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LOOKING FOR THE BEST GEELONG WINERIES?
You’ve come to the right place! This guide highlights the 15 best wineries in Geelong so you can taste-test all the unique (and delicious) wine this region has to offer.
As locals we love visiting the wineries in Geelong, it’s just so relaxing! So if you’re coming to Geelong we highly recommend checking out at least one winery while you’re here.
In addition to a warm welcome and cellar door prices, many of the wineries also feature a cafe, bistro, or restaurant, and sometimes offer live music.
To help you decide which winery to visit, we’ve put together this list of the best wineries in and around Geelong.
First, we review all the best wineries, then at the end, we provide a handy map so you can see exactly where each one is located.
Ready to discover the best Geelong wineries? Let’s get to it!
15 Best Geelong Wineries
From a vineyard on the Great Ocean Road to the fabulous Moorabool Valley wineries, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to wineries in the Geelong region.
Another vineyard near Geelong is located in the Werribee area, and the on-site restaurant with its own kitchen garden makes this one well worth the trip.
For information about Bellarine wineries, we recommend reading our guide to wineries on the Bellarine Peninsula.
1) Nicol’s Paddock
Found in Waurn Ponds the family-run Nicol’s Paddock boasts a top-rated restaurant as well as a cellar door.
Originally known as Saint Regis, the winery was rebranded as Nicol’s Paddock in 2018 after the next generation took over the day-to-day running of the business.
The grapevines growing here were first planted in 1997 and the limestone-rich soil ensured luscious pinot noir, chardonnay, and shiraz fruits ideal for wine-making.
Four years later, the first batch of Saint Regis Shiraz was produced, and within a few years, the family had added pinot noir and chardonnay to the list.
Visitors can sample Nicol’s Paddock wines at the cellar door, or feast on seasonal, locally sourced produce at the welcoming restaurant.
A dedicated vegan menu ensures everyone can enjoy delicious, freshly prepared dishes – washed down with local wines of course!
Where: 35 Waurn Ponds Drive, Waurn Ponds 3216
When: Thu: 11 a.m – 5 p.m, Fri – Sat: 11 a.m – 10 p.m, Sun: 11 a.m – 5 p.m
Phone: 0432 085 404
2) Provenance Wines Geelong
Provenance means “place of origin” and at Provenance Winery it’s all about where the grapes originate from.
Located at the Old Paper Mills in Fyansford, the winery has a medley of vineyards across southwest Victoria growing varieties of pinot gris, riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir, shiraz, and nebbiolo.
Premium wines take center stage here, featuring a selection that includes whites like a Henty Pinot Gris and a Ballarat Chardonnay. The reds are equally impressive, with options like a Macedon Pinot Noir, Geelong Nebbiolo, and a Golden Plains Rosé.
At the beautifully restored cellar door, you’ll find bright and inviting spaces perfect for socialising while enjoying the signature 45-minute tasting experience.
This includes a wine flight featuring six to eight wines from either the Golden Plains Range or the more expensive Regional Series.
You can also dine at the Provenance restaurant, where modern Australian dishes are prepared with artistry and a firm focus on flavour.
The options include lunchtime and evening tasting menus, ranging from two courses to the eight course Chef’s Selection.
Wine pairings are also available, showing off Provenance Wines of Geelong to their full advantage.
Where: 100 Lower Paper Mills Road, Fyansford 3218
When: Fri: 11 a.m – 4 p.m, Sat & Sun: 11 a.m – 5 p.m
Phone: (03) 5222 3422
3) Mt Duneed Estate
Located in the picturesque Barrabool Hills, Mount Duneed Estate is just 15 minutes by car from Geelong, and around an hour from Melbourne.
This is not only one of the best wineries in the Geelong area, it’s also home to the Barrel Hall restaurant. In fact, Mount Duneed Winery in Geelong serves as an all-purpose venue for the local area.
Concerts are held here, hosting big names in music like The Killers, Crowded House, The Red Hot Chilli Peppers, and even Sir Elton John.
Mount Duneed Estate has three wine ranges, the Geelong Range, a Regional Range, and a Single Vineyard Range, each offering different varietals from different locations.
The range of local Geelong wine produced on-site includes reds like shiraz and pinot noir, whites such as chardonnay and sauvignon blanc, and the estate-grown rosé.
Further varieties from across the Yarra Valley are also used in the making of regional and single vineyard ranges, so there are lots to try when you visit.
The Barrel Hall at Mt Duneed Winery is a relaxed eatery combining rustic country style with a thoroughly modern menu. In the warmer months, the Garden Bar is perfect for relaxing with a drink and a shared plate overlooking the vineyards.
Where: 65 Pettavel Road, Waurn Ponds 3216
When: Thu – Sun: 12 p.m – 5 p.m
Phone: (03) 5266 1244
4) Barwon Ridge Geelong Winery
The Geelong vineyards of Barwon Ridge in the Barabool Hills produce shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, marsanne, pinot noir, and chardonnay grapes.
