Central Tablelands Wineries

Rolling hills, crisp air, and a cool-climate wine scene that’s quietly earning a reputation for elegance – the Central Tablelands wineries offer a refreshing alternative to the well-trodden Hunter or Barossa valleys. Scattered around Orange, Mudgee, and Cowra, these vineyards thrive at altitude, producing superb Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir. The region’s gold-rush history, farmers’ markets, and farm-gate cellar doors make it a joy to explore at a leisurely pace.

Highlights & What to See

• Orange wine region – Australia’s highest wine region, with more than 40 cellar doors. Don’t miss Philip Shaw Wines for its architectural cellar door and sweeping views, or Rowlee Wines for a boutique tasting experience.
• Mudgee wine trail – A classic country drive past historic villages and family-run vineyards. Stop at Lowe Wines for organic and biodynamic drops, and Robert Oatley Vineyards for a polished tasting room.
• Cowra wine region – Known for its Italian varietals and relaxed vibe. Visit Chardonnay’s spiritual home at Windowrie Estate and try the zesty Vermentino at Kalari Wines.
• Local produce & dining – Pair your wines with artisan cheeses, olives, and truffles from farm gates. Book a table at Lolli Redini in Orange or The Zin House in Mudgee for a true paddock-to-plate feast.
• Cool-climate specialty – Seek out sparkling wines and rosé, which thrive in the cooler nights. Many cellar doors offer vertical tastings of aged vintages.

Suggested Time to Spend

A minimum of two days is ideal to explore the main clusters without rushing. Base yourself in Orange for one day to cover the eastern vineyards, then drive to Mudgee (about 1.5 hours) for a second day of tasting. Add a third day if you want to include Cowra and the historic gold-rush town of Hill End. Plan for no more than four cellar-door visits per day to leave time for long lunches and scenic stops.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Orange – The region’s culinary capital, with a vibrant farmers’ market on Saturdays and excellent restaurants.
• Mudgee – A charming country town with heritage streetscapes, a microbrewery scene, and the nearby Gulgong Pioneer Museum.
• Cowra – Famous for its Japanese Garden and the annual Cowra Wine Show; also a gateway to the Lachlan Valley.
• Hill End – A historic gold-mining village with well-preserved buildings and a fascinating museum, about 45 minutes from Mudgee.
• Bathurst – Known for Mount Panorama motor-racing circuit and a handsome heritage city, an hour’s drive from Orange.

Please check official sources for current details.