{"id":4599,"date":"2021-07-06T08:05:26","date_gmt":"2021-07-05T22:05:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/?p=4599"},"modified":"2024-02-07T08:32:57","modified_gmt":"2024-02-06T22:32:57","slug":"best-orange-wineries","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/best-orange-wineries\/","title":{"rendered":"11+ Best wineries in Orange, NSW [2024]"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
The wineries in Orange, NSW, have made a name for themselves over the past few years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The region is located only a 4-hour drive west of Sydney and is home to over 60 spectacular wineries. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
After spending a few days in Orange, overindulging in the region’s best local produce and sipping on a few too many glasses of wine, I\u2019ve sussed out the best Orange wineries and detailed them all in this mega guide.<\/p>\n\n\n
\nColmar Estate has one of the best views<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
About Orange wineries<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Orange is Australia’s highest-altitude wine-producing region. It’s nestled at the base of Mount Canobolas, an extinct volcano providing fertile and mineral-rich soil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This cool climate wine region is known for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. But, as I recently discovered, the wineries in Orange have a bit of something for everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From boutique, family-owned vineyards to large commercial operations (and everything in between), Orange makes for the perfect boozy weekend away.<\/p>\n\n\n
\nEvery detail is considered at Nashdale Lane<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
11+ Best Orange Wineries<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Here are my top choices for the best wineries in Orange. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Word of Mouth Wines: Most authentic winery in Orange<\/h3>\n\n\n\nWord of Mouth Wines<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\n
Tasting fee: <\/strong>$20 for 5 tastings<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Highlight: <\/strong>Everything – the cheese board is a winner<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Downsides: <\/strong>$20 per person (but so worth it)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Recommended if<\/strong>\u2026 you enjoy boutique wineries<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Word of Mouth Wines is a small, intimate vineyard sitting at a cool 1 013 meters above sea level. It tops my list as one of the best wineries in Orange and is a favourite amongst locals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the moment you step foot onto the property and walk down the cobblestone pathway, you\u2019ll notice something special about this place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The resident dog will welcome you at the front door and he\u2019ll come to say hi during the tasting to make sure you\u2019re happy. The charming atmosphere coupled with its quirky decor and rustic artwork, make Word of Mouth Wines a winner in my eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The winemakers have a sustainable approach to winemaking and refer to their process as slow or traditional winemaking, with no fertilizers or insecticides used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The wines here are on the more expensive side and range from $45-$75 per bottle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The tasting<\/h4>\n\n\n
\nTasting the Fluffy Sparkling at Word of Mouth Wines<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
The cellar door at Word of Mouth Wines looks onto a beautiful outdoor courtyard, ideal for a warm summer’s day. But during winter, I was more than happy to enjoy the comfort and cosiness of the indoor tasting room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The wines consist mostly of gorgeous white varieties. The tasting starts with their signature Fluffy Sparkling, a delicious sparkling wine named after the owner’s furry friend. I can confirm that the Fluffy Sparkling is magnificent and pairs well with the yummy jam tart served with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Next up, there’s the Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon, all presented perfectly and served by the owner himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cheeseboard<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The wine tasting at Word of Mouth Wines comes complete with a few complimentary treats, including bread and dips. You can also choose from a variety of meats, cheeses and olives and build your own board for a small extra charge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The selection is very impressive and well-priced, so if you\u2019re only planning on having one cheeseboard during your Orange winery tour, make sure you have it here. This could also double up as your lunch spot!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Printhie Wines<\/h3>\n\n\n\nViews from Printhie Wines cellar door<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\n
Tasting fee: <\/strong>Standard tasting $10 for 6 tastings | Premium tasting $30 for 7 tastings<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Highlight:<\/strong> Wine tasting in the shed<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Downside:<\/strong> They don’t currently offer cheese boards with their tastings<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Recommended if<\/strong>\u2026 you enjoy a rustic, barnyard setting<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Printhie Vineyard in Orange is nestled among orchids and olive groves and sits alongside a small dam overlooking the rolling hills in the distance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But then you step into the old barn and are transported to a different world. It\u2019s cosy and rustic with a hustle and bustle in the air<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The indoor setting is just awesome! With wine barrels as tables and fairy lights covering the ceiling, there’s no denying that Printhie Wines has one of the best cellar doors in Orange.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The tasting<\/h4>\n\n\n\nThe Printhie cellar door oozes character<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
