King River Estate Wines
King River Estate Wines is a picturesque winery located in the heart of Victoria's King Valley, approximately 30 minutes from Wangaratta in North East Victoria. Established in 1990, this family-run estate has become a beloved destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a taste of the region's Italian-inspired wines and stunning natural beauty.
Location and Setting
Nestled on the banks of the King River, the estate boasts a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and vineyards. The alluvial soil and proximity to the water table provide ideal growing conditions for the vines, resulting in rich, complex wines that showcase the terroir of the King Valley.
Winemaking Philosophy
King River Estate embraces a traditional yet innovative approach to winemaking. The team employs minimal intervention techniques, including:
Using wild yeasts for natural fermentation
Allowing the grapes to express their true personality
Focusing on creating complex, soft, and textural wines
This philosophy has earned them recognition, including a 4-star rating from the Halliday Wine Companion and the title of Best Small Cellar Door 2022 by Gourmet Traveller Wine.
Wine Portfolio
The estate offers an extensive range of wines inspired by old-world styles from France, Italy, and Georgia. Some of their specialties include:
Prosecco
Vermentino
Pinot Grigio
Chardonnay
Sangiovese
Barbera
Sagrantino
Shiraz
Lagrein
Saperavi
Cellar Door Experience
Visitors to King River Estate can enjoy a memorable tasting experience in the charming cellar door, housed in repurposed dairy and tobacco sheds. The cellar door is open:
Thursday to Sunday: 11 am to 5 pm
Monday: By appointment only
Wine tastings are available for $10 per person, refundable upon the purchase of two bottles. Guests can savor their wines in the beautiful shaded garden or indoors by the log fire during cooler months.
Food and Dining
To complement their wines, King River Estate offers a selection of light food options, including:
Dumplings (pork, vegetable, or prawn)
Arancini
Grazing platters
Food is served from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm, allowing visitors to enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the picturesque surroundings.
Events and Special Offerings
Throughout the year, King River Estate participates in various events and extends its opening hours during peak seasons. Wine enthusiasts should check their events page for up-to-date information on special tastings, festivals, and holiday offerings.
King River Estate Wines provides a delightful blend of Italian-inspired wines, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts exploring Victoria's King Valley.