Your Winter Weekend Guide to Rutherglen

Check into the historical Mount Ophir Estate, an 1891 country estate set on 56 hectares of vineyard and farmland. Take a leisurely walking tour around the property, which is especially enchanting during the golden hour of winter evenings. The crisp air and tranquil winter landscape add a magical touch. Explore the heritage-listed winery on the hill, originally owned by London wine merchants, the Burgoyne family.

Kickstart your Rutherglen retreat with an easy barbecue dinner under the clear, starry winter night sky at your accommodation. Settle in, enjoy the cosy warmth, and soak up the serene atmosphere, perhaps with a glass of mulled wine in hand.

Start your morning slow with a lie-in and a breakfast "at home." Enjoy the inclusive breakfast featuring local sourdough, butter, spreads, muesli, milk, tea, and coffee. The chilly winter mornings are perfect for staying in bed, or sitting by the fire just a little longer and savouring the still before a day of activities.

Wrap up warmly and embark on the Tommy McRae Track (Murray River Trail), either walking or cycling, to immerse yourself in nature. Traverse behind the old vines at All Saints Estate from Granthams Bend to Wahgunyah, experiencing beautiful river gums, wetlands, and the majestic Murray River. The winter scenery adds a serene and peaceful vibe to this walk, with the cool air invigorating your senses.

Head to St Leonards Vineyard, a picturesque cellar door hidden away on a bend of the Murray River. Explore their aromatic and modern wine styles, including skin-contact whites and chilled reds, which are perfect even in the cooler months. Open every Saturday and Sunday and serves antipasto platters all year round.

Experience the charm of Rutherglen with a cosy night out at the Victoria Hotel Rutherglen. Enjoy delicious small plates or the speciality steak, paired with local wines that are perfect for the winter season. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a winter evening.

Balance out the indulgence with a brisk morning in Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park. The winter air is crisp and refreshing as you traverse beautiful mountain views and vibrant flora. The park's serene winter landscape offers a perfect escape into nature.

Our winery tours unveil the rich tapestry of All Saints Estate, founded in 1864, amidst Shiraz vines dating back to 1998. Wander through history with a complimentary glass of wine and witness Victoria's oldest Chinese Dormitory and 1880s open-air vats. Immerse yourself in the Family Cellar's treasures and award-winning wines aged in century-old barrels. The warm, intimate tasting room is the perfect place to enjoy rich, full-bodied wines during the cooler months.

For lunch, choose between Bonnie, offering casual pizza and outdoor dining perfect for families and groups of friends, or KIN (2024 Age Good Food Guide New Regional Restaurant of the Year and One Hat), known for its intimate setting and modern culinary offerings. In the winter, Bonnie’s outdoor dining area is equipped with heaters to ensure a cosy meal while enjoying the crisp air and picturesque vineyard views. KIN provides a warm and inviting indoor atmosphere, perfect for savouring a leisurely lunch amidst the sophisticated modern Australian decor.

Following lunch, head to All Saints Estate’s newly renovated Cellar Door to taste icons of the region. Don’t miss signature drops like the Family Cellar Marsanne, Shiraz, and world-class Muscats. The cosy, heated tasting room features a large wrap-around bar with three premium tasting experiences on offer (Estate, Family Cellar and Fortified). Enjoy the warmth and intimate ambience as you sample these exceptional wines. Walk-ins are welcome for groups of five or fewer people, making it an easy and delightful stop on your winter itinerary.