Sydney is home to several wine regions that offer some of Australia’s best wines. Whilst the Hunter Valley has international fame, there are several other wine regions that produce exceptional drops and offer intimate wine tasting experiences. Many of the best wineries near Sydney are within a couple of hours drive, so you don’t have to venture too far to sample some of NSW’s best wines. However, we’ve included some in regions that are further afield in places such as the Hunter Valley, Mudgee, Orange and even Canberra just in case.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the must-see wineries, as well as some boutique ones that offer something special. No matter what you’re looking for, we’ll have the perfect winery near Sydney for you.
The best wineries near Sydney
1. Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard (Hunter Valley)
Distance from Sydney: Approximately 2 hours’ drive
AudreyWilkinson.com.au
Perched atop a picturesque hill in the Hunter Valley, Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard offers sweeping views of rolling vineyards and the majestic Brokenback Range. Not only is it one of the best wineries near Sydney, it has one of the best views in the Hunter Valley.
Renowned for its heritage and award-winning wines, this historic estate invites visitors to indulge in tastings of premium Semillon, Chardonnay, and Shiraz amidst stunning surroundings.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
2. Centennial Vineyards (Southern Highlands)
Distance from Sydney: Less than 2 hours’ drive
Centennial.net.au
The Southern Highlands isn’t an area that people immediately associate with wine-making, but it’s home to several of the states best hidden gems. Centennial specialises in cool-climate varietals and specialises in Reisling, Pinot Noir and several sparkling wines.
Situated in Bowral, the grounds of centennial are beautiful and you can indulge in their wines in either the guided tastings at their cellar door or simply enjoy a glass of wine on their terrace.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
3. Clonakilla Winery (Canberra District)
Distance from Sydney: Just over 3 hours’ drive
Clonakilla.com.au
Canberra isn’t a region many people think of for wine, but it has a few that are well worth the journey to check out. Clonakilla is another cool-climate vineyard that is known for its innovative blends. You can visit for tastings and it makes an interesting escape from the capital as you head into the rural side of Canberra.
Renowned for its Shiraz Viognier and Riesling, this acclaimed estate offers tastings that showcase the region’s distinct terroir and winemaking expertise.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
4. Philip Shaw Wines (Orange)
Distance from Sydney: Approximately 3.5 hours’ drive
PhillipShaw.com.au
Orange is home to several incredible wineries, but our pick is Philip Shaw Wines. Their high-altitude vineyards produce wines of exceptional quality and character. The cellar door makes for a interesting wine tasting experience where you can choose to simply wine taste or pair it with a local food plate.
From crisp Sauvignon Blanc to velvety Pinot Noir, each varietal that Philip Shaw produces reflects the estate’s dedication to crafting expressive wines that capture the essence of the surrounding landscape.
5. Scarborough Wine Co. (Hunter Valley)
Distance from Sydney: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes’ drive
ScarboroughWine.com.au
One of the most famous wineries in the Hunter Valley, Scarborough stands as a testament to the region’s winemaking prowess and dedication to quality. Founded in 1987, this family-owned estate has garnered acclaim for its premium cool-climate wines, particularly its revered Chardonnays and Semillons.
Visitors to Scarborough are treated to a quintessential Hunter Valley experience, with tastings held in a rustic cellar door overlooking picturesque landscapes.
The estate’s commitment to sustainability and tradition shines through in every sip, making Scarborough Wine Co. a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of the Hunter Valley’s finest offerings, all within a leisurely drive from Sydney.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
6. Bendooley Estate (Southern Highlands)
Distance from Sydney: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes’ drive
BendooleyEstate.com.au
Another gem in the Southern Highlands, Bendooley Estate offers a charming setting for wine lovers seeking a delightful escape from Sydney. Paired with the Berkelouw Book Shop, Bendooley is a place that has something for everyone. You can enjoy wine tasting at the estate, or enjoy lunch within the bookshop as you’re surrounded by shelves of literature.
This picturesque estate boasts sprawling vineyards and a historic homestead, where visitors can sample a selection of cool-climate wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Merlot.
With its tranquil ambiance and scenic beauty, Bendooley Estate promises a memorable wine tasting experience just a short drive from the city.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
7. Tintilla Estate (Hunter Valley)
Distance from Sydney: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes’ drive
Tintilla.com.au
Founded in 1994 by the Stanlake family, Tintilla is a picturesque estate is renowned for its dedication to crafting premium, handcrafted wines that showcase the region’s unique terroir.
Specializing in Italian varietals such as Sangiovese and Nebbiolo, Tintilla Estate offers visitors a distinctive tasting experience that transports them to the heart of Tuscany.
Guests can explore the estate’s vineyards and cellar door, where they can sample a range of award-winning wines while soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
With its commitment to tradition, quality, and hospitality, Tintilla Estate invites wine lovers to indulge in a truly authentic Hunter Valley experience, just a scenic drive away from Sydney.
8. Mount Ashby Estate (Southern Highlands)
Distance from Sydney: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes’ drive
MountAshby.com.au
Mount Ashby is a boutique vineyard based in the Southern Highlands and is renowned for its handcrafted wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which reflect the region’s cool-climate elegance.
With its inviting cellar door and scenic surroundings, Mount Ashby Estate offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for wine tasting and exploration.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
9. Cupitt’s Estate (Shoalhaven Coast)
Distance from Sydney: Approximately 2 hours’ drive
CupittsEstate.com.au
Like the Southern Highlands, the Shoalhaven Coast isn’t an area you’d normally associate with wineries, but it makes for a great break from the beaches when visiting Ulladulla.
Surrounded by lush countryside and overlooking Burrill Lake, this charming family owned estate offers tastings of its handcrafted wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Visitors can also enjoy farm-to-table dining at the acclaimed restaurant or embark on a guided tour of the vineyards, making Cupitt’s Estate a delightful destination for wine lovers within easy reach of Sydney.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
10. Margan Wines (Hunter Valley)
Distance from Sydney: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes’ drive
Margan.com.au
Morgan is not just one of the best wineries near Sydney, it’s also home to one of the Hunter Valley’s best restaurants.
The food served here is as local as it gets (the majority of the menu is grown and produced on-site or very close by), meaning you’ll be served seasonal food that’s expertly paired with their award-winning vintages.
Established in 1997 by the Margan family, this esteemed estate is renowned for its commitment to organic viticulture and minimal intervention techniques, resulting in wines of unparalleled purity and expression.
From their signature Semillon to bold Shiraz blends, each varietal reflects the unique terroir of the region and the Margan family’s unwavering dedication to quality.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