We opted for the Premium tasting experience which included some of Printhie\u2019s finest wines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The tasting starts with 2 varieties from the Swift Sparkling range. These have won several trophies and medals and have been voted the best sparkling in New South Wales for two years in a row.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both are delicious, but at $120 for the Swift Sparkling Blanc de Blancs, it\u2019s a bit out of my price range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luckily, Printhie offers more affordable wine to suit all budgets, and at $22 for the Mountain Range, it\u2019s great value for money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We were also treated to the Chardonnay and Shiraz from their Topography and Super Duper range. The Super Duper Chardonnay and Shiraz certainly lived up to their name as both were vibrant and easy-drinking, but I was equally impressed with the Topography range, which sells for $32 a bottle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Nashdale Lane: Best Orange winery with accommodation<\/h3>\n\n\n\nNashdale Lane Winery in Orange<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Tasting fee:<\/strong> $10 for standard tasting | $20 for a Premium tasting of 7 tastings<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Highlight: <\/strong>The Rose<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Downside: <\/strong>They don’t currently offer cheeseboards with their tastings<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Recommended if<\/strong>\u2026 you\u2019re looking to meet the friendliest winemakers in Orange<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Nashdale Lane is a small, family-run winery in Orange. The husband-and-wife duo made this place so special and left a lasting impression on us. They\u2019re passionate winemakers and have created a beautiful experience for their guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cellar door is found in an old apple-picking shed and is easily identified by its corrugated iron exterior and concrete floors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is rustic meets contemporary – and I love it! If you’re looking for the best wine tasting in Orange, it’s here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To top it off, luxury glamping accommodation is available just a stone’s throw away from the cellar door. If you\u2019re looking for an authentic country getaway with vineyards on your doorstep, you\u2019re going to love this place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The tasting<\/h4>\n\n\n
\nWine time!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
Nashdale Lane offers an indoor or outdoor tasting experience with upgrades to the tasting, which is presented at the cellar door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The wines from Nashdale Lane are amazing – or maybe that\u2019s because I had tasted over 20 wines before arriving. I was also impressed with the price, with most of their wines costing between $30 and $40.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the tasting, we were treated to 7 wines. The Colour Series Riesling and Chardonnay were top class, and their \u201cSocial\u201d Rose was one of the best Rose\u2019s I\u2019ve had.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019m not generally a fan of Tempranillo, but the variety from Nashdale Lane was easy on the palate. The Legacy Pinot Noir, with its rich tannic structure, is also a crowd favourite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ending the tasting with \u201cThe Social\u201d Rouge, a medium-full-bodied Shiraz – Merlot blend, was the highlight, and I was very tempted to leave with a few cases to take home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Mortimer’s Wine<\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe cellar door at Mortimer’s Wines<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Tasting fee: <\/strong>$10 for 10 tastings (Redeemable upon purchase)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Highlight: <\/strong>10 tastings<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Downsides: <\/strong>The wines aren’t as good as other wines from Orange<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Recommended for<\/strong>\u2026 a good time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Peter Mortimer made a name for himself in Rugby League. After hanging up his boots, he decided to pursue winemaking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fast forward a few years, and Mortimer is now one of the most popular Orange wineries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The property itself isn\u2019t much to write home about and doesn\u2019t overlook vineyards or rolling hills, as is the case with some of its neighbours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But what it lacks in views, it sure makes up for in atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mortimer’s often feature live music in their outdoor courtyard, so if you\u2019re visiting on a Saturday, be sure to call ahead and check if they have any events scheduled for the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Overall, the wines from Mortimer were ok, so if you\u2019re looking for the best wines in Orange, you may want to give this a skip. But the tasting experience was one to remember!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The tasting<\/h4>\n\n\n
\nTasting number 2 of 10!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
With a cosy fireplace and friendly staff, visiting Mortimer’s cellar door was a fun addition to my Orange wine tour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As you\u2019ll soon realize with most wine tastings, the portions are relatively small and the experience is intimate – each group is looked after by a sommelier. At Mortimer, it\u2019s different – or perhaps long weekends and busy Saturdays are the exceptions!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instead of the sommelier speaking to guests\u2019 individually, he did one big tasting for the room of 12 people. At first, this seemed a bit rushed, but I quickly realized that we had 10 tastings to get through and with only 45 minutes, we had to drink up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The host was fun and engaging and really added to the vibrant atmosphere and cheerful vibe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mortimer’s Wines are also not shy about the size of their tastings! Needless to say, after 10 reasonably big tastings of sparkling wines, chardonnay, rose, shiraz and merlot, I left with a swing in my step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The price of their wines is competitive, and I purchased a bottle of the Chestnut Garth Merlot for $38 (but I could redeem $10 from the tasting price).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Heifer Station Wines: Best for families<\/h3>\n\n\n\nHeifer Station Wines<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Tasting fee: <\/strong>$15<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Highlight: <\/strong>You can purchase a bottle of wine to enjoy outside<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Downside: <\/strong>Quite busy and commercialized, but it operates like a well-oiled machine<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Set on an old cattle farm and rising to an altitude of 900 m, Heifer Station is one of the most famous wineries in Orange.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It has a bit of everything, from a charming cellar door to outdoor seating alongside the vineyards and even a petting zoo, home to alpacas, chickens, goats and a pony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As you can imagine, the property is big and has been divided into a few sections, all with an authentic farmyard ambience for guests to enjoy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Old Woolshed is my favourite area, but the Barrel Shed offers sweeping views of the country garden from its floor-to-ceiling windows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The experience<\/h4>\n\n\n\nInside the Barrel Shed at Heifer Station Wines<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Heifer Station Wines cellar door is absolutely stunning!