to enhance the range for the beer connoisseur.

Wangandary 6

History since the 1860s

Door 100-year-old Cellar

1904 Block Vines

SILENT RANGE ESTATE 183 Wilson Rd

Phone (03) 5725 3292 Web

silentrangeestate.com.au

Email lisbeth@silentrangeestate.com.au Open

Heritage buildings

Rustic Wood Fi red

Pizzas

Daily 10am - 5pm By appointment

The Long family invites you to discover the secret of Silent Range Estate, a leading North East Victorian winery producing premium quality, award - winning wines. Situated on the eastern slopes of the historic Warby Range visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the stunning Victorian Alps. Enjoy bushwalking, golfing or cycling adventures in the area and explore the unique Glenrowan Wine Region.

Great Events

Real Australian Heritage in a Bottle

Taminick Gap Road, Glenrowan Phone: 03 5766 1600 cellardoor@baileysofglenrowan.com.au www.baileysofglenrowan.com.au Cellar Door open every day 10am-5pm except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday Old Block Café open Saturday and Sunday 12pm-2.30pm. Bookings reccomended.

80 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 81

WELCOME • KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION

Wangaratta to Milawa Ride

21 20 19 22

Distance: 13.4km One Way Ride Surface: Road/Rail Trail Description: Flat Ride Grade: Intermediate Ride Time: 1½ hrs

Park by Cathedral College on Murdoch Road and head off for Oxley and Milawa and a day of food and wine treats. This ride, on a dedicated trail, takes you along the Wangaratta Whitfield Road before turning left onto the Snow Road.

Start your tasting at Sam Miranda Cellar and cycle on to work up an appetite for some well regarded Milawa fare. Pop in and out of a multitude of cellar doors, farm gates and gourmet food stores.

18

17

15

16

11 12 9 13 8 10

Whitfield Ride 3

5 14

4 6 7

1

CYCLE ROUTE RAIL TRAIL

1

LOCAL GUIDE pg.91- 97

1 2

Venture into the King Valley and it’s hard not to be taken by the warmth and depth of the family owned and operated businesses that line the valley.

With tempting dirt road detours, this ride is perfect for those who love to explore. The towns at the heart of the valley sit nestled into the foothills of Victoria’s high country so the views are superb. Oh ...and did we mention the food and wine on offer!

& MILAWA GOURMET REGION Indulgence in the valley Nestled in the heart of North East Victoria is the veritable food bowl that is the Milawa Gourmet Region. A forerunner in regional produce and world-class wines, Milawa is ripe for exploration with numerous providores set amidst the scenic backdrop of Mount Buffalo.

Milawa and Oxley are the centre of the Milawa Gourmet Region, where you can enjoy a bustling café and restaurant culture, and meet producers of specialty cheese, mustard, bread, olives, berries and honey, as well as jams, pickles and preserves.

Wander from cellar door to farm-gate providore by car or ‘Pedal to Produce’ on your bike. Not far down the road you will find rolling hills, colourful characters and wines with flavour and style, wrapped up in the glorious Italian warmth and generosity of the King Valley.

The King Valley is remarkable for its imaginative use of ‘alternative’ grape varieties by winemakers who long ago recognised the region’s cool-climate potential. The mix of steep slopes, soil types and micro climates provide a mosaic of vineyard opportunities for inquisitive winemakers to explore and develop the varieties and wine styles that are the hallmark of the region’s wines.

Many cellar doors are open seven days in the King Valley, some having their own restaurants with a distinct Italian flavour. Soak up generous hospitality, warming food and new-release innovative wine styles.

The King Valley and The Milawa Gourmet Region’s climate and topography have cultivated an abundance of passionate producers and the area is a must-do for foodies and wine lovers.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 83

83

Distance: 22km Ride Surface: Road Description: Flat to Undulating Ride Grade: Advanced Ride Time: Allow 2 hrs

KING VALLEY

KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION • EXPERIENCES

EXPERIENCES • KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION

EXPERIENCES

DINE FINELY Indulge in two, three or five-course dinners at the Mountain View Hotel’s sophisticated and intimate restaurant. With a rich, flavour-driven menu that makes heroes of local farms and produce, this is a dining experience like no other. Make the most of the fine wine and food by spending a night in one of the refurbished hotel rooms.

PACKING PROSECCO Learn the lost art of how to pack a horse with Dal Zotto’s prosecco before leisurely riding horseback down to the banks of the King River. Sample some delicious Milawa cheese with one of the region’s finest drops while learning about the culture and history of the region from the Forges, who are the last original settlers on the King River.

mvhotel.com.au

forgesfarm.com

PEDAL AND SAMPLE HIT THE PROSECCO ROAD A unique prosecco experience that captures the heart of the King Valley, Prosecco Road is an exciting food and wine trail that includes intimate tastings with the makers.

Savour rustic Italian cuisine and learn about the region over bocce, food and wine while stopping at six prosecco producers in King Valley on this adventure. winesofthekingvalley.com.au

Popular with local bike riders and holiday goers alike, the ride from Milawa to Sam Miranda at Oxley, is a flat and highly accessible ride at under 10 kilometres.

Pop in and out of the many cellar doors, farm gates and gourmet food stores. Stop in at one of the cafés or restaurants for a leisurely lunch or coffee break. Borrow a bike from Brown Brothers or bike hire is available in Milawa.

LOCAL SECRETS • Celebrate the sweet life with the winemaking families of the King Valley at the annual La Dolce Vita wine and food festival in November. Renowned for Nonna Josie’s sweet ‘dolce’ platters, Politini is one of the most popular places to experience the flavours of this festival, all the while listening to Salvatore Politini playing his piano accordion. winesofthekingvalley.com.au

84 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 85

5 TOP

PRODUCERS • KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION

For the Family

1.

LA DOLCE VITA

King Valley’s celebrated wine and food festival is popular among families with children. A family-friendly celebration of Italian lifestyle, there are many events and dining experiences that the children will love.

2.

PLOUGH ON INN

The Plough Inn is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious lunch. Children will love playing a game on the grass while the adults indulge in great food and wine on the patio.

3.

CHILD’S PLAY

Adjacent to Brown Brothers’ cellar door, there is a playground to amuse the children for hours. Tuck into a beautiful meal while watching your children run around together in a secure, fun environment.

4.

BRUNCH IT

With delicious menus designed to satisfy children and adults alike, Café Derailleur is the perfect brunch spot. Tuck into bagels, muesli with fruit, eggs, French toast and more while your kids rummage through the boxes of toys and colouring tools. With excellent coffee and a colourful setting, this is the perfect local for families.

5.

SANDLOT KIDS

No one will be disturbed while selecting his or her favourite drops at Pizzini Wines.

Sample Pizzini’s excellent range of wines at the cellar door while the children work their way around the giant sandpit by the vines just outside.

Instagram picture + info of your favourite top tip at #seehighcountry.

MOVERS & MAKERS Katherine & Caroline Brown Fourth Generation, Brown Brothers Family

Q. What do you love about Milawa?

A. Everyone seems happier, they walk around the office smiling and embracing the beautiful weather.

In Milawa the seasons are so special, when its summer, its warm and sunny, winter is cold, but it’s still usually blue skies and on clear days you can see the snow on Mount Buffalo, in autumn all the leaves on the vines turn a beautiful auburn colour and spring is bud burst - it’s so green!

Q. Was it fun growing up on a vineyard?

A. We used to spend most of our weekends at the winery when we were kids, building cubby houses where we shouldn’t have, driving go-carts through the vineyards (when we shouldn’t have) and helping out at events and festivals.

Q. What are you most proud of in the region?

A. We have friends who come up from the city who have never been before and are just blown away by what’s happening here. The fresh produce, the incredible restaurants and of course the wine!

Q. What food are you enjoying at the moment?

A. Our head chef at Patricia’s Table at Brown Brothers, Douglas Elder, is creating some incredible dishes using a huge range of local produce, and we’re really lucky to live just around the corner from the King River Café – their lemon tart is to die for.

