The Shoalhaven wine region stretches from Kiama to Milton and out towards Kangaroo Valley. It’s situated just inland from the coast and is quickly becoming one of Australia’s most well-known and popular wine growing areas, with many delectable wineries around to explore.
The region produces a wide array of grape varieties that are held to a top-quality standard and made into premium wines - many of which have been formally acknowledged, winning over 1000 Australian and International wine awards.
So today, we will be taking you on a virtual trip around some of the best wineries that the unique Shoalhaven region has to offer, and some of the best wines to pick up along the way.
Coolangatta Estate Winery
This winery dates all the way back to 1822 and sits in the foothills of Mount Coolangatta. It’s built in a grand European style that is surrounded not only by sprawling vineyards but beautifully landscaped grounds and convict-built cottages. The Coolangatta estate offers a complete experience where visitors can embark on self-guided history tours, enjoy wine-tasting, visit the cellar door, eat in the specialised restaurant or stay at the historic accommodation.
One of the great wines to come out of the Coolangatta Estate includes the 2014 Tannat which features strong notes of blackberry and a peculiar mix of vegemite. It’s a savoury showstopper that is deep in colour with a strong tannic structure. Described as a “umami bomb” this red is full of character and has pertinent savoury aromas that will be sure to knock the socks off your palate (in the best way of course).
Cambewarra Estate Winery
This estate is a second-generation family run winery which sits at the foothills of the beautiful Cambewarra mountain. The estate features a bed and breakfast accommodation as well as high tea, a restaurant and stunning outdoor surroundings. This family run winery focuses on quality rather than quantity, with a selection of award-winning wines and something to suit everyone.
A wine to try at the Cambewarra Estate is the 2016 Chambourcin called ‘The Michael’. This medium bodied wine uses Chambourcin grapes, a French variety that is well-known for being the grape of the Shoalhaven Coast. ‘The Michael’ is similar to a light Shiraz and packs a punch with its bright colour and aromatic bouquet of peppery notes and florals. This is the perfect red wine to accompany a dinner of lamb or duck.
Yarrawa Estate
Situated upon the hills of the Upper Kangaroo Valley escarpment, this winery offers a relaxed atmosphere with superb wines and stunning views. The hillside vineyard was established in 1998 and is run by a lovely couple who as well as their wines, also produce homemade nuts, jams, pickles and olive oil. They have a large array of wines to choose from, all offering something unique in their taste.
One of the Yarrawa Estate’s most popular wines is the sparkling Pinot, which is popular due to its uniqueness. It is an aperitif style wine with a crisp finish. It is a sparkling red wine that is made in a traditional champenoise style that features hints of strawberry, stone fruit and biscuits. The rich palate of this wine is offset by its fresh sparkle and creamy mouth feel.
