Granite Hills

Granite Hills Winery is a renowned cool-climate wine producer located in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria, Australia. Established in 1970 by the Knight family, this picturesque vineyard has been crafting exceptional wines for over half a century. Here's what wine enthusiasts can expect when visiting this esteemed winery:

Location and Setting

Perched atop the spectacular boulder-strewn hills of the Great Dividing Range at an altitude of 550 meters, Granite Hills offers breathtaking views and a unique terroir. The winery is situated about 85 kilometers north of Melbourne, making it an ideal day trip destination for wine lovers.

Vineyard and Wines

Granite Hills boasts approximately 12 hectares of vines, producing a diverse range of varietals:

• White wines: Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Grüner Veltliner

• Red wines: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Gamay Noir, and Cabernet Franc

The winery is particularly renowned for its Riesling and Shiraz, with the latter being credited as the birthplace of "Peppery Shiraz" in cool-climate Australia. Their wines have amassed over 500 awards at Australian and international wine shows, cementing Granite Hills' reputation as one of the region's most acclaimed wineries.

Cellar Door Experience

Wine enthusiasts can enjoy a memorable visit to Granite Hills' cellar door, which is open daily from 11 am to 5 pm. Here's what you can expect:

• Tastings: Sample the entire range of wines at no cost, allowing you to explore the diversity of their award-winning varietals and blends.

• Exclusive Wines: Purchase museum and reserve releases that are only available at the cellar door.

• Picnic-Friendly: Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic and enjoy it on the grounds, surrounded by the beautiful vineyard scenery.

• Dog-Friendly: Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.

Wine Club

For those who want to stay connected with Granite Hills, the winery offers an exclusive wine club membership. This provides access to seasonal specials and a delivery service for case orders.

Sustainability and Winemaking Philosophy

Granite Hills is committed to sustainable viticulture, focusing on soil and vine health while moderating yields. Their winemaking philosophy centers on producing wines that respect the terroir, show clear varietal definition, and have the ability to cellar gracefully.

Awards and Recognition

Granite Hills has received numerous accolades, including:

• Five-red star rating from the Halliday Wine Companion

• 37 trophies for their Riesling alone

• The Victorian Trophy for White Wines of Provenance at the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards in 2014 and 2017

Visiting Tips

• No reservations are required for small groups, but larger groups should book in advance.

• While there's no commercial kitchen on-site, visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnic supplies.

• Take time to engage with the winemakers and staff to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the wines.

Granite Hills Winery offers a perfect blend of history, award-winning wines, and stunning scenery, making it a must-visit destination for any wine lover exploring the Macedon Ranges.