The 12 secret Aussie wine regions you need to visit now

By Emily Murphy
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Sip your way through Australia’s best-kept secrets.

Australia’s best wine experiences are hidden far from the crowds. This Easter, ditch the familiar wine trails and uncover something truly special. New research conducted by YouGov reveals that 88 per cent of Aussies want to explore lesser-known wine regions, and these hidden vines are waiting to be discovered.

Millennials and Gen Z are leading this wine revolution, prioritising high-quality, unique wine experiences. Visitors from Asia are also discovering these hidden gems, with Chinese tourists alone up by 82 per cent this year.

From offbeat cellar doors to quirky stays, Airbnb and wine expert Mike Bennie have handpicked Australia’s best undiscovered wine regions ready for your next grape escape. Here’s where you need to go.

1. Southern Highlands, NSW

Artemis Wines in the Southern Highlands

Artemis Wines is renowned for its pinot noir.

Just a short drive from Sydney, the Southern Highlands offer cosy cellar doors and cool-climate wines. Enjoy artisanal tastings at Artemis Wines, renowned for its pinot noir and welcoming atmosphere or indulge at Joadja Estate, the Southern Highlands’ oldest winery.

Where to stay: Sauna Haus, a luxurious Scandinavian-inspired retreat perfect for relaxing after a day of tastings.

2. Canberra District, ACT/NSW

The Barlow Tiny House in Canberra wine district

Stay at Barlow Tiny House after a day exploring vineyards. (Image: Em Callaghan)

Steeped in history and rolling hills, Canberra District boasts celebrated wineries like Helm Wines, home to award-winning riesling. Don’t miss Ravensworth for its organic approach to premium wines.

Where to stay: The charming Barlow Tiny House, perfectly nestled among scenic vineyards and farmland.

3. South Gippsland, Vic

Jacky Winter Waters in Soth Gippsland

Jacky Winter Waters is a funky stay in South Gippsland.

South Gippsland offers boutique vineyards and stunning coastal beauty. Visit Bass River Winery for exquisite pinot noir and chardonnay, or The Wine Farm for elevated, sustainable wines.

Where to stay: Jacky Winter Waters, a meditative beachfront retreat in Walkerville North.

4. Macedon Ranges, Vic

Shadowfax Wines in the Macedon Ranges

Enjoy Shadowfax Wines’ cool-climate offerings.

Discover Macedon’s elegant wines, farmers’ markets and artistic heritage. Visit Cobaw Ridge Winery for biodynamic practices and Shadowfax Wines for standout cool-climate offerings.

Where to stay: Willowglade Retreat, a peaceful garden sanctuary in Mount Macedon.

5. Granite Belt, Qld

Granite Belt cyclist vineyards

Cycle from cellar door to cellar door in the Granite Belt. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Granite Belt is Queensland’s premier wine destination and offers a lush subtropical climate and bold wines. Boireann excels in robust reds, while Ravenscroft introduces rare grape varieties.

Where to stay: Mossy Rock Cabin in Stanthorpe, surrounded by serene natural beauty.

6. Coonawarra, SA

Bellweather cellar door in Coonawarra

Taste from the barrel at Bellweather. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

World-famous for its cabernet sauvignon, Coonawarra provides rich red wines and historic charm. Visit Bellwether for immersive cellar door experiences or Raidis Estate for modern winemaking.

Where to stay: Winemakers House at The Blok, offering romantic vineyard views.

7. Riverland, SA

Wigley Retreat Airbnb in Riverland SA

Wigley Retreat is a great place to base yourself.

Perfect for family getaways, Riverland blends picturesque river views with biodynamic vineyards. Visit Whistling Kite Wines for tastings paired with local produce or 919 Wines for exceptional fortified wines.

Where to stay: Wigley Retreat, a secluded riverside sanctuary.

8. Mount Gambier, SA

Good Intentions Wine Co.

Stop in for a tipple at Good Intentions Wine Co. (Image: Ben McMahon)

Known for vibrant arts and striking volcanic landscapes, Mount Gambier also offers innovative wines. Taste expressive vintages at Good Intentions Wine Co. or Limus Wine.

Where to stay: Heinlen on North Terrace, combining heritage charm with luxurious comfort.

9. Great Southern Region, WA

Paul Nelson Wines in WA's Great Southern Region

Visit Paul Nelson Wines by appointment.

One of Australia’s most diverse wine regions, Great Southern blends coastal beauty with quality wines. Paul Nelson Wines offers intimate tastings by appointment, while Oranje Tractor Wines delivers eco-friendly experiences.

Where to stay: Lotti’s House boasts stunning views of Albany’s harbour.

10. Southern Forests (Manjimup and Pemberton), WA

The Grove at Ryans Rest in WA's Southern Forests

Go off-grid at The Grove at Ryans Rest.

Escape to this lush agricultural haven and taste wines deeply connected to their region. Peos Estate offers a wide range of styles, while Truffle Hill Wines pairs truffles and vintages expertly.

Where to stay: The Grove at Ryans Rest, an off-grid tiny house nestled in ancient forests.

11. Swan Valley, WA

Group picnic at Nikola Estate in the Swan Valley WA

Nikola Estate provides innovative wine selections.

As WA’s oldest wine region, Swan Valley combines rich history with delightful gourmet experiences. Harris Organic produces exceptional fortified wines and Nikola Estate provides innovative wine selections.

Where to stay: The Carriage, a lovingly restored train carriage from circa 1901.

12. East Coast, Tas

Holland House Bay of Fires

Slow mornings are encouraged at Holland House Bay of Fires. (Image: Adam Gibson)

Tasmania’s East Coast offers pristine beaches and stunning cellar doors. Sample cool-climate wines at Devil’s Corner, famed for panoramic views, or explore heritage-listed Spring Vale Vineyards.

Where to stay: Holland House Bay of Fires offers stylish, beachfront relaxation.

Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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