The best wineries to visit in Daylesford and beyond

hero media
Uncover Daylesford’s winery gems, offering handcrafted wines, delicious platters, and scenic views.

Why dream of Tuscany or Bordeaux when Australia’s Daylesford region offers a collection of world-class wineries? With options ranging from long lunches overlooking picturesque vineyards to tastings and gourmet platters at cosy cellar doors, you’re spoiled for choice.

Use our guide to plan your ultimate wine-tasting adventure through the top wineries in Daylesford and its surrounding regions.

Daylesford wineries

Beyond the village charm, boutique shopping, and indulgent day spas, the Daylesford region holds another gem—its world-class wineries. With lush landscapes fostering some of the finest vineyards, we’ve gathered our favourite spots to sip and savour wines that are as rich in character as the town itself.

1. Passing Clouds

the grape vines at Passing Clouds, Daylesford
Passing Clouds has been in the premium grape-growing business since 1974. (Image: Nikole Ramsay)

The closest cellar door to Daylesford, Passing Clouds is a family-run vineyard crafting exceptional wines since 1974. Open daily, their cellar door offers a personalised tasting experience, showcasing their acclaimed pinot noir and chardonnay, along with limited-edition varietals.

For a memorable lunch, the estate’s restaurant pairs these elegant wines with chef Cameron McKenzie’s locally inspired dishes. Diners can sip and savour as they take in the tranquil vineyard views, making it the prime setting for a relaxed afternoon in the heart of Musk.

Address: 30 Roddas Lane, Musk

2. Captains Creek Organic Wines

Home to some of Daylesford’s best organic wines, Captains Creek Organic Wines provides a relaxed yet refined experience for the discerning wine lover. From sparkling whites to bold chardonnays, their cellar door showcases the essence of sustainable winemaking. Weekend tastings provide the opportunity to discover their range in a tranquil setting.

Complement your visit with a paddock-to-platter feast at their cafe, where farm-fresh produce and local delicacies shine on shared plates. If you like what you taste, don’t forget to take home your favourite wines, ciders, and regional cheeses to continue the experience.

Address: 120 Kangaroo Hills Road, Blampied

3. Attwoods Wines

people enjoying lunch on the outdoor deck of Attwoods Wines
Enjoy lunch on the al fresco deck.

Set against a backdrop of vines and leafy green spaces, Attwoods Wines is where cool-climate pinot noir and chardonnay thrive. Just ten minutes from Daylesford, this Glenlyon winery is run by passionate grape growers who craft wines that reflect both the vintage and terroir, welcoming visitors to their award-winning cellar door for tastings.

For a laid-back afternoon, relax with a glass of wine on the deck or savour the set menu at their dining room, Le Bouchon. Before you go, don’t miss out on their signature pinot noirs and sought-after 2019 ‘Le Sanglier’ Nebbiolo.

Address: 260 Green Gully Road, Glenlyon

4. Zig Zag Rd Wines

a blurry image of a woman walking inside Zig Zag Rd Wines
Sip on a fresh riesling or a delicate pinot noir. (Image: MAD creative)

Set in the scenic Macedon Ranges, Zig Zag Rd Wines celebrates the essence of cool-climate winemaking. Their handpicked estate-grown grapes, cultivated in basalt-rich soils, produce expressive riesling, pinot noir, and syrah that beautifully embody its natural setting. Tastings at their cellar door offer a personal glimpse into their innovative and seasonal offerings.

For a more relaxed visit, indulge in a pre-ordered picnic filled with local artisanal treats. Whether you’re lounging on the shady deck or the lawn, the whole family—including dogs on a lead—is warmly welcomed.

Address: 201 Zig Zag Road, Drummond North

5. Wombat Forest Winery

an array of wines at Wombat Forest Winery, Daylesford
The beloved winery stocks a selection of Daylesford wines.

Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Wombat State Forest, Wombat Forest Winery offers a serene escape just 15 minutes from Daylesford. Specialising in premium handcrafted wines, their small-batch approach delivers cool-climate reds with refined flavours, aged to perfection in French oak barrels.

Take part in a tasting session at the cellar door, or savour a glass on the deck with sweeping views of the forest. During winter, snuggle up next to the wood fire and enjoy a delicious seasonal platter.

Address: 189 Springhill Road, Denver

Kyneton Wineries

Known for its historic charm and country-style allure, Kyneton is a go-to destination for those seeking a peaceful escape. Its wineries and top-notch eateries, however, are the hidden gems that truly set it apart. Let us introduce you to some of their finest.

5. Musk Lane Wine

a vintage car stopping by Musk Lane Wine, Daylesford
Swing by Musk Lane Wine for a relaxed tasting.

Blending the feel of an urban winery with the charm of a neighbourhood wine bar, Musk Lane Wine provides a laid-back atmosphere in historic Kyneton. Brendan Lane’s small-batch, lo-fi wines are a testament to his passion for crafting authentic, soulful vintages that truly embody Central Victoria.

