Yarra Valley – Wine Tasting

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After golfing three days in a row it was time for a break. What better way than to head north of Melbourne into the Yarra Valley, one of the regions major wine districts.

Our guide explained the history of wine making in the valley which stretches back to the 1850’s. It was Australia’s version of the wild west with various parties making outrageous land claims and amassing thousands of acres, mostly to farm sheep and cattle.

Eventually the new government stepped in and sorted things out.

While the Barossa and McLaren valleys in South Australia along with the Hunter Valley in New South Wales may be better known internationally, the Yarra Valley in Victoria is a key part of the country’s wine industry.

There are over 80 wineries in the Yarra, many with a focus on Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. Rose’s are becoming very popular as well

The valley really isn’t a valley in the truest sense being more of a plain before getting to the hills/mountains.

The valley is in the midst of a major summer drought and is a dry crispy brown and yellow.

The vineyards create a green oasis on this landscape.

Interestingly, kangaroos are a problem as they love to eat the grapes. Hence many vines are covered in netting.

We visited three wineries, each offering their unique flavors. St. Hubert’s, Rochford and Stefani all produce modest quantities so their distribution is limited to Victoria and New South Wales.

Our day also included a visit to a chocolate factory. We tasted a dozen different flavors and learned about the process of making chocolate. Excellent and delicious.

Late afternoon return to Melbourne and another day done. Our evening exploring a part of Melbourne was eye opening on how to get the most out of commercial space. That’s our next stop.