Seppelt Great Western
Nestled in the picturesque Grampians wine region of Victoria, Australia, Seppelt Great Western is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With a rich heritage dating back to 1851, this iconic winery offers a unique blend of award-winning wines, historic underground cellars, and captivating experiences.
History and Heritage
Seppelt's story began in 1851 when Joseph Seppelt laid the foundations of Seppeltsfield in the Barossa Valley. The Great Western vineyard, originally established by Joseph Best in 1865, was acquired by the Seppelt family in 1918. This merger put the Great Western region on the map, quickly gaining a reputation for exquisite sparkling and table wines.
Award-Winning Wines
Seppelt Great Western produces an extensive selection of highly celebrated wines, including:
Shiraz
Chardonnay
Riesling
Sparkling Shiraz
Under the guidance of lead winemaker Clare Dry, Seppelt continues to maintain its reputation for excellence. The winery has received numerous accolades, with fourteen vintages featured in the 2021 Halliday Highlights. Notably, the Drumborg Vineyard Riesling 2019 earned the title of Best Riesling 2021 with an impressive 98 points.
Cellar Door Experience
Open seven days a week from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Seppelt's historic cellar door showcases the unique personalities of some of Victoria's finest vineyards. Visitors can explore and taste wines from:
Cool Grampians country
Wild Henty hinterland
Famous Cambrian soils of Heathcote
The Drives: Australia's Largest Underground Cellars
A highlight of any visit to Seppelt Great Western is exploring "The Drives" - the largest underground cellars in Australia. This heritage-listed labyrinth was originally excavated in 1868 by local gold miners and extends over 3 kilometers. Guided tours run daily from 11 am to 3 pm, offering a fascinating glimpse into the winery's history.
Dining Experiences
For those looking to complement their wine tasting with culinary delights, Seppelt offers:
A café open for lunch daily
The Seppelt restaurant for private functions and ticketed events on weekends, public holidays, and school holidays
Food enthusiasts can also book the "Dine Deep in the Drives" experience, a gourmet three-course meal served in the atmospheric underground cellars for groups of twelve or more.
Events and Functions
Seppelt Great Western is an ideal venue for special occasions:
Weddings
Corporate events
Private functions
The winery's range of function centers can accommodate up to 400 guests, both seated and standing.
Accommodation
For visitors wishing to extend their stay, the Vine Lodge Homestead offers on-site accommodation, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the winery experience.
## Pioneer of Australian Sparkling Shiraz
As the world's longest-producing maker of sparkling shiraz, Seppelt Great Western offers a unique opportunity to taste this iconic Australian varietal at its source.
A visit to Seppelt Great Western offers wine lovers a perfect blend of history, award-winning wines, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of Victoria's Grampians region. Whether you're interested in underground cellar tours, gourmet dining, or simply tasting some of Australia's finest wines, Seppelt Great Western promises an enriching and enjoyable visit for all wine enthusiasts.