Whether you consider yourself a vino aficionado or just love a casual tipple, there’s one spot in Victoria that all wine drinkers should visit at one point in their adult life: Tahbilk Winery.
Located on the traditional lands of the Taungurung People within the Nagambie Lakes district, this esteemed property was first established way back in 1860 – making it the oldest family owned vineyard in all of Victoria. The name comes from the Indigenous word tabilk-tabilk, which means ‘place of many waterholes’. It’s a fitting title for the site, which is encircled by lakes, billabongs and creeks, and boasts a unique soil type that is rich in iron oxide. This close waterfront proximity can have its downsides, though – you may remember the devastating floods of 2022, which completely submerged one-third of the vines. (Although this did result in the limited-edition 2023 Flood Blend, which is a wonderful – and tasty – example of the Tahbilk team's resilience and determination.)
Owned and run by the Purbrick family since 1925, sustainability, local job creation, cultural heritage preservation and land conservation have long been a focus here. Where possible, organic practices are adopted to tend to the soil and vines, and it's one of only eight global wineries to achieve carbon-neutral certification. It’s this ongoing commitment to a better, more responsible winemaking future that sets Tahbilk apart.
So what types of vino is the vineyard best known for? You may be surprised to hear that it’s the home of marsanne, a rare grape varietal that originated in France’s Rhône wine region. It was first planted in 1927, and these particular vines are thought to be some of the oldest in the world. Tahbilk also does a cracking viognier, riesling, chardy and sparkling, while the standout reds include the shiraz, cabernet sauvignon and grenache.
Our hot tip? Purchase the cane cut marsanne, a bottle of bubbles and add some soda water and you’ve got the ultimate summer Spritz (you can thank us later).
Drinking wine isn’t the only thing you can do at Tahbilk – although it is highly encouraged. The on-site restaurant is open daily, serving up a delicious spread of dishes that celebrate the local growers, producers and makers of the Goulburn Valley. Think a baked barramundi fillet with hazelnut crumb or a chargrilled lamb backstrap with pumpkin purée, lentils and pomegranate. On the weekend you can get brunch, and there’s plenty to snack on in the form of share plates. If you snag a prime table on the deck, you’ll be treated to views across the wetland.
Other exclusive experiences you can enjoy include a wine blending masterclass, ghost tours and a four-hour cultural tour with wawa biik. Tahbilk is also currently playing host to Stella the Stargazer – a custom-built, off-grid accommodation that’s nestled on one of the property’s most picturesque riverbends.
Now, who’s thirsty for a trip to Tahbilk? For more information, head to the website.