Time To Wine Down: Canberra’s Best Wineries

We all know Canberra is the home of politics, but it is also the home of over 30 wineries within 35 minutes drive of the city. Wineries are fast becoming a popular destination for people who want to relax and taste locally sourced wine, or have a meal and enjoy a glass or two. I went out to find the best wineries in the Canberra region based on the wine, atmosphere and service.

Mount Majura Vineyard

If you are looking at value for money this is the place to go. Located in North East Canberra, Mount Majura Vineyard gives you a range of wines to taste from with generous serving sizes. Their knowledgeable staff explain each wine that you are tasting and give you plenty of time before they bring out the next taste testers. For $10 you get to try eight of their best wines ranging from sparkling wine and dry whites, to reds and sweet wines. You can sit in the warmth of their inside seating area, or venture outside (if the sound of cars and trucks driving along the Majura Parkway doesn’t make you wine).

P.S If they ask you to dispose of your wine how you like, don’t throw it on the grass; use the buckets provided.

Wine: 3.5/5 Atmosphere: 3/5 Service: 4/5

Shaw Vineyard

Boasting a wine tasting cellar as well as the Olleyville restaurant, Shaw Vineyard will cater to all your needs from wine tasting to platers and lunch. On a short 30 minute drive to Murrumbateman you can enjoy the countryside and find yourself in a quiet place without the hustle and bustle of the city. Their wine is crisp and refreshing, and at a cheap $5 to taste their most popular wines, it is an offer too good to refuse. The staff at Shaw Vineyard are exceptional and make you feel at home.

Wine: 4.5/5 Atmosphere: 4.5/5 Service: 5/5

Brindabella Hills Vineyard

Brindabella Hills is located on a hill above the Murrumbidgee and has magnificent sweeping views of the Brindabella range (you have to see it to believe it). You can try their wines at their cellar door tastings, or you can buy a bottle of wine and a cheese platter from the cafe and enjoy the view. They have live music that isn’t irritatingly loud which makes for a beautiful afternoon.

Wine: 4/5 Atmosphere: 4/5 Service: 3/5

Pialligo Estate Canberra

For a winery that is located so close to the city, you don’t feel like you are in Canberra. The amazing views and country feel is very relaxing. It is a very popular spot with a very aesthetic interior and exterior. Because they are so busy their customer service wasn’t of high standard as they cater for big functions, as well as holding wine tastings and running a restaurant that is open to the public allday. Their wine makes up for this as it is crisp with a dry aftertaste. You can even see Parliament House and Black Mountain Tower from the comfort of your seat.