Q. What does a typical day at Brown Brothers hold for you?

A. When we’re at home we have our little routines, we run along the bike path between Oxley and Milawa, coffee at the Epi.Curious at the winery in the mornings, followed by corn bread and cheese from the Milawa Cheese Factory, and fresh fruit and vegies from Mum’s vegetable garden for lunch, and a glass of Brown Brothers prosecco to finish off a great day! Everything tastes better when it’s local.

Q. What plans are there for the winery?

A. This year Brown Brothers is celebrating our 125th year of family winemaking and plans are rolling out for the official celebration, which will take place during the annual November Wine and Food Festival.

Brown Brothers 239 Milawa Bobinwarrah Road, Milawa brownbrothers.com.au @BrownBrothers

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 87

KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION

Milawa Cheese

RELAX WITH A GLASS OF

GRACEBROOK VINEYARDS WINE Enjoy the beautiful views while indulging on our fresh range of home grown, homemade meals!

(03)5729 3562 | E wines@gracebrook.com.au Open: Daily 10am—5pm | Lunch available daily T

www.gracebrook.com.au

88 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

Photography: Ewen Bell

4446 Wangaratta - Whitfield Road, King Valley

• 89

GUIDE • KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION

Cheshunt 1

CHRISMONT

Telephone 03 5729 8321 info@dalzotto.com.au

www.dalzotto.com.au

251 Upper King River Rd Phone (03) 5729 8220 Web Open

Daily 11am - 5pm

2

POLITINI WINES

65 Upper King River Rd Phone (03) 5729 8277

politiniwines.com.au Email enquiries@politiniwines.com.au Open Daily 11am - 5pm (Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day & New Years Day) Web

KING RIVER ESTATE

3556 Wangaratta Whitfield Rd Phone (03) 5729 3689 Web

kingriverestate.com.au

Email contact@kingriverestate.com.au Open

Daily 11am - 5pm

DAL ZOTTO WINES

4861 Wangaratta - Whitfield Rd Phone (03) 5729 8321

The Beautiful King Valley

King River Estate produces outstanding wines using biodynamic viticultural practices.

Explore the French and Italian varieties amongst the tranquil surrounding at the cellar door. Try our local produce. Stay in our self contained accommodation. Wood fired pizza available on weekends.

Whitfield 4

Dal Zotto Wines Cellar Door & Trattoria

At Politini sip & savour French & Italian varieties including Sangiovese, Vermentino, Grecanico & Nero D’Avola. Salami Making workshops run in the cooler months of July & August, bookings are essential (see website for details). Relax & enjoy the King Valley & stay in the Politini guest house “Casolare”.

Edi 3

Main Road Whitfield Victoria 3733 Australia

chrismont.com.au

Email info@chrismont.com.au

Escape to Chrismont in the upper King Valley to experience European and Mediterranean varietals, and breathtaking views of this pristine region. Be introduced to Prosecco; connect with new-wave styles Arneis and Sagrantino, or book a relaxing stay at the Guest House.

Web

dalzotto.com.au

Email info@dalzotto.com.au Open

5

Daily 10am - 5pm.

Trattoria Thurs - Sun lunch Fri 6pm onwords for pizza and pasta

GRACEBROOK VINEYARDS

4446 Wangaratta-Whitfield Rd Phone (03) 5729 3562

gracebrook.com.au Email wines@gracebrook.com.au Open Daily 10am - 5pm Web

In our 22nd year proudly showcasing quality local wines and produce. The Age Good Food Guide. Selected Coffee blends, beans and decadent treats. Family friendly courtyard. Regular Wine tastings and now serving selected local wines by the glass. Join us for “The Provender Experience”.

Freshly made gourmet meals produced daily from home grown and fresh local produce.

Premium estate grown wines featuring both French and Italian varietals. Open daily for lunch and wine tasting.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 91

KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION • GUIDE

Whitfield 6

MOUNTAIN VIEW HOTEL 4 King Valley Rd

Phone (03) 5729 8270 Web

mvhotel.com.au

Email info@mvhotel.com.au Open

Daily 11am - late

7

PIZZINI WINES

175 King Valley Rd Phone (03) 5729 8278 Web

pizzini.com.au

Email talkdirect@pizzini.com.au Open

Daily 10am - 5pm, closed Christmas Day

Join us for a meal in the dining lounge, beautiful beer garden or at the long bar.

Enjoy local wine, beer and cider with your friends. Families are welcomed with a menu for the kids to choose from. Stylish accommodation available.

The welcome at cellar door is warm and generous. Visit to taste Prosecco, Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Brachetto, Verduzzo and Arneis. Katrina Pizzini runs A tavola! cooking school which is part of the family’s cellar door facility, see Pizzini website for the class schedule.

Milawa 8

BROWN BROTHERS

239 Milawa Bobinawarrah Rd Phone (03) 5720 5500 Web

brownbrothers.com.au

Email info@brownbrothers.com.au Open

9

Daily 9am - 5pm

CHRISMONT

Shop 1, 1605 Snow Rd

Phone (03) 5729 8220 Web

chrismont.com.au

Email info@chrismont.com.au Open

Daily 10am - 5pm

10

LINDENWARRAH

223 Milawa Bobinawarrah Rd Phone (03) 5720 5777

lindenwarrah.com.au Email info@lindenwarrah.com.au Ope Hotel Daily, Restaurant Merlot Breakfast Daily, dinner Tues - Sun Web

Take your own wine adventure at the home of Brown Brothers with over 50 wines available for tasting at Cellar Door. Patricia’s Table restaurant offers the ultimate food and wine matching experience while the Epi. curious lounge is relaxed outdoor dining at its best.

Experiencing the taste of Chrismont’s classic European and new-wave Mediterranean wines is a must when in the region. Discover Prosecco, Arneis, Petit Manseng, Tempranillo, Sagrantino and more, or grab a selection as you pass through for your next feast with friends.

Lindenwarrah is an architecturally designed boutique country house hotel and restaurant nestled in the Milawa Gourment Region in Victoria’s High Country, located directly opposite Brown Brothers Epicurean Centre.

92 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION • GUIDE

GUIDE • KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION

Milawa 11

MILAWA CHEESE COMPANY AND FACTORY BAKERY 17 Milawa-Bobinawarrah Rd

Phone (03) 5727 3589 Web

milawacheese.com.au

Email info@milawacheese.com.au Open

Daily 9am - 5pm, Breakfast 9am - 11.30am, Lunch 12pm-3pm, Cheese tasting 9am - 4.30pm

12

OLIVE SHOP AND PROVENDER 1605 Snow Rd

Phone (03) 5727 3887

theoliveshop.com.au Email contact@theoliveshop.com.au Open Daily from 10am Web

Milawa 13

Visit Milawa Cheese Company and Factory Bakery and enjoy a free tasting of our range of award winning, handmade cow and goat milk cheeses. Pick up a loaf of traditional European style bread or artisanal sourdough, stop for a coffee, quick snack or indulge in lunch on the terrace.

SNOW ROAD PRODUCE 1604 Snow Rd

Phone (03) 5727 3688 Web

snowroadproduce.com

Email info@snowroadproduce.com Open

Mon - Thurs & Sat 7am - 6pm Fri & Sun 7am - 9pm

Snow Road Produce is the north-east’s latest epicure hub for locals and tourists visiting the Milawa Gourmet Region. Produce, condiments, wine and beer from the region’s finest producers provides the cornerstone of the 7-day-a-week experience. Breakfast and lunch available 7 days with pizza on fri & sun nights. A great spot to stop for Allpress coffee and homemade sweets.

Myrrhee 14 Discover an expansive range of boutique oils from small groves in the region. Also taste table olives, tapenades & gourmet dressings.

Shop for gifts, women’s accessories & handmade pieces. Specialty hampers can be made to order. It’s a little treasure in the heart of Milawa.