These are used to produce vegan-friendly, sustainable, and palate-pleasing wines. Sustainability is a priority here and in 2023 Barwon Ridge became the first vineyard in Geelong to receive sustainability certification from Sustainable Winegrowing Australia.
The cellar door at this five-star winery is open during weekends for tastings, and the history of grape-growing here stretches back to the 1840s.
In addition to the range of red and white Barwon Ridge wines, the vineyard produces fortified shiraz, champagne-style sparkling chardonnay, pinot noir, and rosé.
The winery also supplies other local farm produce and makes wine vinegars. In 2017, Pinot Meunier was also reintroduced at Barwon Ridge.
Along with tending carefully to the land and making the best use of its bounty, Barwon Ridge Winery operates a wine club and a shop where you can purchase their affordable fine wines.
Guided tastings also take place here at weekends, so you can fully appreciate every last drop.
Where: 50 Mcmullans Road, Barrabool 3221
When: Sat – Sun: 11 a.m – 4 p.m
Phone: 0418 324 632
5) Yes said the Seal
Located just 10 minutes from Geelong, Yes said the Seal is the only winery on the Bellarine Peninsula we’ve included in this list.
The peninsula has so many fabulous wineries that we’ve dedicated a separate article to them, and we recommend taking a winery tour to make the most of your visit.
Yes said the Seal’s cellar door is located at the fabulous Flying Brick Cider House in Wallington.
It offers an exclusive collection of limited-release cool climate wines that went straight into Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion as a 5-star winery in its first year of release.
The stable of wines includes sparkling blanc de blanc, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, rosé, pinot noir, and shiraz. All are created from the best Bellarine Peninsula fruit including the vines surrounding the cider house.
Visitors can enjoy a guided tasting of Yes said the Seal’s full range of wines at its Flying Brick cellar door. Cider tasting paddles are also available – perfect for any non-wine drinkers in the group.
The cider house also features an onsite restaurant with huge windows that take in the neighbouring vineyards. The menu features seafood and grazing plates as well as burgers and steaks.
Alternatively, you can make use of the huge lawn area that’s perfect for enjoying a cheese platter and a glass of wine on a sunny afternoon. Live music is a regular feature on Friday and Saturday nights.
Where: 1251 – 1269 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington 3222
When: 7 days from 10.00 a.m
Phone: (03) 5250 6577
6) del Rios Winery & Restaurant
Del Rios Winery and Restaurant is a welcoming, family-run winery in the Moorabool Valley, northwest of Geelong.
Positioned on the slopes of a now-defunct volcano, the property has a tasting room and restaurant.
Sharing good wine and food with those you love is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and that’s precisely how the team at this Anakie winery wants you to experience what they have to offer.
A family of five comprising Esther and Gus del Rio and their three sons ensure things run smoothly at del Rios.
They planted the first vines here in 1996, and are dedicated to creating wines and dishes that showcase the Moorabool Valley region and reflect its unique varietal character.
In addition to running one of the finest Geelong wineries restaurants, the winery caters for events and runs a wine club.
The Friday and Saturday night dinners at the restaurant are a particular feature, serving delicious food and wine as the sun sinks over the horizon.
The vineyard and eatery are around 20 minutes drive from town, and whether you dine indoors or out you can marvel at magnificent vineyard views while you eat and drink.
Where: 2290 Geelong-Ballan Road, Anakie 3213
When: Fri: 5 p.m – 9 p.m, Sat: 11.30 a.m – 9.30 p.m, Sun: 11.30 a.m – 5 p.m
Phone: 0482 085 300
7) Clyde Park
Conveniently located on the Midland Highway (read easy to find!), Clyde Park is a must-inclusion on any list of wineries in Geelong and the Moorabool Valley.
Visitors to this beautiful Bannockburn winery can sip on award-winning wines while enjoying views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling green hills.
The winery’s 35 acres of vineyards produce Clyde Park wines crafted from pinot noir, sauvignon blanc, shiraz, pinot gris, and chardonnay grapes.
The vineyard has been James Halliday 5-star rated for a number of years and there are 20 wines available for tasting.
The cellar door has been carefully designed to ensure guests have the best experience possible. Many of the features here have been built using recycled materials sourced from around the state.
A wood burner fireplace is ideal for cosying up to in winter, wine glass in hand, while the outdoor terrace is the perfect spot on a summer’s day.
Dining at the bistro is also a highlight of a visit to Clyde Park, with wood-fired pizzas and local cheeses being a specialty. Sweet and savoury grazing plates are available at the cellar door – try the homemade scones. Yum!
