Lake Moodemere Estate

Description

Lake Moodemere Estate isn’t just another winery – it’s a slice of Australian viticultural history that’s been perfecting its craft since 1886. As one of North East Victoria’s pioneering vineyards, this place has seen more seasons than most of us have had hot dinners. And boy, does it show in their wines!

Now, I’m no sommelier, but even I can appreciate a good drop when I taste one. These folks have managed to snag a spot in Australia’s Top 50 Vineyards for four years running (2021-2024). That’s no small feat, let me tell you. It’s like making the finals of MasterChef four times in a row – pretty darn impressive.

But wait, there’s more! The estate isn’t just about wine (though that’d be reason enough to visit). They’ve also got a restaurant that’s caught the eye of some pretty fancy food critics. The Age Good Food Guide 2024 gave them a nod, and they were Critics’ Choice in 2023. So, if you’re the type who likes to pair your vino with some top-notch nosh, you’re in for a treat.

And get this – they’ve even got accommodation on-site. Gourmet Traveller named them the Best Cellar Door with Accommodation in 2022. Now that’s what I call a hat-trick!

But here’s the real kicker – Lake Moodemere Estate isn’t just about making great wine and food. They’re doing it sustainably too. They’re the first Certified Sustainable vineyard in the region. So while you’re sipping on their single vineyard wines, you can feel good knowing you’re supporting a business that cares about the environment.

Now, I’ve got to be honest with you. Not everyone’s experience here has been perfect. A handful of folks have had less-than-stellar visits. But the vast majority? They’re singing Lake Moodemere’s praises from the rooftops. And let’s face it, you can’t please everyone all the time. That’s just life, isn’t it?

So, if you’re looking for a winery experience that goes beyond just tasting notes and terroir, Lake Moodemere Estate might just be your ticket. It’s got history, sustainability, award-winning wine and food, and a place to rest your head at the end of it all. Plus, it’s set against the backdrop of beautiful North East Victoria. What more could you ask for?

Key Features

• Single Vineyard wines from vines dating back to 1886
• First Certified Sustainable vineyard in North East Victoria
• Award-winning restaurant with recognition from The Age Good Food Guide
• On-site accommodation, perfect for a wine country getaway
• Australian Top 50 Vineyard for four consecutive years (2021-2024)
• Gourmet Traveller Best Cellar Door with Accommodation 2022 winner
• Rich historical background spanning over a century
• Picturesque North East Victorian setting
• Versatile venue suitable for events and weddings
• Commitment to sustainable practices in winemaking

Best Time to Visit

Alright, let’s talk timing. When’s the best time to hit up Lake Moodemere Estate? Well, that’s a bit like asking when’s the best time to eat chocolate – anytime’s a good time, really! But if you’re looking to maximize your experience, I’ve got a few insider tips for you.

First off, let’s consider the seasons. Victoria’s North East region has a pretty diverse climate, which is great news for wine lovers. Each season brings something special to the table – or should I say, to the glass?

Spring (September to November) is a personal favorite of mine. The vines are just waking up from their winter nap, and the whole place feels alive with possibility. You’ll see tiny buds appearing on the vines, and the air is filled with that fresh, green scent that just screams “new beginnings”. Plus, the weather’s usually pretty mild – perfect for outdoor wine tastings without melting in the sun.

Summer (December to February) is when things really heat up – literally and figuratively. The vines are in full swing, and the grapes are soaking up all that glorious sunshine. It’s a great time to enjoy the estate’s outdoor areas, maybe with a crisp white wine in hand. Just be prepared for some hot days – but hey, that’s what the wine’s for, right?

Autumn (March to May) is harvest time, and let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the buzz of vintage season. The air is filled with the sweet smell of ripe grapes, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the harvest in action. The changing colors of the leaves add a whole new dimension to the already stunning landscape. It’s pure magic.

Winter (June to August) might seem like an odd choice, but hear me out. There’s something incredibly cozy about sipping a full-bodied red by a roaring fire while the rain patters outside. Plus, it’s the quietest season, so you’ll have more chance of nabbing a spot in their restaurant or accommodation without battling the crowds.

Now, if you’re a real wine enthusiast, you might want to time your visit with one of the region’s wine festivals. The Rutherglen Winery Walkabout in June is a biggie, and while Lake Moodemere Estate isn’t in Rutherglen proper, it’s close enough that you could make it part of a wider wine tour.

But here’s a pro tip: if you can, try to visit mid-week. Weekends can get pretty busy, especially during peak seasons. A Tuesday or Wednesday visit might mean you get more personalized attention in the cellar door, and a better chance of nabbing a table at their in-demand restaurant.

Remember though, Lake Moodemere Estate isn’t just about the wine. They host events throughout the year, from weddings to special dinners. So it’s always worth checking their events calendar before you plan your trip. You might just stumble upon a unique experience that takes your visit from great to unforgettable.

In the end, there’s no bad time to visit Lake Moodemere Estate. Each season, each month, even each day brings its own unique charm. So pick a time that works for you, and get ready for a corker of an experience!