CASA LUNA GOURMET ACCOMMODATION 1569 Boggy Creek Rd

Phone (03) 5729 7650

casaluna.com.au Email indulge@casaluna.com.au Open Daily 9am - 7pm Web

Casa Luna is a food-lover’s haven. Beautiful Italian-influenced wine-matched dinners served in the glass-walled dining room, or pizzas from the oven and meats from the red gum grill, in La Piazza, the alfresco wood-fired kitchen. Then stroll to your luxury suite to sleep, gazing at the moon rising over the valley. Rise to a gourmet breakfast served in the dining room.

Oxley 15

CIAVARELLA OXLEY ESTATE 17 Evans Lane

Phone (03) 5727 3384

oxleyestate.com.au Email wines@oxleyestate.com.au Open Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm Sun 10am - 5pm Web

16

JOHN GEHRIG WINES 80 Gehrigs Lane

Phone (03) 5727 3395 Web

johngehrigwines.com.au

Email enquiries@johngehrigwines.com.au Open

Located in the heart of the Milawa Gourmet Region, amongst 30 vineyards that are within 30 minutes, Lindenwarrah is the ideal destination for the food and wine lover.

A 4.5 star boutique hotel and restaurant, surrounded by vineyards and framed by the surrounding high country. Lindenwarrah has 40 individually decorated rooms, sunny courtyards, soothing fountains, stylish lounges, a vast rooftop terrace, invigorating pool and the restorative wellness spa, while Lindenwarrah’s Restaurant Merlot is among the finest in the region. Situated within walking distance to Brown Brothers and the Milawa Cheese Factory.

94 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

LINDENWARRAH AT MILAWA Milawa-Bobinawarrah Rd, Milawa 3678 T (03) 5720 5777 E info@lindenwarrah.com.au W www.lancemore.com.au AAA Tourism Rating

17

Daily 10am - 5pm Closed Good Friday and Christmas day

1019 Snow Rd

sammiranda.com.au

Email info@sammiranda.com.au Open

Five generations of family winemaking combine tradition and innovation into the award winning range of sparkling, white, red and fortified wines. Come and try the rare varietals including verjuice in the riverside cellar door, or why not visit our heritage listed cellar door in Rutherglen. Come discover Ross’s latest vinous creations and meet the Gehrig family.

SAM MIRANDA KING VALLEY

Phone (03) 5727 3888 Web

Ciavarella Oxley Estate is a family-owned winery focused on making small quantities of premium wines. Output is small and every wine handcrafted. Whether you have a taste for a rich big red, award winning whites, dessert wine or fortified styles, Ciavarella Oxley Estate has a wine to please.

Daily 10am - 5pm

Embark on an adventure with our cool climate wine varietals. Dine in the restaurant or relax on the terrace. Our crisp whites, earthy reds, love of food inspired by the Mediterranean and great coffee means there is something for everyone.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 95

GUIDE • KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION

Tarrawingee 18

THE PLOUGH INN

2322 Beechworth Wangaratta Rd Phone (03) 5725 1609 Web

theploughinn.com.au

Email info@theploughinn.com.au Open

Mon 4pm - 8pm, Wed 4pm - 8pm, Thurs - Sat 12pm - 9pm, Sun 12pm - 4pm

The Plough Inn is located off the Snow Road between Wangaratta & Beechworth. Rated 14/20 in the 2014 Age Good Food Guide, offering restaurant & bar menus. Features rustic dining room, bar with cosy fireplace & family friendly beer garden.

Wangaratta 19

CAFÉ DÉRAILLEUR 38 Norton St

Phone (03) 5722 9589

cafederailleur.com.au Email cafederailleur@gmail.com Open Mon - Fri 7am - 4pm, Sat 7am - 2pm Web

20

QUALITY HOTEL WANGARATTA GATEWAY 29 - 37 Ryley St

Phone (03) 5721 8399

wangarattagateway.com.au Email info@wangarattagateway.com.au Open Hotel 24hrs, Restaurant Breakfast and Dinner daily Web

THE PERFECT PLACE TO STAY, INDULGE AND DISCOVER VICTORIA’S NORTH EAST...

21

8 Tone Road

rinaldos.com.au

Email askus@rinaldos.com.au Open

WANGARATTA’S ONLY 4.5 STAR HOTEL OFFERS

Wangaratta’s internationally award winning 4.5 star hotel offers exceptional state of the art event facilities, the Atrium restaurant, heated pool and accommodation including luxury king rooms; 2 bedroom apartments and a 3 bedroom townhouse. It is the perfect place to base yourself and discover the region.

RINALDOS CASA CUCINA

Phone (03) 57218800 Web

Cafe Derailleur is a small, quirky and unique cafe serving supreme organic coffee to you with passion and experience. Enjoy our housemade breads with breakfast and lunch or our sweet treats. We are located opposite the Wangaratta Railway Station

Lunch Fri and Sat Dinner Tue - Sat

Rinaldo’s Casa Cucina restaurant is about enjoying fine modern Italo-Australian cusine on a daily basis. To eat here is not a privelege but an open invitation to families and friends to gather and celebrate life through food without the need for an occasion. At Rinaldo;s eating well is the flavour of the day.

76 SUITES AND APARTMENTS, STATE OF THE ART FACILITIES AND THE HIGHLY REGARDED ATRIUM RESTAURANT.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU!

22

WINES OF THE KING VALLEY INC Wangarattta Visitor Information Centre, 100 Murphy St

Phone 1800 801 065 Web

winesofthekingvalley.com.au

Email tourism@wangaratta.vic.gov.au Open

Mon - Sun 9am - 5pm

Visit any cellar door in the King Valley and be instantly transported to the Mediterranean.

Meet the winemakers and their families faceto-face and experience first hand the passion they share for life and their Australian-made, Italian varieties including Prosecco and Sangiovese VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 97

Explore the King Valley, one glass at a time

B ROW N B ROT H E R S CHRISMONT DA L Z O T T O L A C A N T I NA PIZZINI POLITINI R E D BA N K S A M M I R A N DA

The King Valley meanders through the cool foothills of the Great Dividing Range, a picturesque backdrop for touring and exploring the region’s cellar doors.

The region is Australia’s home for Italian varieties, an inspired combination of altitude, soil and climate and the passion of the winemaking families.

Participate in wine and food festivals, on the Queen’s Birthday weekend and third weekend in November each year.

Discover, sip and experience the King Valley for yourself, one glass at a time.

winesofthekingvalley.com.au 1800 801 065

P ro s e c c o : fun & fizzy Italian s p a rk l i ng w i n e WINE HEROES

S a n g i ove s e : th e e ss e n c e o f Ki ng Va l l e y re d w i n e

KING VALLEY & MILAWA GOURMET REGION

100 •

Wine barrels and olives, King Valley

La Dolce Vita, Pizzini Wines

• 101

WELCOME • MANSFIELD

Mansfield Town Ride

RAIL TRAIL

Distance: 10km Ride Surface: Road Description: Flat to Undulating Ride Grade: Beginner Ride Time: Allow 1 hr

H IG H ST

6 3

Jump on your bike and cruise around the village streets with views to majestic Mount Buller in the distance. This leisurely ride is suited to all ages and abilities.

Look out for delicious specialties as you pedal around town.

Once your bike basket is full let the kids pick a picnic spot.

5

1

CYCLE ROUTE RAIL TRAIL

1

LOCAL GUIDE pg.108 - 109

to Tolmie & King Valley

7

4 1 Kanumbra 2

Yarck

Alexandra

Distance: 22km One Way Ride Surface: Rail Trail – unsealed compacted gravel Description: Beginner Ride Grade: Flat Ride Time: 2 hr

Culinary gateway to the High Country The main streets of Mansfield – gateway to Victoria’s iconic Lake Eildon, Mount Buller and Mount Stirling – are peppered with village eateries, fuelling visitors with gourmet café and pub fare for the all-season adventure that abounds in the surrounding hills, valleys, rivers and lakes.