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Old Woolshed, converted to a cellar door, is furnished with leather couches, a wood-burning fireplace and stunning wooden beams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Group bookings are limited to 6 people in their cellar door, but bigger groups can opt to join their tastings in the Barrel Shed as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During summer or spring, you might want to head to the Barrel Deck or you can hang out in their gardens and be treated to your tasting outside. But if it was my choice, I\u2019d recommend the Old Woolshed<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The best thing about Heifer Station is that you don\u2019t have to do a tasting. They allow you to reserve a table for 2 hours, the perfect amount of time to indulge in their delicious cheese boards ($35) and a bottle of vino.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We were lucky to get the best seat in the house on a freezing cold winter day – next to the fireplace!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Swinging Bridge<\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe outdoor tasting area at Swinging Bridge<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Tasting fee: <\/strong>Standard tastings $15 for 5 wines | Premium tasting $20 for 8 wines<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Highlight: <\/strong>Delicious cheese board and canapes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Downside: <\/strong>Nothing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Recommended for<\/strong>\u2026 quality wines, both red and white<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Swinging Bridge is a beautiful, medium-sized winery offering panoramic views toward Mount Canobolas from its cellar door windows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s picture-perfect, with a level of sophistication added to it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As you enter the gates, you\u2019re surrounded by vineyards in every direction you look. The cellar door boasts an indoor seating area, a beautiful outdoor verandah as well as a premium tent ensuring ample space to accommodate guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s not quite as commercialized as the likes of Heifer Station, but their wines pack a punch and are the biggest drawcard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Swinging Bridge winery is known for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz. And I can attest that their wines are top-notch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When comparing them to the other Orange vineyards, I\u2019d say Swinging Bridge had the best selection of high-quality, elegant varieties, from crisp, clean whites to full-bodied reds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The tasting<\/h4>\n\n\n\nStarting the day just right – wine and cheese pairing at Swinging Bridge<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
The tasting experience at Swinging Bridge is extremely professional with much care and thought going into the presentation of their wines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They also offer cheese boards and canpes to complement their wine tasting. This was our first cheeseboard of the day and it set the bar really high. With a selection of cheeses and walnuts paired with delicious peach jam and smooth hummus, all made by the in-house chef, you can\u2019t go wrong with this!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We opted for the standard tasting which included an exceptional range of handcrafted red and whites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The William J Shiraz, named after the winemakers’ son, stole the show and I also thoroughly enjoyed the #006 Tempinot, both of which cost $35.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
7. Colmar Estate: Best views (and sparkling wines)<\/h3>\n\n\n\nColmar Estate in Orange<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Tasting fee:<\/strong> $10 for 6 wines (redeemable upon purchase)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Highlight: <\/strong>The best sparkling wine of all Orange wineries<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Downside:<\/strong> The cellar door lacked character<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Recommended for<\/strong>\u2026 those wanting to purchase an affordable sparkling wine<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Sitting at a cool 980 meters, Colmar Estate is a 6-hectare vineyard offering pure, elegant wines with a single focus on quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The boutique winery makes use of exclusively hand-picked, pristine grapes, resulting in some of the finest wines in Orange.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Colmar has been recognised for the quality of its wines and has numerous awards to its name. This has propelled the estate to the forefront of winemaking in Orange.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And if it’s views you\u2019re after, I\u2019d say Colmar also wins this one (yes, the sweeping views of the vineyards beat that of Swinging Bridge).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, with elegant tasting wines, gorgeous views and friendly staff, you\u2019d be wondering why Colmar isn\u2019t at the top of my Orange winery list? Unfortunately, the cellar door itself lacked character and charm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The tasting<\/h4>\n\n\n\nColmar Estate<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
The tasting at Colmar consists of six wines, most of which are white varieties. Overall, it was one of the most detailed experiences of all the Orange wineries that we visited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The sommelier is passionate about what she does and has great knowledge of their wines and the region. This passion is reinforced by the owner, Jane, who was also present during our visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The 2017 Brut Rose is outstanding and arguably the best sparkling wine in Orange. At $48 a bottle, guests were leaving with cases! Yes, it is that good and if you\u2019re a fan of Sparkling wines, I recommend you visit Colmar Estate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Riesling and Chardonnay were crisp and fresh – both under $35. And while I\u2019m not normally a fan of Pinot Noir, I found Colmar\u2019s to be worthy of the handful of awards it has won over the past few years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other Top Wineries in Orange<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Stockmans Ridge:<\/strong> A local favourite with live events, BBQ areas and more<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Philip Shaw Wines: <\/strong>One of the biggest and most popular wineries in Orange<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Strawhouse Wines:<\/strong> Hidden gem recommended by our driver<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Ross Hill Wines: <\/strong>Australia’s only carbon-neutral winery & vineyards<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nThe yummy cheese board at Word of Mouth Wines<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Tips For Visiting the Best Wineries in Orange<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Book your tastings in advance. Especially over long weekends and holidays as people are often turned away.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Be prepared to pay $10-$20 per seating which will include 4-8 wine tastings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Each tasting lasts 45 minutes. And allow for 15 minutes travel time between the Orange vineyards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Most cafes and restaurants in Orange are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
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