Winter Winery Trail: Hidden Gems to Sip and Warm Up in the King Valley
Winter in the King Valley is nothing short of magic. Misty mornings, vine-covered hills, and the comforting warmth of a bold red by the fire. While the region is home to a few big-name wineries, some of the most memorable experiences come from the lesser-known, boutique cellar doors, places where the winemaker might be the one pouring your glass, and where stories flow just as easily as the wine.
This winter, escape the crowds and explore the quieter side of the valley. Here are some of our favourite under-the-radar wineries, all just a short drive from Bluestone Ridge:
1. King River Estate – A Fireside Favourite
Just up the road from Bluestone Ridge, King River Estate is a family-run gem offering a warm and rustic cellar door experience. In winter, it’s all about slow sipping and soaking up the scenery. Their reds are rich, earthy, and perfect for a chilly day, and their Muscat is a must-try if you like something sweeter.
Don’t Miss: A tasting by the fireplace and a bottle of Shiraz to take back to your accommodation.
2. La Cantina – Preservative-Free and Packed with Heart
Tucked away in Myrrhee, La Cantina is one of the few wineries in the region making preservative-free wines using traditional Italian winemaking methods. It’s an unpretentious, down-to-earth spot where you’re likely to be greeted by the owners themselves, and their Sangiovese and Nebbiolo are beautifully suited to the winter season.
Don’t Miss: A chat with the winemaker and a bottle of Nebbiolo for your next pasta night. 3.
3. Darling Estate – Small Batch, Big Personality
Darling Estate may be small, but it delivers big when it comes to flavour and charm. Their boutique wines are thoughtfully made, and the tasting experience is personal and relaxed. If you enjoy discovering lesser-known labels and supporting passionate producers, this one’s for you.
Don’t Miss: Their red blend and the quiet, off-the-beaten-path vibe.
4. Politini Wines - Sicilian Warmth in the High Country
Politini is a small, family-owned winery bringing a touch of Sicilian tradition to the King Valley. Their handcrafted wines are made with Italian varietals like Nero d’Avola and Vermentino, and
their cellar door is a beautiful spot to spend a winter afternoon, especially if you time it with one of their seasonal events or cooking experiences.
Don’t Miss: Their Nero d’Avola and the house-made Sicilian-style treats on offer during events.
5. Red Feet Wines – Small-Batch and Seriously Good
A boutique family-run winery just outside Whitfield, Red Feet Wines is known for its minimal-intervention winemaking and laid-back cellar door. They focus on letting the fruit and the region speak for themselves, and it shows in every bottle. Their reds are ideal for winter, especially the Sangiovese and Syrah. The tasting experience here is relaxed, personal, and deeply rooted in local pride.
Don’t Miss: Their Syrah on a cold day, or a Sangiovese enjoyed slowly by the fire at home.
6. Sam Miranda – A Modern Cellar Door with Hidden Depth
With its striking modern architecture and underground barrel rooms, Sam Miranda offers a cellar door experience that blends style with substance. It’s less crowded than some of the larger wineries, but still full of warmth and local flavour. Their Italian varietals and fortified range are perfect for winter tastings.
Don’t Miss: Their fortified Dolcetto or aged Tempranillo on a cool afternoon. Tips for Your Winter Wine Trail:
● Call ahead: Smaller cellar doors may have reduced hours in winter.
● Plan your route: Many are tucked away along scenic country roads, part of the adventure!
● Bring a few layers: It’s chilly outside, but cosy indoors.
Winter is one of the best times to explore the King Valley, especially if you’re up for discovering the stories, families, and flavours behind the region’s boutique wineries. After a day of tastings and toasty cellars, Bluestone Ridge is the perfect place to unwind, sip your new favourite red, and soak up the peace and quiet of the valley.