Look out for delicious specialties such as Verde olives, chèvre cheese and estate bottled olive oils.

Smoked trout and locally reared, aged beef are also highlights, as well as the wide range of delicious produce at the bustling farmers’ market.

In the Upper Goulburn wine region where vines hug the hinterland, you can taste aromatic whites, French-style sparkling and elegant, textural red wines at family-run cellar doors.

Take a gourmet picnic laden with regional produce plus a bottle of local wine, beer or cider and head up into the mountains to enjoy the views, or load up your bike basket and hit the new Great Victorian Rail Trail from Mansfield to Bonnie Doon.

Pedalling along the Great Victorian Rail Trail is a fun adventure for friends, couples and families alike.

The trail winds through a changing landscape of natural bushland, farmland and beautiful Lake Eildon via the historic Bonnie Doon Bridge. Take your time to drink in the views, find a perch and pause for a gourmet picnic collected before setting out. This ride can be taken as a one-way journey or a return ride.

103

Cathkin

Mansfield to Bonnie Doon Rail Trail Ride

MANSFIELD

Instagram picture + info from your ride at @greatvictorianrailtrail #GVRT. VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 103

MANSFIELD • EXPERIENCES

EXPERIENCES • MANSFIELD

EXPERIENCES

STOCK UP The village of Mansfield has an abundance of great produce and wine, and makes for the perfect place to stock up for your skiing, cycling, fishing or camping trip.

Mansfield Produce Store boasts an array of gourmet products and foods ready to go. Pudding lovers must stop at Stephen’s Fine Foods for award-winning homemade plum pudding, cakes, breads, quiches and more.

MEET THE MAKERS On the fourth Saturday of each month, enjoy local, fresh produce from the growers, makers, movers and shakers of Mansfield and surrounding regions at the Farmers’ Market. With over 25 stalls of meats, cheeses, breads, chutneys, olives and oils, market goers can take home a slice of North East Victoria and meet the makers firsthand.

theproducestore.com.au stephensfinefoods.com.au The Produce Store

nefm.com.au mansfieldfarmersmarket.com.au MansfieldFarmersMarket

BEER AND PIZZA TASTE AND LEARN Following biodynamic practices across all areas of vineyard operations and passionate about minimalist winemaking, Delatite is a small, family-run winery that specialises in cool climate wines, especially white aromatics. Perched on a picturesque rise overlooking the vineyards toward Mount Buller, Delatite is a great place to taste and take home some superb wines. delatitewinery.com.au

Tuck into wood-fired pizza fresh from the oven with locally-brewed beer at Bonnie Bar. Passionate about fresh ingredients and craft beer, Bonnie Bar is the place for simple, quality food and drink to be enjoyed in the cosy indoor space during winter and on sunny outdoor tables in summer. bonniebar.com

LOCAL SECRETS • For chocolate lovers, not much compares to the brownies at the Mansfield Regional Produce Store. Enjoy with coffee or savour the rich taste for the journey home.

104 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 105

5 TOP

Nature, Food and Wine Experiences

1.

BIKE IT TO BONNIE BAR

Pedal along the rail trail to Bonnie Bar for fresh wood-fired pizza and local brews. If the return trip of 44km is too far for you, it is as easy as booking a transfer ride from All Terrain Cycles or Rail Trail Bike Tours to take you home.

2.

WATSONS MOUNTAIN TRAIL ON HORSEBACK

Experience the beauty and history of the Victorian High Country on the back of a sure-footed horse. From one-hour rides, to two-day luxury horse rides and five-day adventures, which includes a riverside barbeque, degustation dinners and local pub treats.

3.

CATCH OF THE DAY

Throw a line into one of the beautiful rivers and enjoy an afternoon of fishing. Pick up a bottle of Delatite Estate riesling and head to the barbecue area at Brewery Bridge in Jamieson. Views of the river and freshly barbecued fish – what more could you ask for?

4.

ALONG THE DELATITE

For a morning of natural beauty like no other, mountain bike down the Delatite River trail before heading to Mirimbah Store for a well-earned lunch.

5.

BAGUETTES, THE BOTANIC AND BEAUTIFUL VIEWS

Wander the main street at Mansfield and collect baguettes from the Mansfield Regional Produce Store. Enjoy a picnic in the Botanic Gardens and use your energy to walk to the top of Mount Battery Road. Up high you will experience fantastic views of hills and snowblanketed mountains in wintertime.

Instagram picture + info of your favourite top tip at #seehighcountry and #mansfieldmtbuller.

PRODUCERS • MANSFIELD

MOVERS & MAKERS Allison Walker

Mansfield Farmers’ Market Q. What’s your favourite Mansfield secret?

A. The yellow armchair beside the window in the Produce Store. Best place to sit for a coffee.

Q. What do you love about running the Mansfield Farmers’ Market?

A. I love food. I love talking to people. When you put the two together – especially when some of the people that I get to talk to actually make the food that I get to eat, then it’s a win-win situation! I love that our market is not just a buy/sell opportunity. It‘s rare that someone comes to the market and doesn’t hang around for a coffee or a cup of tea and a chat.

I also love that there are names behind the produce – Rowie’s capers, Claire’s olive oil, Bruce’s cheese and Thomas’ bread.

Q. What would be on the table at your last supper?

A. Definitely a bottle of Ros Ritchie pinot gris.

Probably a tasting platter of Strathbogie Ranges Estate olive oil, some Hook and Spoon terrine, Boonderoo bread, a slab of The Butter Factory truffle butter ...

Q. What’s your family’s perfect day out?

A. In winter we turn into “the family that skis together, stays together” and love heading up to Buller or further afield to Hotham or Falls. Summer sees us playing in the Delatite River near the base of the mountain or paddle-boarding on Lake Eildon. What I love most about these activities is that they are all in our backyard. So close to home.

Q. Where’s your favourite picnic spot?

A. We’ve walked The Paps a few times and love being perched up on the top with 360-degree views. It is not a hard walk and the view is just amazing – especially if it’s a sunny winter’s day, as you can see the sparkling lakes and rivers and then snow on the mountains in the distance.

Q. Which is your favourite season and why?

A. I am a big fan of winter – both for the snow and skiing and also because I find it easier to put more layers on than the alternative! Our house absolutely rocks in winter – it is a passive solar design and our 3-metre-high north-facing windows allow the sunshine to flood in and heat the whole house. It’s such a great feeling to walk into a warm house on a cold day. I also love the great food and festivals that happen in autumn – there is barely a free weekend in Mansfield in that time slot.

Q. Where do you like to go for a walk?

A. I recently walked up Mount Timbertop for the first time, which was a lot of fun. A short and sharp walk, but with sensational views from the top. I am surprised that it has taken so long to do that one as we can see the mountain from our property and it is fairly imposing.

Walker Events walkerevents.com.au @mansfieldFM

Mansfield Produce Store bread

• 107

MANSFIELD • GUIDE

GUIDE • MANSFIELD

Bonnie Doon 1

BONNIE BAR 2 Phillip St

Phone (03) 5778 7774 Web Email Open

bonniebar.com bonniebarbeerkitchen@gmail.com Fri – Sun from 10am Mon & Thurs from 5pm Meals served 12pm - 3pm & after 6pm

Mansfield 6

Showcasing an impressive selection of the region’s craft beer, locally sourced wines, wholesome house made food and fair trade organic coffee, Bonnie Bar is the perfect place to take a short break and sample the best of what the region has to offer.

MANSFIELD REGIONAL PRODUCE STORE 68 High St

Phone (03) 5779 1404 Web

theproducestore.com.au

Email info@theproducestore.com.au Open

Tues - Sun 9am - 5pm Dinner Fri night

Tolmie

Mansfield 2

DELATITE WINES

Corner of Pollard and Stoneys Rd Phone (03) 5775 2922 Web

delatitewinery.com.au

Email info@delatitewinery.com.au Open

3

Open daily 10am - 5:30pm

7 Delatite is a Mansfield icon. Specialising in delicate, aromatic whites and full-bodied, cool-climate reds made from biodynamically grown grapes, with a sustainable focus.