How to Get There

Alright, adventure seekers, let’s talk about how to get your wine-loving self to Lake Moodemere Estate. Now, I’m not gonna lie – this isn’t exactly a hop, skip, and a jump from the big smoke. But trust me, the journey is part of the fun!

First things first, you’re gonna want to point yourself towards North East Victoria. If you’re coming from Melbourne (and let’s face it, a lot of you probably are), you’re looking at about a 3-hour drive. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Three hours? I could be halfway to Sydney in that time!” But hear me out. This isn’t just any old drive. This is a journey through some of Victoria’s most beautiful countryside.

You’ll want to hop on the Hume Freeway and head north. It’s a pretty straightforward drive, but don’t get too comfortable – you don’t want to miss your turn-off! Once you hit Wangaratta, you’re getting close. From there, you’ll need to take the Great Alpine Road towards Myrtleford.

Now, here’s where it gets a bit tricky. Lake Moodemere Estate isn’t exactly on the main drag. You’ll need to keep your eyes peeled for the signs pointing you towards Wahgunyah. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but that’s part of its charm, right?

If you’re more of a public transport kind of person, I’ve got some good news and some bad news. The good news is, you can get a train from Melbourne to Wangaratta. The bad news? That’s as far as the train will take you. From there, you’ll need to arrange a taxi or a rideshare to get you the rest of the way. It’s doable, but it’ll take some planning.

For those of you coming from interstate, the nearest airport is Albury. From there, you’re looking at about a 30-minute drive. Not too shabby, eh?

Now, here’s a little insider tip for you. If you’re making a day of it (and why wouldn’t you?), consider hiring a driver or joining a wine tour. That way, you can sample all the delicious wines without worrying about who’s going to be the designated driver. Plus, the local drivers know all the best back roads and secret spots. It’s like having a personal tour guide!

And hey, if you’re feeling really fancy, why not look into helicopter tours? Some companies offer wine tours by chopper, giving you a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape before dropping you right at the cellar door. Now that’s what I call arriving in style!

Whatever way you choose to get there, just remember – the journey to Lake Moodemere Estate is all part of the experience. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. And if you get a little lost along the way? Well, that’s just part of the adventure!

Tips for Visiting

Alright, folks, gather ’round. I’m about to drop some pearls of wisdom that’ll help you make the most of your visit to Lake Moodemere Estate. Consider this your insider’s guide to nailing your wine country experience.

First up, let’s talk timing. I know I’ve already waxed lyrical about the best seasons to visit, but here’s a hot tip: try to avoid weekends if you can. I know, I know, weekends are when most of us have free time. But trust me on this one. Weekdays are when you’ll get the real VIP treatment. The cellar door is less crowded, the staff have more time to chat, and you might even score a table at the restaurant without booking weeks in advance.

Speaking of the restaurant, do yourself a favor and book ahead. This isn’t your local pub where you can just rock up and hope for the best. These guys have won awards for their food, and word has gotten out. So if you want to taste what all the fuss is about (and believe me, you do), get that reservation locked in.

Now, let’s talk attire. This isn’t the place for your Sunday best. Remember, you’re visiting a working vineyard. Comfortable shoes are a must – you might be doing some walking between the cellar door, restaurant, and vines. And if you’re visiting in summer, don’t forget your hat and sunscreen. Those vineyard rows offer less shade than you might think.

Here’s a pro tip: bring a cooler bag or esky. If you fall in love with their wines (and let’s be real, you probably will), you’re going to want to take some home. A cooler will keep your precious cargo at the right temperature on the drive back.

If you’re a real wine enthusiast, consider booking a vineyard tour. It’s one thing to taste the wines, but it’s a whole other experience to see where they come from. Plus, you’ll get to geek out with the winemakers about things like soil composition and grape varieties. It’s like Disneyland for wine nerds!

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – spitting. Yes, it might seem a bit uncouth, but if you’re planning on tasting a lot of wines, spitting is your friend. The staff won’t be offended, I promise. In fact, they’ll probably be impressed by your professionalism. And your liver will thank you later.

If you’re staying overnight (which I highly recommend – their accommodation is top-notch), pack a good book or some board games. This isn’t the place for wild parties. It’s about relaxing, unwinding, and maybe having a deep and meaningful conversation over a bottle of their finest red.

Lastly, and this is important: be open to new experiences. Sure, you might think you only like Shiraz, but give that Viognier a go. You never know, you might discover your new favorite wine. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. The staff at Lake Moodemere Estate are passionate about what they do, and they love sharing that passion with visitors.

Oh, and one more thing – don’t forget your camera. The estate is drop-dead gorgeous, and you’re going to want to capture some memories. Just try not to spend the whole time looking at it through a lens. Sometimes, the best memories are the ones we make when we’re fully present in the moment.

So there you have it, folks. Your insider’s guide to nailing your visit to Lake Moodemere Estate. Now go forth and wine!

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