Pop into the cellar door for a relaxed tasting or unwind in the beer garden with friends over a bottle. On special occasions, a food truck joins the scene, enhancing the casual vibe of this dog-friendly venue where everyone feels at home.

Address: 1 Turner’s Lane, Kyneton

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

6. Kyneton Ridge Estate

Perched among the rolling hills of the Macedon Ranges, Kyneton Ridge Estate invites visitors to experience its blend of small-batch winemaking, art, and local flavours. A seated wine tasting offers a glimpse into the estate’s unique approach, with flights featuring six carefully crafted wines that reflect the season and sustainability practices.

After your tasting, stay for a meal at The Ridge Cafe, where co-owner Angela Wood serves modern Australian dishes with Mediterranean flair. Be sure to explore the Kyneton Ridge Artspace, which showcases rotating exhibitions from emerging and established artists.

Address: 517 Blackhill Road, Kyneton

7. Cleveland Estate

a woman dining at Cleveland Estate
Wine and dine while admiring the picturesque vineyard views.

Within the illustrious Lancemore Estate, Cleveland Estate boasts the region’s only underground cellar door, providing a truly distinctive wine-tasting experience. Surrounded by the luxury accommodations and expansive beauty of the estate, visitors can enjoy an impressive selection of local wines, including their very own vintages.

Once you’ve discovered the underground treasures, savour wood-fired pizzas or a gourmet meal at the onsite restaurant, Carriage House Restaurant, set against the backdrop of the estate’s tranquil vineyards.

Address: 55 Shannons Road, Lancefield

8. Curly Flat Vineyard

Amid the breathtaking landscapes of the Macedon Ranges, Curly Flat Vineyard has been producing top-tier wines since 1989. Under Jenifer Kolkka’s leadership, the estate is celebrated for its refined pinot noir and chardonnay, wines that consistently impress with their complexity and balance.

Visitors are treated to a complimentary tasting of the latest releases, each sip accompanied by engaging stories from the vineyard’s history. With its pet-friendly atmosphere, it’s a haven for wine enthusiasts and dog lovers alike.

Address: 263 Collivers Road, Lancefield

9. Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard

hands holding glasses of wine on the table at Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard
Sip on delicious shiraz. (Image: KGMG Creative)

At Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard, the focus is on letting the land speak through each bottle. The laid-back cellar door offers a warm and inviting setting for visitors to taste superb wines, accompanied by a bit of friendly banter.

Complement your wine with a charcuterie platter filled with locally sourced goodies, or elevate your experience with a sparkling wine workshop. Guided by Brian Martin, this interactive session reveals the art of sparkling wine production and gives you the chance to create your own bottle to enjoy at home.

Address: 362 Pipers Creek-Pastoria Road, Pipers Creek

Macedon Wineries

Venturing a little further afield, the Macedon Ranges region is home to some of Victoria’s most notable wineries. Whether you opt for a wine tour or enlist a designated driver, get ready to indulge in the exquisite flavours of this celebrated wine region.

10. Lyons Will Estate

guests arriving at Lyons Will Estate, Daylesford
Step into the cellar door for a sit-down wine tasting.

Driven by a love for the land, Lyons Will Estate offers a boutique wine experience in the heart of the Macedon Ranges. Every bottle reflects the vineyard’s commitment to sustainability, with winemakers Ollie Rapson and Renata Morello following a hands-off approach that lets the grapes’ natural qualities take centre stage.

Open every weekend, the cellar door offers seated tastings where visitors can sample estate-grown wines and enjoy local produce platters. Keep an eye out for their pop-up events throughout the year.

Address: 60 Whalans Track, Lancefield

11. Hanging Rock Winery

the exterior of Hanging Rock Winery, Macedon Ranges
Come for the wine and stay for the majestic views. (Image: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria)

Hanging Rock Winery, nestled in the Macedon Ranges, combines award-winning wines with incredible natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy complimentary tastings of their signature wines, including the Macedon NV Brut Cuvee and Heathcote Shiraz, guided by passionate staff who bring the wine’s story to life.

Sit back with a local produce platter, filled with cheeses and estate-grown beef, while admiring the view. Don’t miss their annual Art in the Vines sculpture exhibition, adding a creative touch to this already unforgettable winery.

Address: 88 Jim Road, Newham

12. Mount Macedon Winery

the lush surroundings at Mount Macedon Winery, Daylesford
The mountainside winery is set amongst lush greenery. (Image: Alex Colcheedas)

Set off on the forest trail to discover Mount Macedon Winery, a mountainside retreat that artfully combines the rustic charm of the Australian countryside with sleek, contemporary design. From tastings at the cellar door to meals at UUMM restaurant, the focus is always on artisanal wines and fresh, local ingredients, offering a sophisticated and sensory experience.

Elevate your visit with a private wine tasting in The Wine Den, an architecturally designed hideaway tailor-made for an intimate and immersive experience, either before or after your meal at the restaurant.