James Halliday awarded Delatite as a 2014 ‘5 Red Star Winery’ “regularly producing wines of exemplary quality”.

Discover “The Produce Store” and you’ll know that you’ve discovered a gem. Shelves loaded with local produce, art work, a regional wine room and all that before you even taste the food. This is “the place with the buzz” for breakfast, lunch and the best coffee around.

TIN SHED CIDER 1090 Tabletop Rd

Phone 0427 794 951 Web

tinshedcider.com.au

Email sales@tinshedcider.com.au Open

Sun 11:00 – 3:00 Public Holidays 11:00 – 3:00 Or by appointment

An Old Tin Shed, fresh apple juice, old fashioned methods, no bubbles, no preservatives, no added sugar – TIN SHED CIDER. Enjoy the difference!! Cellar Door, snacks. A Brew with a View

HIGH COUNTRY WINE CELLARS Shop 2 Erril St (rear 50 High St)

“The wine tour without the bus.” We offer cellar door tastings and sales featuring more Web highcountrywinecellars.com.au than 15 wineries/producers from the Upper Email info@highcountrywinecellars.com.au Goulburn and Strathbogie Wine Regions and more than 60 different wines, plus boutique Open Wed & Thurs 11am - 5pm, Fri & Sat beer and cider.

11am - 6pm,Sun - by appointment, Public Holidays (except Christmas and Good Friday) 11am - 5pm.

Phone (03) 5779 1431

4

LONG LANE CAPERS 779 Long Lane

Phone 0429 612 082

longlanecapers.com Email longlanecapers@bigpond.com Open No farmgate Web

Long Lane Capers are grown in the High Country of Victoria on the outskirts of Mansfield. With a passion for producing fresh, high quality food, our capers and caperberries are hand picked and preserved using Murray River Sunsalt.

Mansfield 5

MAGNOLIA MANSFIELD 190 Mt Buller Rd

Phone (03) 5779 1000

magnoliamansfield.com.au Email magnolia@mansfield.net.au Open Thurs - Sat 6pm Summer Sundays - Degustation Group Bookings Only Web

A Mansfield icon, The Magnolia built in 1907 with her ornate charm is the perfect setting for our European influenced cuisine where we use a simple & classic approach using fresh local produce, everything here is handmade by Chef Travis Boltong.

108 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 109

Photography: Bob Bateup

MANSFIELD •

110 •

View from Mansfield towards Mount Buller

Delatite Winery High Country Harvest lunch

• 111

0

NSW

VIC 19

M urray

ERY RD

GO

HUMPH

ER

ORA

DD MA

D A R

RUTHERGLEN WAHGUNYAH RD G R A H A M LN

8

13

12 9 14

D

5

JONES RD M U R R A Y V A L L E Y H W Y

6

CH

JA C K S R

Strong traditions and a love of grape growing and winemaking mean you’ll meet third, fourth and fifth generation winemakers whose children have joined the family business, bringing with them unbridled enthusiasm and the latest ideas and techniques.

4

MAIN ST HIGH ST

to Yarrawonga/Mulwala

A rich history and a vibrant future. It was the early 1860s when vineyards were first planted around Rutherglen, and in most cases they are still in the original families.

7

to Albury/Wodonga

Rutherglen

11

Full of flavour

2

D

D IS T IL L

YL

AIL

RL

3

TR

CA

18

IL

RUTHERGLEN

r

Shaws Flat

Wahgunyah WAHGUNYAH RD RA

WELCOME • RUTHERGLEN

2 km

M IA M IA

U P RI V ER RD ALL SAINTS RD

RE YS RD

22 Corowa 16 21

Rive

ST LEONARDS RD

1

RD

15 17 20

Police Paddocks

I LT ER

THREE CHAIN RD 10 SHERIDAN BRIDGE RD SLAUGHTERHOUSE RD

N RU TH ER GL EN

B lac

RD

to Wangaratta

C H I LT E R N B OX- I R O N B A R K N AT I O N A L PA R K

k Dog Creek

Chiltern

RUTHERGLEN SPRINGHURST RD

i HUME

FWY

OLD CEMETERY RD

Springhurst

1

to Beechworth

CYCLE ROUTE RAIL TRAIL

1

LOCAL GUIDE pg.119 - 125

Distance: 29km Ride Surface: Road Description: Flat Ride Grade: Intermediate Ride Time: Allow 2 ½ hours

With relatively flat terrain, Rutherglen and Wahgunyah are the perfect places to explore on bike.

With winemakers, cafés and characters scattered at close range you will find yourself at the next cellar door before you’ve even had time to work up a sweat.

With the Murray River weaving in and out of your ride, why not plan to picnic on its banks, take a dip or simply just marvel at the magnificence of the 100-year-old gums that line it on either side.

Where there’s wine, there’s great food. The farming heritage of the region has flowed naturally into vibrant food production and appreciation. Produce includes olives and olive oil, chutneys, preserves and pickles as well as lamb and Murray cod. The cafés and restaurants of Rutherglen, as well as the welcoming surrounding villages of Wahgunyah, Barnawartha and Chiltern, make the most of this gourmet produce.

113

1

Wahgunyah Ride

On the fertile river plains of the Murray Valley, the unique combination of soil, sunshine and a little bit of Rutherglen magic has made this town the home of Australia’s internationally-renowned fortified muscat and topaque. Durif is unique to the area and is one of the rich, robust reds for which Rutherglen is famous. There are also excellent crisp whites, sparkling reds and whites, and medium-bodied reds to ensure that every wine drinker’s wishes are fulfilled.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 113

RUTHERGLEN • EXPERIENCES

EXPERIENCES • RUTHERGLEN

BELLES, BIKES AND BUBBLES

EXPERIENCES

A weekend spent in the beautiful Rutherglen wine region is a bounty of food, wine, cycling and fun.

Including two nights’ accommodation at the classic Victoria Hotel, continental breakfast, a tasting at Cofield Wines, $30 shopping voucher and 30-minute massage, this is the perfect weekend of luxury and leisure.

Pedal from breakfast through the countryside on the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail while working up an appetite for a two-course lunch paired with wine at Pickled Sisters Cafe, where the focus is on quality ingredients and French-inspired flavours. Continue the scenic journey at your leisure, before returning for a two-course meal at Victoria Hotel’s bustling bistro.

TRUFFLE-MAKING CLASS Learn the fine craft of chocolate truffle making from the region’s well recognised artisans at Renaissance Chocolates.

This three-hour masterclass will see you hand making and decorating chocolate truffles, whilst being schooled in the world of couverture and mastering the art of tempering.

Morning tea, your handmade treats and tastings are all included in this charming, indulgent experience. Take home over a dozen of your own creations for your loved ones to try, or stock up on supplies and teach them the art of chocolate truffle making yourself.

victoriahotelrutherglen.com.au TheVictoriaHotel

renaissancechocolates.com.au

AMAZING CUISINE Take the majestic English elm-lined entrance to the decadent Terrace Restaurant at All Saints Estate Winery, where inspired cuisine and award-winning wine comes together in a romantic, intimate setting.

Enjoy two or three courses from the seasonal menu that is created with local produce and quality ingredients while overlooking sweeping vineyards and manicured gardens.

A complimentary pick up/drop off chauffeur service for those staying nearby allows guests to unwind and enjoy some of the finest drops in North East Victoria. allsaintswine.com.au All Saints Estate Wine

114 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

LOCAL SECRETS • The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail begins in Rutherglen. Bring your bikes from home or rent from the Information Centre and ride the smooth path from winery to winery, while soaking in the picturesque scenery and stopping at cellar doors along the way.

Most wineries will deliver your selections to your accommodation in Rutherglen, so all you have to worry about is sampling and selecting your favourite drops. murraytomountains.com.au

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 115

5 TOP

PRODUCERS • RUTHERGLEN

Retro Rutherglen

1.

