In the hills of North East Victoria, where granite soils meet mountain air, a small wine region is quietly rewriting the story of Australian cool-climate wine…one distinctive bottle at a time. We may be compact, but our impact is bold, and the evolution remarkable.
It all began with just a few pioneering vignerons and two key varieties: Chardonnay and Shiraz. Our early producers: Smith (1978), Kinzbrunner (1982), and the Morris (1982) families all saw something special in the region’s soils, slopes, and altitude. They were right. Their vision has laid the groundwork for a new generation of winemakers – curious, skilled, and ready to push boundaries. Read more about the vignerons here.
In the past 15 years, Beechworth has undergone a quiet revolution. A new wave of producers has emerged, bringing with them fresh ideas, sustainable practices, and an appetite for diversity. Alongside the region’s now-iconic Chardonnays and Syrah-styled Shiraz, you’ll now find Mediterranean and Spanish varieties like Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, and Tempranillo flourishing in carefully selected sites. Sparkling wines, textural whites, and distinctive red blends round out a portfolio as varied as the landscape itself – all crafted within a 20-minute radius. Check out the map here.
At the heart of Beechworth’s wine identity is a commitment to site. Winemakers here don’t just grow grapes; they listen to the land. Varieties are chosen with precision, matched to slopes, soils, and microclimates that amplify their best traits. This site-specific philosophy has become a defining feature, setting Beechworth apart in both quality and character. View our region’s geology map here.
Today, Beechworth represents a balance of tradition and bold reinvention. Thoughtful farming, small-batch craftsmanship, and a respect for terroir drive every vintage. Whether you’re tasting a cellar-aged Syrah, a vibrant alternative red, or a crystalline Chardonnay, each wine offers a glimpse into our region’s depth, personality, and future.
Discover and experience Beechworth – where innovation meets terroir, and every bottle tells a story worth sharing. Come up for a visit – it’s worth the drive!