Donnybrae is just down the road from some of Victoria’s best wineries, offering a tipple for every palate.
Here are some of our favourites!
Five Vineyard.
The Vella family moved to their Mernda farm in 1997. Originally a cattle farm, in 2016 they did some research and discovered that the slope of their land and the quality of their soil was perfect for wine growing and now the family has planted chardonnay, pinot noir, shiraz and Sangiovese grapes. Since then, they’ve planted vines, built a wine making facility and created a stunning winery, restaurant and function space on their Bridge Inn Road farm. A trip to Five Vineyard is definitely ‘must do’ stop on any grape grazing itinerary.
https://pantonhillwinery.com.au/
Yarrambat Estate.
This charming boutique family owned and run vineyard is tucked away in the rolling hills of Yarrambat, on western border of the Yarra Valley wine region. Its wines are made with grapes carefully grown, hand-picked and pruned from its single vineyard Estate, and crafted using traditional wine making techniques into an elegant range of superb wines that express the essence of their origin.
https://yarrambatestatevineyard.com/
Panton Hill Winery.
Good wine, simple, quality food and stunning architecture make Panton Hill Winery a popular place to visit on weekends. On any open day expect to enjoy an interesting and enjoyable wine tasting of a wide range of quality, traditionally produced, estate wines. The onsite restaurant is also the perfect place to relax any time, with good wine, good food and good friends…and family of course. With an open fire during winter and a sunny (or shaded) courtyard in summer, what more could you want?
https://pantonhillwinery.com.au/
Marnong Estate.
History buffs and good food and wine enthusiasts alike will love Marnong Estate at Mickleham, just 10 minutes’ drive from Donnybrae. Part of WJT Clarke’s Bank Vale Run Station in Melbourne’s North, the historic mid-19th century homestead has been restored to its former glory and now houses a heritage resort, restaurant, vineyard and brewery.
The resort’s fine dining restaurant, La Vètta, is the place to go to for family gatherings, intimate dinners, a wine or cocktail at the bar, or to simply relax with an espresso and cake in the lounge. Cucina 3064 is the place to experience authentic pizzas and pastas inspired by Italy’s rich culinary traditions, while the outdoor picnic tables and umbrellas at Café Vista provide the perfect setting to relax and breathe in some of the Marnong fresh air and be enchanted by sweeping views from the summit.
The Cellar Door at Marnong Estate is the perfect place to drop in and taste the full range of Marnong Estate wines, along with a great selection of local wines from the Sunbury and Macedon regions. Open Wednesday – Sunday from 10AM – 6PM.