THE SWEET CYCLE

Ride among the vines in your best tweed in this gentle 25km adventure in vintage Rutherglen. With three unique food and wine experiences each year, the Sweet Cycle is a day to sample the region’s fresh, seasonal produce, award-winning wines and the beautiful country atmosphere.

2.

SHERRY – NOT LIKE YOUR GRANNY DRINKS Sample the flavours of the drop that originated in southern Spain, where new players give life to this old favourite. Enjoy an array of sweet, dry and nutty flavours at Pfeiffer Wines or sip on a delicious glass from Jones Winery before lunch.

3.

FORTIFIED WINES

Try some of Rutherglen’s world famous fortified wines, including Australia’s first perfect score muscat at Campbell’s Winery, awarded by New York-based Wine Spectator magazine. Keep the taste buds dancing at Morris Wines and Chambers Winery, where more award-winning varieties await.

4.

ROLLING IN STYLE

Hire beautiful vintage bikes from St Leonard’s cellar door and ride along the river path with a delicious cheese platter and fine bottle of wine in your wicker basket, taking in the flavours and charm of the region along the way.

5.

A VINTAGE SHOPPER’S PARADISE

MOVERS & MAKERS David Morris

Winemaker, Morris Wines Q. What would be on the table at your last supper?

A. Lobster and sparkling shiraz/durif (not the perfect match, but much enjoyed) shared with friends.

Q. What’s your family’s perfect day out?

A. Hard to get us all together, most recently it’s been at the football and we have enjoyed the day.

Q. Where’s your favourite picnic spot?

A. Police Paddocks Reserve on the banks of the Murray River, just outside Rutherglen.

Q. Which of your wines would you recommend for ...

A. ... a great evening meal (meat dish) with friends?

A durif of some age (15 plus years) that showcases how wines get better with age - the wow factor.

Q. Which is your favourite season and why?

A. Autumn, for the excitement of harvesting the fruit from the vines, the lovely sunny days and the changing colours of the season.

Q. Rutherglen is famous for its durif. What’s the secret of making a great durif?

A. While all makers have their own style, I like the rich and generous flavours of a durif. To produce this style the main thing is not to rush the processing, a steady ferment in an open fermenter, pressed using a basket press and then maturation in barrels for approximately 20 months, time for the flavours to integrate and tannins to soften.

Q. Where do you like to go for a walk?

A. Out in the farm paddocks, looking at the cattle. I love the quietness of the environment, only broken by the noise of birds and livestock.

Morris Wines Mia Mia Rd, Rutherglen morriswines.com @Morris_Wines

Stroll along the main street and be delighted by the treasure trove of quirky antique shops, beautiful vintage pieces, retro clothing and hard-to-find books.

Instagram picture + info of your favourite top tip at #seehighcountry.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 117

RUTHERGLEN •

GUIDE • RUTHERGLEN

Chiltern 1

HOTSON’S CHERRIES 143 Old Cemetery Rd

Phone (03) 5726 1358 Web

hotsoncherries.com

Email hotson@westnet.com.au Open

Daily 9am - 5pm Nov - Dec Other times in season by appointment

Delight in the taste of top quality freshly picked cherries direct from the farm gate. A delicious seaonal treat carefully picked and packed for your convenience. Your hosts Bill & Lois Hotson.

Gooramadda 2

GOORAMADDA OLIVES 1468 Gooramadda Rd

Phone (02) 6026 5658 Web

www.olivesandoil.info

Email shop@gooramaddaolives.com.au Open

Saturday & Sunday 10am-5pm Public holidays (except Christmas Day) Other times by prior arrangement

Naturally fermented olives and varietal extra virgin olive oils. An extensive range of over 8 table olives and oil varieties that are estate grown, handpicked and lovingly tended. Our salad dressings, tapenade, seasoned olives and infused oils are made onsite with our award winning olives and extra virgin olive oils. Visit our cellar door for tasting and sales, stay a while, relax and enjoy the stunning panoramic view.

Norong 3

RENAISSANCE CHOCOLATES 507 Boorhaman East Rd

Phone (02) 6035 7216 Web

renaissancechocolates.com.au

Email info@renaissancebrand.com.au Open

Thursday to Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday & public holiday Mondays 10am - 4pm

Renaissance Chocolate’s Rutherglen Wine Truffles and Pralines are handmade in small batches at our Bed & Breakfast property in North East Victoria using the finest Belgian couverture, famous Rutherglen fortifieds and sparkling wines, locally sourced cream, honey nuts and fruits.

Wahgunyah Rutherglen 4

ANDERSON WINERY 1619 Chiltern Rd

Phone (02) 6032 8111 Web

www.andersonwinery.com.au

Email sales@andersonwinery.com.au Open

5

Mon - Sun 10am - 5pm Closed Good Friday, Christmas day and Boxing day

If you love full bodied reds (particularly Durif) and/or premium sparkling wines, Anderson is a must visit. Father & daughter winemakers Howard & Christobelle are making some of Rutherglen’s most awarded table wines. Come inside the “big white shed” & discover our wines in the ambience of a working winery.

CAMPBELLS WINES

4603 Murray Valley Hwy Phone (02) 6033 6000 Web

campbellswines.com.au

Email wine@campbellswines.com.au Open

118 •

Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 5pm Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day

Home to the iconic Bobbie Burns Shiraz.

Campbells combines 143 years of family tradition with innovation to produce distinctive Rutherglen wines. Taste limited release & back vintage wines, private tastings and explore the century old cellars. Enjoy a Hamper Box filled with cheeses, charcuterie and more - available all day, every day!

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 119

EvEnt information: 1300 787 929 accommodation & visitor info: 1800 622 871 www.winemakers.com.au

andErson WinErY

aLL saints EstatE

BULLEr WinEs

The Winemakers of Rutherglen look forward to welcoming you to one of Australia’s most historic and iconic wine regions, rated by James Halliday with the highest number of FIVE STAR wineries of any region in Australia.

Join us for Tastes of Rutherglen & Winery Walkabout

camPBELLs WinEs

cHamBErs rosEWood WinErY

cofiELd WinEs

GHEriG EstatE WinEs

GUIDE • RUTHERGLEN

Rutherglen 6

JONES WINERY & VINEYARD & CAFE 61 Jones Rd

Arthur and Mandy Jones’s boutique winery has a lot going for it; international expertise, Web joneswinery.com 110 year old dry land vineyard, charming Email jones@joneswinery.com old brick barn. In the cafe chef, Kate Akrap, Open Cellar Door Mon 10am - pm lends a light touch to traditional French Cafe & Cellar Thurs - Fri 10am - 4pm recipes focusing on local, seasonal produce.

Sat - Sun 10am - 5pm Phone (02) 6032 8496

7

MORRIS WINES Mia Mia Rd

Phone (02) 6026 7303 Web

morriswines.com

Email cellardoor@morriswines.com JonEs WinErY

LaKE moodEmErE vinEYards

morris WinEs

moUnt Prior vinEYard

PfEiffEr WinEs

rUtHErGLEn EstatEs

JoHn GHEriG WinEs

Open Mon - Sat 9am-5pm

Sun 10am-5pm

8 stanton & KiLLEEn WinEs

scion vinEYard & WinErY

st LEonards vinEYard

vaLHaLLa WinEs

vintara WinErY

WarraBiLLa WinEs

RUTHERGLEN ESTATES

Tuileries Complex, Drummond St

andErson WinErY

Phone (02) 6032 7999 Web

We bear the name of one of the oldest and most recognised wine regions in Australia and our mission is to produce the most regionally typical premium wines most suited to the Rutherglen region. Our wines are produced entirely from fruit grown on our own Rutherglen vineyards.

