The Best Wineries Within Reach of Cape Paterson

Purple Hen winery, Rhyll

It’s no secret that South Gippsland and the Bass Coast are home to an abundance of exquisite food and wine destinations, from the ones set amongst the rolling lush hills to those overlooking the picturesque coastline. When you’re next in the area, it’s a must that you pay a visit to at least one winery - you will not be disappointed. Whilst we could write for hours about all of the activities on our doorstep, we have taken a handful of our favourites to give you the run down on.

Dirty Three, Inverloch

​First stop is the Phillip Island region, known for its optimum growing conditions, it’s no wonder the area is producing wines worthy of awards. Purple Hen winery at Rhyll and Silverwaters vineyard at San Remo are a must. Pino lovers take note, Purple Hen makes an eye-popping Pino, that shows a beautiful nose of dark fruit, oak and spice – and yes, it is an award winner. Purple Hen allows you to enjoy views of Westernport Bay whilst you enjoy a drop and has taken out a number of trophies over the years for Best Pinot, Best Shiraz and Best Red wine. 

Harman Wines, Wattlebank

​Hop in the car and drive a little further, where you’ll find the family owned and run, Harman Wines, situated approximately 6mins north of Inverloch. Harman wines welcomes you to their Winery and Cellar Door to enjoy wine tastings or to just relax to the sound of live music (jump on their website to see when the next musician will be playing) and delicious wood fired pizzas on a Sunday. Harman wines hand crafts several different cooler climate wines on site, which you can read all about, here on their website. 

Dirty Three, Inverloch

​Then comes Dirty Three Wines, an absolute winner in our eyes. Dirty Three stocks Pinot Noir and Riesling wine and you can find their recently opened tasting room here in Inverloch. The ever so friendly and helpful husband and wife duo, Marcus and Lisa are the creators behind this absolute gem, so do yourself a favour and pay a visit the pair in their rustic and vibrant new space. 

Waratah Hills, Fish Creek

​The South Gippsland region also boasts a great variety of wineries. Waratah Hills, which is situated on the iconic roads leading to Wilsons Promontory, has views of the beautiful Hoddle Ranges is located 6km outside the small country township of Fish Creek. Seventeen years ago the vineyard was planted and it’s no surprise that owners Judy and Neil have now founded the perfect pinot noir and chardonnay varieties, which have made their way onto the wine list of some of Australia’s top restaurants. 

Lucinda Estate, Leongatha

​Last but most definitely not least,  Lucinda Estate is what they like to call, “Leongatha’s Best Kept Secret”. The vineyard is planted on the outskirts of Leongatha and is run by a husband and wife team, who provide a true sense of warmth when they welcome you into their cellar door. If wine doesn’t take your fancy, Lucinda Estate are in fact the creators behind Gippsland Cider Co. producing both a pear and apple cider, which provides a refreshing alternative to wine. 

Dirty Three, Inverloch

So, there you have it, a snippet on just some of our favourite Bass Coast and South Gippsland vineyards.
 
Best regards,
​
Brendan Condon
The Cape