Address: 433 Bawden Road, Woodend

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

13. Mount Towrong Vineyard

the winery at Mount Towrong Vineyard, Daylesford
Italian heritage meets sustainable winemaking at Mount Towrong Vineyard. (Image: Visit Victoria/Rob Blackburn)

Mount Towrong Vineyard, set between the hills of Mount Macedon and Mount Towrong, offers a charming combination of rustic Italian food and handcrafted wines. Family-owned since 1996, the vineyard produces low-intervention, vegan-friendly wines that perfectly complement their homestyle dishes.

The two-storey cellar door provides a welcoming space for tastings, with stunning views of the vineyard. Whether you’re dining upstairs with sweeping vistas or downstairs by the wood fire, the relaxed atmosphere and delicious food make this venue a must-visit.

Address: 4 Taylors Road, Mount Macedon

14. Granite Hills Wines

a scenic landscape of the vineyard at Granite Hills Wines
Granite Hills Wines rises 550 metres high on the north peaks of the Great Dividing Range.

Renowned for its long-standing excellence, Granite Hills Wines has spent over five decades mastering cool-climate winemaking. With a rich history and countless awards, each estate-grown bottle captures the spirit of the Macedon Ranges and the dedication of two generations of winemakers.

The inviting cellar door, open daily, is ideal for sampling their celebrated wines while enjoying the idyllic surroundings. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic, unwind with a glass of their favourite wine, and embrace a lazy afternoon by the vineyard.

Address: 1481 Burke and Wills Track, Baynton

Distilleries in Daylesford

Daylesford isn’t just for wine lovers—it’s also home to incredible distilleries offering handcrafted spirits, craft beers, and refreshing ciders. Perfect for expanding your liquor-loving palate, here’s a guide to the finest in the area.

 15. Terra Australis Distillery

Located in the historic old Butter Factory on the outskirts of Daylesford, Terra Australis Distillery provides a casual space for visitors to enjoy its handcrafted spirits. The tasting room’s relaxed vibe, featuring plush leather seating and wooden decor, sets the chill tone for sampling their range of botanical gins, smooth vodkas, and herbal liqueurs.

Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or curious about their signature liqueurs, this distillery is the ideal stop for a leisurely afternoon.

Address: Lot 2 Railway Crescent, Daylesford

16. Daylesford Cider

a farmer picking grapes in a vineyard along with a dog at Daylesford Cider
The award-winning ciders are crafted from organic heritage apples grown on the farm. (Image: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria)

At Daylesford Cider, heritage apples and artisanal craftsmanship come together to create some of the region’s finest ciders. Open daily, this English-style tavern offers tastings of their award-winning ciders, ranging from robust to refreshingly light.

Enjoy a cider tasting paddle in the scenic courtyard or retreat indoors by the fire to keep cosy during winter. With a menu featuring cheese boards, charcuterie, and weekend wood-fired pizzas, it offers an all-round delicious day out.

Address: 155 Dairy Flat Road, Musk

17. Hepburn Distillery

a bottle of gin on the leaves at Hepburn Distillery
Join a tasting flight of premium gins at Hepburn Distillery.

Hepburn Distillery is all about crafting high-quality, locally inspired spirits from the ground up. Using organic ingredients and sustainable practices, this family-run distillery handcrafts premium gins, vodkas, and whiskeys with a deep connection to the land. Each spirit is lovingly fermented, distilled, and triple-filtered on-site to ensure top-quality flavours.

A visit to the Daylesford cellar door offers tastings of these award-winning spirits in a cosy, inviting setting. For an immersive experience, try the whiskey-making workshop, where you can create your own spirit and explore the entire distilling process.

Address: 1 Gin Lane, Daylesford

18. Daylesford Brewing Co

wines and spirits on display at Daylesford Brewing Co
Sample estate-grown wines and premium brews.

Established in 2015, Daylesford Brewing Co brings together the love of craft beer and the history of Daylesford. Founders Dave and Jessica have created a brewery that not only celebrates locally brewed beer but also the town they call home. With an ever-changing lineup of handcrafted beers, each visit promises something new.

Visit their inviting taproom, inspired by the gold rush era, for a taste of their latest brews. Pair your beer with dishes designed to complement the flavours, or explore the range of local wines, spirits, and whiskeys.

Address: 97 Vincent Street, Daylesford

Discover the best restaurants in Daylesford.

Want to see more stories from Australian Traveller in your Google search results?

  1. Click here to set Australian Traveller as a preferred source.
  2. Tick the box next to "Australian Traveller". That's it.
Pauline Morrissey

Pauline Morrissey

View profile and articles
hero media

The ultimate spring and summer guide to Melbourne

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

couple inside their room at the westin melbourne
View the city from above in your suite.

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge
Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge.

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea. You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne
There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet, the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river
Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria
See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery, Arc One Gallery, Outre Gallery, Caves Gallery, Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary, allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria. The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne
Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement, Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar, or larger ones, such as The Toff, Forum and Palais Theatre, for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground
Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre
Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.