Open

Proudly regional

13–35 Drummond Street Rutherglen Victoria 02 6032 7999 cellar@rutherglenestates.com.au www.rutherglenestates.com.au

120 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

9

Estate grown

7 days 10am - 5.30pm

57 Main St

rutherglenvic.com Email info@rutherglenvic.com Open 7 days 9am - 5pm Web

Quality Innovation & personality

Rutherglen Estates offers a range of Estate grown, award winning wines. In a region known for producing hearty reds and fortifieds we specialise in Italian & Mediteranean varietals. Visit our cellar door to sample our range and you will discover a relaxed environment and friendly staff. Rutherglen Estates wines can be purchased at cellar door or on our website.

RUTHERGLEN WINE EXPERIENCE

Phone 1800 622 871

Rutherglen Estates is internationally celebrated for producing inspired alternative varietals and blends from Viognier, Marsanne, Fiano, Arneis, Savagnin, Shiraz, Sangiovese, Mourvedre, Grenache and Durif.

Cellar Door open 7 days 10am to 5.30pm

rutherglenestates.com.au

Email cellar@rutherglenestates.com.au

Redefining the traditions of one of the world’s best fortified wine regions

Morris Wines is a fifth generation winery.

The wines boast awards rivalled by few and a visit to this winery is a real experience.

The Cellar Door offers views of the century old casks and a full range of table and fortified wines.

10

SCION VINEYARD & WINERY 74 Slaughterhouse Rd

Phone (02) 6032 8844 Web

scionvineyard.com

Email contact@scionvineyard.com Open

Start your Rutherglen adventure here! The Rutherglen Wine Experience offers a full suite of visitor information services, hire bikes, giftshop with local wines, souvenirs & produce, on-site café, free Wi-Fi, regional art gallery and so much more.

7 days 10am-5pm

Specialising in Durif, Viognier & Muscat, Scion is a boutique producer crafting premium hand-made wine from an 8-acre vineyard. Engage with a passionate and contemporary approach to winemaking at cellar door, or enjoy a glass of wine on the lawn.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 121

RUTHERGLEN • GUIDE

GUIDE • RUTHERGLEN

Rutherglen

STANTON AND KILLEEN WINES Jacks Rd

Phone (02) 6032 9457

stantonandkilleenwines.com.au Email wine@stantonandkilleenwines.com.au Open Mon - Sat 9 am - 5 pm Sun 10 am - 5 pm Closed Christmas Day Web

12

16 Seven generations have poured their passion into the heart and soul of Stanton and Killeen Wines. Evolving from a predominantly fortified wine cellar dating back to 1875, the portfolio today consists of wine styles that provide choices for every wine lover. The essence of the Stanton and Killeen enterprise is to enrich the experience of sharing and enjoying food and wine with family and friends.

THE VICTORIA HOTEL RUTHERGLEN

Phone (02) 6032 8610

victoriahotelrutherglen.com.au Email info@victoriahotelrutherglen.com.au Open Mon - Sat 11am - 1 am Sun 11am - 11pm Web

13

Phone (02) 6033 3798

cofieldwines.com.au Email topdrop@cofieldwines.com.au Open Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm Sun 10am - 5pm Web

The Victoria Hotel is a classic Australian hotel built in 1886 From a traditional pub lunch in the garden to the cozy bistro or more formal experience in Mrs Brown’s we offer dining options to suit all occasions and budgets

Visit our family owned vineyard specialising in quality Sparkling wines & our great range of premium table wines. Whether a relaxed lunch at the Pickled Sisters Cafe, a family BBQ lunch on the lawns or a guided tour of our winery is more your style, you will love your visit to Cofield Wines.

INDIGO CHEESE CO. 315 All Saints Rd

Phone 1800 021 621

allsaintswine.com.au Email customerservice@allsaintswine.com.au Open Mon - Sun 10am - 4pm Web

Indigo Cheese Co. offers North East Victoria’s finest range of delicious local and regional Victorian artisan produce: the very finest pickles, biscuits, preserves, cheeses, wines and more. Cheese and antipasto platters also available to enjoy by the gorgeous duck pond.

TUILERIES RUTHERGLEN 13-35 Drummond St

Phone (02) 6032 9033 Web

Distillery Rd

17

90 Main St

COFIELD WINES

tuileriesrutherglen.com.au

Email info@tuileriesrutherglen.com.au Open Restaurant Daily from 6.30pm

Cafe Daily from 12pm Wine Bar Tues - Sat from 6.00pm

Tuileries Restaurant, located in the historic Jolimont Cellars, has long been synonymous with the Rutherglen Wine Region.

With a casual café and boutique style accommodation overlooking the vines.

Great packages with dinner included.

David C. Morris

(Mick) Charles H. Morris

14

WINEMAKERS OF RUTHERGLEN 57 Main St

Phone (02) 6033 6301 Web

winemakers.com.au

Email info@winemakers.com.au Open Mon - Fri 9am - 4pm

The Winemakers of Rutherglen is a cohesive group of twenty local winemakers and viticulturists who strive to support each other and the community. Our aim is to advance the economic and environmental health of the Rutherglen Wine Region. This is supported by increasing visitation to the region by promoting events and Rutherglen wines in the local, national and international marketplace.

Wahgunyah 15

Charles H. Morris

George F. Morris

The Victorian gold rush of the 1850s first attracted George Francis Morris to Rutherglen, but he soon discovered this grand terroir could also produce gold of another kind. By 1894 Morris was the major producer of wine in Australia. Five generations on, David Charles Morris is still handcrafting signature wines like their full blooded Durif red wine, made in the same great family tradition that has made Morris fortified wines the major attraction in Australia’s goldfields. Discover for yourself at www.morriswines.com.au or call (02) 6026 7303.

ALL SAINTS ESTATE 315 All Saints Rd

Phone 1800 021 621 Web

Charles T. Morris

How a Morris Miner cultivated five Morris Majors.

allsaintswine.com.au

Email customerservice@allsaintswine.com.au Open Mon - Sat 9am - 5.30pm

Sun 10am - 5.30pm

Established in 1864, All Saints Estate has been producing award winning wines for 150 years. The historical and iconic estate, set amongst one of the most spectacular vineyard settings in Australia, is a must-see destination for wine and food lovers.

122 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

MIA MIA ROAD, RUTHERGLEN, VIC 3685 Drink Morris wines responsibly.

thoroughbreds without equal VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 123

Reedcomm MW518

11

Wahgunyah

GUIDE • RUTHERGLEN

Wahgunyah 18

PFEIFFER WINES 167 Distillery Rd

Phone (02) 6033 2805 Web

pfeifferwines.com.au

Email cellardoor@pfeifferwines.com.au Open

19

Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm Sun 10am - 5pm

ST LEONARDS VINEYARD St Leonards Rd

Phone 1800 021 621

stleonardswine.com.au Email cellardoor@stleonardswine.com.au Open Seasonal Web

Established in 1860, St Leonards Vineyard is a hideaway for wine and food lovers.

Our Cellar Door offers a unique range of single vineyard wines including the opulent St Leonards Vineyard ‘Wahgunyah’ Shiraz and the savoury Cabernet Franc rated 5 stars by Gourmet Traveller Wine.

Picturesque and relaxing, the winery makes for a perfect lunch spot on the weekends, with a casual, seasonal menu designed by ‘one hat’ head chef Simon Arkless.

20

315 All Saints Rd

Explore our beautiful wine region on cool vintage bicycles, available for hire from Cellar Door.

Cellar Door open Thursday - Monday except Christmas Day: 10am - 5pm.

Café open Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays: from 12pm.

Live Music on the Murray - first Saturday of every month: 12pm - 4pm.

Enquiries on 1800 021 621

St Leonards Road, Wahgunyah, Victoria, Australia, 3687 T: 1800 021 621 cellardoor@stleonardswine.com.au www.stleonardswine.com.au

21

Wed - Sun lunch: 12pm - 3pm Sat dinner: 6pm - 9pm

Phone (02) 6033 2377

pickledsisters.com.au Email cafe@pickledsisters.com.au Open Weekdays 10am - 3pm Sat - Sun 9am - 4pm Closed Tues Evenings by arrangement Web

22

With a simple interior and rustic winery surrounds, we offer a relaxed, warm and welcoming dining experience. Dine alfresco on our deck indulging in the finest regional produce matched to fabulous local wines.

