There’s no shortage of vineyards and wineries to enjoy in the Canberra region, including Contentious Character (pictured). Photo: Supplied.
Canberra’s wine region is thriving. It is home to cellar doors that offer indulgent food experiences to match their wines, from wood-fired pizzas to fine dining. With such a range of delights (almost) on our doorstep, why not grab your friends, hop in the car and get ready to savour the fruits of the region? Here are some of our top picks of places to visit if you’d like to dine among the vines.
Contentious Character Winery
8 Norton Rd Wamboin
Contentious Character is nestled in a picturesque location in Wamboin, between Canberra and Lake George, around 30 km from the centre of the city. You can enjoy a drink, snack or substantial meal on the veranda or inside. Either way, you’ll have sweeping views that extend right to the Snowy Mountains.
Enjoy a selection of artisanal cheeses, Contentious chutney, fresh house-baked breads and fruit.
There’s a selection of gourmet delights to enjoy, featuring wood-fired dishes that will warm your soul – think rich seasonal dishes based on local produce. And if you’re a sweet tooth, you’ve come to the right place. And how good does a Golden Gaytime sound? With caramel semifreddo, chocolate and caramel biscuit. Check out the full menu here.
Lerida Estate
87 The Vineyards Rd, Collector
Lerida Estate is in a gorgeous setting overlooking Lake George, just off the Federal Highway. Onsite dining venue Café Lerida is a lovely place to enjoy a gourmet pie or charcuterie plate while you sip on the estate’s excellent wines. Take a look at the menu here. There’s also locally sourced gourmet produce for sale if you’d like to take some goodies home with you.
Olleyville at Shaw Vineyard Estate
34 Isabel Dr, Murrumbateman
Picture-perfect entrance to Olleyville. Photo: Sophia Brady.
Take a drive out to Murrumbateman and you’ll find Olleyville, a restaurant that offers everything from traditional meals to shared plates to family feasts and the chance to cosy up in front of a magnificent wood fire.
If you’re after something light, there are antipasto platters, cheese boards made with local farm produce and pastries baked by an in-house pastry chef. And all the food offerings can be perfectly paired with one of the cool climate wines the vineyard is known for. Take a look at the menu here.
Bella’s Restaurant at Tallagandra Hill Winery
1692 Murrumbateman Rd, Gundaroo
Bella’s is around half an hour from Canberra, near Gundaroo. The My Kitchen Rules season 2 winner serves up meals designed to highlight the flavours and aromas of Tallagandra Hill’s wines. The menu takes inspiration from heartfelt country-style cooking in wine-producing regions across the globe. Expect plenty of bountiful local produce, and flavours boosted by native Australian herbs and spices.
Murrumbateman Winery
131 McIntosh Cct, Murrumbateman
Murrumbateman Winery is just half an hour’s drive from Canberra, and not only can you sample delicious wines and a tasty lunch, but you can bring your dog as well. So while you tuck into olives, dips, cheese plates, tasting platters or a scrumptious shared lunch, your pooch can enjoy the serenity in an environment where dogs are actively encouraged.
Murrumbateman Winery has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Photo: Glynis Quinlan.
Do you have a favourite winery to visit or a locally produced wine that is so good you think everyone should know about it? Let us know in the comments.
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