Where: 2490 Midland Hwy Bannockburn 3331
When: Mon – Tues: 11 a.m – 2p.m, Wed – Sat: 10 a.m – 4 p.m, Sun: 10 a.m – 5 p.m
Phone: (03) 5281 7274
8) Lethbridge Wines
Lethbridge Winery has been producing an impressive range of wines for over two decades, and during that time has earned a formidable reputation.
The vineyard has won international acclaim as well as within Australia, and Lethbridge wine is sold globally.
The Lethbridge Estate makes Australian boutique wines from a variety of grapes, including chardonnay, riesling, pinot gris, pinot noir, shiraz, merlot, malbec, and more.
Their Between Five Bells range includes amber and naturally sparkling wines, while the II Modo selection includes Frizzante and Fiano wines.
If you love bubbly, look out for the Nadeson Collis name.
Lethbridge is one of the wineries of the Geelong district offering cellar door tastings, and special events are offered such as a Vintage Experience, ‘Story of Lethbridge’ Masterclass, and a Pinot Affair.
Originally planted in 1874 by immigrants from Switzerland, the vineyards of Lethbridge Wines were replanted in 1996. At first glance, however, you might believe you’re actually in Tuscany…
The owners are committed to sustainability, using biodynamic and organic methods in their winemaking.
They offer not one but a range of wine clubs, including Domaine, Village, Museum, and Estate options. Pretty impressive stuff.
Where: 74 Burrows Road, Lethbridge 3332
When: Mon – Fri: 11 a.m – 4 p.m, Sat: 11 a.m – 5 p.m, Sun: 11 a.m – 4 p.m
Phone: (03) 5281 7279
9) Spence Wines
After being inspired by a European holiday, the team behind Spence Wines took three years to find the ideal location for their vineyard.
Established in the late 1990s, this boutique winery is a relatively small-scale operation. Only grapes from Spence’s own vines are used, and only small batches of each vintage are produced.
Spence Wines is working hard towards biodynamic certification, already harnessing such practices while avoiding herbicides and using only organic sprays.
When making the wines, as little intervention as possible is the ethos at the Spence Winery.
Processes such as natural fermentation using yeast already present on the fruit are adhered to, and the barrels used are made from French oak.
The range produced by Spence Wines includes a natural sparkling rosé, viognier, shiraz, chardonnay, and pinot noir.
There is also a rosé made using shiraz grapes, and many varieties are suitable for vegans.
Where: 760 Burnside Road, Murgheboluc 3221
When: First Sunday of the month: 11 a.m – 5 p.m, or by appointment
Phone: (03) 5265 1181
10) Austin’s Wines
The Austin Winery near Geelong is also set in the Moorabool Valley, with its unique cool climate and fertile limestone soil.
It’s overseen by a second generation of winemakers and is all about sharing great wine with family and friends.
Unusually among wineries in the Geelong region, Austin’s makes both white and rosé prosecco, which is perfect for drinking at any time or to be used in making cocktails.
Other varieties sold include pinot gris, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, riesling pinot noir, shiraz, and the sparkling limited edition Austin’s Cuvee.
The winery caters for weddings and other special events and even offers winemaking workshops. This includes every step, from tending the vines to harvesting, crushing, blending, and bottling.
Regular events are also held to whet your appetite, such as a Pinot Affair, Cheese and Cheers Days, and Armstrong BBQ Catering.
Where: 870 Steiglitz Road, Sutherlands Creek 3331
When: Thursday – Sunday: 11 a.m – 5 p.m
Phone: (03) 5281 1799
11) IDL Wine Co
IDL wine in Moorabool is one of Australia’s largest producers, and wine is just one of the beverages made here.
Private label and branded wines are among the drinks offered, alongside ginger beer, cider, and other drinks.
IDL offers a complete service to its customer base, from development and production to canning, bottling, kegging, and logistics.
Despite the scale of production, responsible use of resources and sustainable practice are all part of the process.
The cellar door is open on weekdays and hosts occasional one-off wine sales for those who’d like to bag a bargain.
Idyll Victoria and Arcadian branded wines are available, including Shiraz, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Durif, Blanc de Blancs, and a Brut Cuvée.
As this winery is just a ten-minute drive from Geelong and offers a range of Victorian wines at great value prices, it’s well worth a visit. Cheers!
Where: 265 Geelong-Ballan Road, Moorabool 3213
When: Mon – Fri: 10 a.m – 4 p.m
Phone: (03) 5228 4888
12) Bellbrae Estate
If it’s Great Ocean Road wineries you want, then the Bellbrae winery can barely be bettered – it can be found right on the famous road itself, just five minutes from Bell’s Beach.
This 5-star winery’s cellar door is open between Wednesday and Sunday and offers tastings and sales.
Special tasting flights can be secured via advance booking and may be accompanied by food such as local wood-fired pizzas, seafood, local produce, and cheese, or chocolate platters.