Gourmet produce and hampers available.

Perfect for weddings and private functions.

VALHALLA WINES 163 All Saints Rd

Phone (02) 6033 1438

valhallawines.com.au

Email wine@valhallawines.com.au Open

The magnificent All Saints Estate also hosts the renowned Terrace Restaurant awarded ‘one hat’ by The Age Good Food Guide 2014. The restaurant, headed by Simon Arkless, overlooks sweeping lawns to the vineyards beyond. Indulge in an inventive seasonal menu backed by an award-winning wine list. No wonder it is North East Victoria’s favourite dining experience.

THE PICKLED SISTERS CAFE at Cofield Wines Distillery Rd

Web

A hideaway for wine and food lovers.

allsaintswine.com.au

Email functions@allsaintswine.com.au Open

Established in 1860, St Leonards Vineyard is a hideaway for wine and food lovers.

Taste our unique range of single vineyard wines, enjoy the outdoors and let the kids run free on the lush lawns. The winery is also a picturesque and relaxing lunch spot on the weekends, with regular live music.

TERRACE RESTAURANT

Phone 1800 021 621 Web

Pfeiffer Wines is an award winning, familyowned winery. Our historic cellars are nestled on beautiful Sunday Creek. Visitors are always made most welcomed for tastings and sales or even for turtle “pfeeding” from our “pfamous” Pfeiffer Sunday Creek Bridge.

Fri - Sun 10am - 4pm Other times by appointment

Our Strawbale winery, natural farming methods, kitchen garden and worm farm mean that we leave a lighter footprint for the next generation. These sustainable practices and our attention to detail create wines of character, wines with soul.

VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE • 125

RUTHERGLEN •

126 •

Lake Moodemere

Terrace Restaurant at All Saints Estate

• 127

INDEX All Saints Estate 122 Alphütte 70 Amulet Vineyard & Beechworth Cider 37 Anderson Winery 119 Auldstone Cellars 81 Baileys of Glenrowan 80 Bastoni Pizzeria 63 Beechworth Bakery 37 Beechworth Honey Discovery 37 Beechworth Honey Experience 37 Beechworth Provender 37 Benalla Gallery Café 50 Black Dog Brewery 81 Bertallis Alpine Breads 50 Bonnie Bar 108 Booth’s Taminick Cellars 81 Bridge Road Brewers 38 Bright Brewery 60 Bright Chocolate Factory & Store 60 Bright Markets. Make It. Bake It. Grow It. 60 Brown Brothers 92 Cafe Derailleur 97 Café Fez 63 Campbells Wines 119 Casa Luna Gourmet Accommodation 95 Cellar Door Wine Store 38 Chrismont 91,92 Ciavarella Oxley Estate 95 Cofield Wines 123 Coral Lee 60 Dal Zotto Wines 91 Delatite Wines 108 Dinner Plain Hotel 70 Feathertop 63 Gapsted Wines 62 Gigi’s of Beechworth 39 Ginger Baker 60 Gooramadda Olives 119 Gracebrook Vineyards 91 Graze Restaurant, Rundells Alpine Lodge 70 Gundowring Fine Foods 62 Hedonistic Hiking 17 High Country Wine Cellars 108 Hook and Spoon 50 Hotel Nicholas 39 Hotson’s Cherries 119 Indigo Cheese Co. 123 Indigo Vineyard 40 John Gehrig Wines 95 Jones Winery & Vineyard & Cafe 121 King River Estate 91 Kooyonga Creek Wines 51 Lindenwarrah 92 Long Lane Capers 108 Magnolia Mansfield 108 Mansfield Regional Produce Store 109 Milawa Cheese Company and Factory Bakery 94 Milch Cafe & Bar 61

Morris Wines Morries Ice Creamery/Cafe Morrisons of Glenrowan Mountain Fresh Trout and Salmon Farm Mountain Kitchen Mountain View Hotel Mt Buffalo Olives Mt Pilot Estate Olive Shop and Provender Pennyweight Winery Pfeiffer Wines Pizzini Wines Politini Wines Provenance Restaurant & Accommodation Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway Rail Trail Cafe Renaissance Chocolates Rinaldos Casa Cucina Ringer Reef Rustik Café & Wine Bar Rutherglen Estates Rutherglen Wine Experience Sam Miranda King Valley Scion Winery Silent Range Estate Simones Restaurant and Cooking School Sinclair Orchards Snow Road Produce So Simple Cafe Sola Copa Snowline Fruits St Leonards Vineyard Stanton and Killeen Wines Stones Throw Restaurant, Hotel High Plaints Summit Ridge Alpine Lodge Sweetwater Brewing Company Svarmisk Tani Eat & Drink Tanswells Commercial Hotel Tatong Tavern Terrace Restaurant The North Eastern Hotel The Ox and Hound Bistro The Pickled Sisters Cafe The Plough Inn The Stanley The Thoona Pub The Victoria Hotel Rutherglen Thirteen Steps Bistro/Wine Bar Tin Shed Cider Tour de Vines Tsubo Tuileries Rutherglen Valhallah Wines Waddingtons at Kergunyah Winemakers of Rutherglen Wines of the King Valley Inc

128 • VICTORIA’S HIGH COUNTRY FOOD AND WINE GUIDE

121 62 80 62 70 92 63 40 94 39 125 92 91 39 97 63 119 97 64 50 121 121 95 121 81 61 40 95 39 70 41 125 122 71 61 64 64 61 40 51 125 50 40 125 97 41 51 122 61 109 15 71 122 125 62 122 97

Chrismont embodies a distinct blend of quality cool climate wines, stunning King Valley scenery and welcoming hospitality.

With cellar doors in King Valley and the Milawa Gourmet Region, a luxurious guesthouse, a lively calendar of events, and an impressive collection of modern Mediterranean and classic European wines to taste, a visit to Chrismont promises to be a memorable escape.

Cellar Door & Guest House, King Valley: 251 Upper King River Road, Cheshunt. Open: 11am – 5pm Tasting & Sales Outlet, Milawa Gourmet Region: Shop 1, 1605 Snow Rd, Milawa. Open: 10am – 5pm Telephone: (03) 5729 8220 I Email: info@chrismont.com.au l Web: www.chrismont.com.au ChrismontWine Chrismont_wine

Cellar Door

Epicurean Centre

Milawa Vineyard

Discover Brown Brothers winery in the heart of Milawa. Start at our cellar door and explore over 45 different varietals with our friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Take a seat at Patricia’s Table for seasonal dishes carefully matched to our wines. Or meet friends at Epi.Curious – relaxed wine and food, for a little taste of the region’s finest.

Take in 125 years of history as you wander around our lush gardens and picturesque family owned winery. Feel free to enjoy our BBQ facilities and children’s playground.

Cellar Door: Open 9am – 5pm daily.

Epicurean Centre: Open 9am – 4pm daily. (Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day) Brown Brothers Milawa Vineyard. 239 Milawa Bobinawarrah Rd, Milawa, VIC 3678.

For bookings phone 03 5720 5540. brown brothers.com.au

Walwa

Rutherglen Wine Region

Corryong Tallangatta

HIGH COUNTRY RAIL TRAIL

Beechworth Wine Region Glenrowan Wine Region

King Valley Wine Region

MURRAY TO MOUNTAINS RAIL TRAIL

Alpine Valleys Wine Region

Mount Feathertop

Bonnie Doon

Dinner Plain

i

Mansfield

GREAT VICTORIAN RAIL TRAIL

HWY

Tolmie

to Yarra Valley & Melbourne to Melbourne

i

GREAT ALPINE ROAD

Upper Goulburn Wine Region

Mt Buller Mount Buller ALPINE NATIONAL PARK

GREA

T

DIV

IDIN

G

RAN

GE Omeo to Bairnsdale RAIL TRAIL

Lake Eildon

Jamieson