Murrumbateman Wineries

Just a 30-minute drive from Canberra, the Murrumbateman wine region is a hidden gem of cool-climate winemaking, where rolling hills are dotted with cellar doors that feel more like welcoming farmhouses than slick tasting rooms. This is a place to slow down, chat with the vintner, and savour shiraz and riesling that thrive in the region's crisp, high-altitude air. The vibe is relaxed and unpretentious — perfect for a self-drive day trip or a leisurely stop on a longer journey through the Southern Highlands.

Highlights & What to See

• Brindabella Hills Winery — A standout for its elegant shiraz and a cellar door with sweeping views over the Murrumbateman Valley. The knowledgeable staff make tasting a genuine education in cool-climate winemaking.
• Clonakilla — Arguably the region's most famous name, renowned for its groundbreaking shiraz-viognier blend. Book ahead to taste the wines that put Murrumbateman on the international map.
• Helm Wines — A family-run operation specialising in riesling. The tasting room is a rustic shed, but the wines are world-class — try the classic dry riesling and the off-dry for a perfect picnic pairing.
• Murrumbateman Village Walk — After a few tastings, stretch your legs along the easy village walk, which passes historic buildings and offers a glimpse into the area's gold-rush past.
• Local produce at cellar doors — Many wineries offer cheese platters or partner with nearby producers. Don't miss the olive oils and artisanal breads that complement the wines beautifully.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors allocate a full day to explore Murrumbateman's wineries — there are around 15 cellar doors, so you'll want to pick 4–6 favourites rather than trying to see them all. Start mid-morning, break for a relaxed lunch at a winery café (Clonakilla and Brindabella Hills both have excellent options), and wind down in the late afternoon. If you're based in Canberra, it's an easy half-day trip, but you'll appreciate the unhurried pace of a full day. Designate a driver or book a guided tour to fully enjoy the tastings.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra — Australia's capital is just a 30-minute drive, offering world-class museums, galleries, and dining. Combine a wine tour with a visit to the Australian War Memorial or the National Gallery.
• Yass — A charming historic town 15 minutes north, with a lovely main street of antique shops, bakeries, and the Yass Valley Railway. Perfect for a morning wander before hitting the wineries.
• Lake George — A striking, often dry lake on the way from Canberra. The eerie landscape and the historic Cullerin Range lookout make for a scenic photo stop.
• Southern Highlands — Drive an hour north to Bowral and Berrima for more cool-climate gardens, antique shopping, and the famous Berkelouw Book Barn.

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