Weekend in the Rutherglen
Here's a suggested itinerary for a weekend in the Rutherglen wine region of Victoria, known for its fortified wines, historic vineyards, and charming small-town atmosphere:
Day 1: Arrival and Wine Tasting
Morning: Arrive in Rutherglen: Check into your accommodation. Consider staying at a local bed and breakfast, a boutique hotel, or a vineyard cottage for a unique experience.
Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a popular local spot like Pickled Sisters Café, known for its hearty breakfast and warm hospitality.
Late Morning: Wine Tasting at Campbells Wines: Begin your wine journey at Campbells Wines, a fifth-generation family winery. Sample their renowned Muscat and Topaque, and enjoy a guided tour of their historic cellars.
Lunch: Lunch at All Saints Estate: Head to All Saints Estate for a lunch experience in their Terrace Restaurant, which offers a modern menu featuring local produce and estate wines. Enjoy views of the vineyards and castle-like architecture.
Afternoon: Visit Pfeiffer Wines: Continue your wine tasting at Pfeiffer Wines, set along the banks of Sunday Creek. This winery is known for its beautiful picnic grounds and variety of wines, including their famous fortified wines.
Evening: Dinner at Tuileries Restaurant: Enjoy dinner at Tuileries, located within the historic Rutherglen Wine Experience complex. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu paired with local wines, providing a perfect ending to your first day.
Day 2: Exploring More Wineries and Local Attractions
Morning: Breakfast at Your Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your accommodation or venture out to a local café.
Late Morning: Wine Tasting at Stanton & Killeen Wines: Start your day with a visit to Stanton & Killeen, known for its Portuguese varietals and aged Muscats. Enjoy a wine tasting, and explore their beautiful gardens.
Midday: Visit Morris Wines: Head to Morris Wines, one of the region's oldest wineries, renowned for its fortified wines. Take a guided tour of their historic cellars and sample their wide range of wines.
Lunch: Picnic Lunch at Rutherglen Park: Grab some local produce from the Rutherglen Farmers Market (if visiting on a market day) or a local deli, and enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch at Rutherglen Park.
Afternoon: Explore Rutherglen Main Street: Wander through Rutherglen's charming main street, visit local boutiques, galleries, and antique shops, or stop by the Rutherglen Wine Experience and Visitor Information Centre for insights into the region's history.
Wine Tasting at Scion Vineyard & Winery: End your afternoon with a visit to Scion Vineyard, a boutique winery known for its innovative approach to winemaking. Enjoy their handcrafted wines, including Durif and Rosé, in a relaxed setting.
Evening: Dinner at Jones Winery & Vineyard: Head to Jones Winery for dinner at their French-inspired restaurant, where you can enjoy a mix of French and local cuisine, paired with their estate wines.
Day 3: Relaxation and Final Stops
Morning: Breakfast at The Pickled Sisters Café: Return to this local favorite for a final breakfast, or try a different café for variety.
Late Morning: Visit Cofield Wines: Make a stop at Cofield Wines, a family-run winery known for its sparkling wines and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy a tasting, and perhaps pick up a bottle or two to take home.
Midday: Walk or Cycle the Rutherglen Wine Walk/Cycle Trail: Spend some time walking or cycling along the Rutherglen Wine Walk/Cycle Trail, a scenic route that winds through vineyards and along the Murray River.
Lunch: Lunch at a Local Café or Winery: Have a relaxed lunch at a local café or return to a winery for a casual meal.
Afternoon: Depart Rutherglen: Begin your journey home, taking with you a selection of local wines and memories of a delightful weekend in one of Victoria’s premier wine regions. Enjoy your weekend in Rutherglen!