There’s a range of tasting options to choose from including the Surf Coast Tasting Experience, Bellbrae Experience, the Bells Experience, and the Bellbrae Estate Wine and Pizza Table Experience.
Wines at Bellbrae Estate are categorized into three distinct collections: the flagship Bellbrae Estate wines, the Longboard wines, and the exclusive Museum Release aged wines.
The selection features a matured sparkling shiraz alongside an array of wines crafted from premium grape varieties, including semillon, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, pinot gris, pinot noir, and syrah.
Where: 520 Great Ocean Road, Bellbrae 3228
When: Wed – Thur: 12 p.m – 4 p.m, Fri – Sun: 12 p.m – 5 p.m
Phone: (03) 5264 8480
13) Brown Magpie Wines
Another option for those seeking a Great Ocean Road winery is Brown Magpie Wines in the Modewarre area.
It’s located close to the famous seaside drive in the Surf Coast hinterland region.
The Brown Magpie winery uses only hand-harvested grapes, age-old techniques, and oak barrels to produce its beverages.
The idea is to let the unique properties of the vineyard shine through in each and every drop.
Open daily during January and at weekends between November and April, the cellar door offers sales and tastings of the wine range.
If you’re fortunate, you might even catch a glimpse of the rare brown magpies that call this place home.
A range of red, white, and rosé wines is available for sale and tasting, and these are made from pinot grigio, chardonnay, pinot gris, sauvignon blanc, pinot noir, and shiraz grapes.
Brown Magpie’s history can be traced back to 1998 when the friendly owners Shane and Loretta discovered the 20 hectare site.
Where: 125 Larcombes Road, Modewarre 3240
When: 11 a.m – 4 p.m Sat & Sun November – April, Everyday 27 December – 31 January
Phone: (03) 5266 2147
14) Wolseley Wines
The Wolseley Winery in Paraparap is positioned close to the Great Ocean Road and specilises in boutique wines.
Winemaker Will Wolseley often oversees tastings himself at this small vineyard among the gently rolling hills of Paraparap.
Wolseley Wines is run purely on off-grid solar power and the fact that it’s also 100% organic should be good news for those who like to give pesticides and other additives a wide berth.
The range includes some more unusual varieties too, such as the Semillon Muscadelle and Botrytis Semillon wines in addition to reds made from Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Certain Wolseley Wines vintages can only be purchased at the cellar door, which is perhaps enough of an excuse to visit – should you need one!
Three cabins provide guest quarters at the vineyard too – ideal for those seeking winery accommodation.
These are kitted out for those who love to cook, eat, and drink wine, and can be opened up along one side to experience the natural beauty of the Australian bush.
There is also a party and wedding venue, with a huge outdoor deck jutting out over the dam.
Where: 1790 Hendy Main Road, Paraparap 3240
When: Wednesday – Sunday 11 a.m – 5 p.m
Phone: 0412 990 638
15) Shadowfax Wines
Shadowfax Wines, located in Werribee, is an easy drive down the highway and offers restaurant and event facilities alongside a range of boutique wines.
One of the top attractions in Werribee, this beautiful winery is just a half hour’s drive from Melbourne, making it ideal for city dwellers and Geelong residents or visitors.
If you’re looking for a lunch spot, you’re also in luck, as Shadowfax has an on-site restaurant. Some of the produce is even grown in their kitchen garden. How does Portarlington Mussels linguine, Pinot Noir Braised Duck Breast, or a wood-fired pizza sound?
Fresh herbs and vegetables are used to create mouthwatering combinations that showcase local ingredients, and you can wash it all down with delicious Shadowfax wines.
On weekends, live music enhances the atmosphere, serenading guests as they feast on the finest local food and wines. Shadowfax also caters to weddings and other functions, offering a broad range of cocktail, sit-down reception, and drinks packages.
Shadowfax Vineyard produces top-quality, boutique-style wines. Corporate tastings are available, and wine club members enjoy special deals and discounts, including complimentary tastings at the cellar door.
Where: K Road, Werribee South 3030
When: Wednesday – Sunday 11 a.m – 5 p.m
Phone: (03) 9731 4420
Wineries In Geelong Map
Below we’ve included a map showing you the exact location of each winery listed, so you can easily plan your Geelong winery itinerary.
Final Word
We hope this Geelong wineries list comprising our local favourites has inspired your wine tasting travel in Victoria.
From wineries near Geelong for lunch to those offering incredible cellar door deals, a trip to a vineyard is always worthwhile.
Those viticulturists and winemakers often have a few fascinating tales to tell too.
What could be better than fine wine, good food, great company, stunning views, and entertainment?
Looking for more fun activities in Geelong? Read all our Geelong travel guides here.
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By Audrey Chalmers
Audrey grew up in Victoria and travelled the world but she always called Victoria home. She loves nothing more than exploring her home state and sharing it here.