Alpine Valley – Click to enlarge
Alpine Valley – Click to enlarge
The Alpine Valley wine region is just three and a half hours from Melbourne in the North East Victoria wine zone. The wine zone borders New South Wales and is shared with Rutherglen, King Valley, Beechworth and Glenrowan.
The region has a relatively short but vibrant history. The wine industry in the Alpine Valley region began to take shape in the 1980s when a small number of pioneering winemakers recognized the region’s potential for cool-climate viticulture. Inspired by the success of neighbouring wine regions, such as the King Valley and Beechworth, they planted vineyards and established wineries. Over the years, the region has steadily grown in reputation and recognition. Winemakers in the region have focused on understanding the unique terroir and matching grape varieties to specific microclimates within the region.
Sitting near the foothills of the Victorian Alps, the region consists of four valleys created by the Ovens, Buffalo, Buckland and Kiewa rivers, which create a unique climate so much so sub-regions may be created in the future. The nearby mountains influence the climate, providing cool temperatures and a long growing season. The region has one of the highest annual rainfall levels, second only to parts of Tasmania.
The Alpine Valley is home to several boutique wineries and family-owned vineyards. These producers often focus on small-batch production, allowing them to carefully craft their wines and showcase the region’s unique characteristics. Many winemakers in the Alpine Valley region have embraced sustainable viticultural practices. The region’s pristine environment and commitment to environmental stewardship have led to an emphasis on sustainable grape growing, including practices such as minimal intervention, organic farming, and biodiversity preservation.
Some notable wineries include Feathertop Winery and Ringer Reef Winery.
