Pyrenees Wine Region

The Pyrenees wine area, located in Western Victoria near Avoca, is only two hours drive from Melbourne. The dominant wine region is known for its superb wines and is centered on prolific mountain ranges. The landscape is breathtaking, with a stunning craggy mountain range and a distinct microclimate. Several boutique wineries producing award-winning wines can be found in the Pyrenees wine area. The Pyrenees region is blessed with natural beauties, including wild and spectacular scenery, as well as outstanding gastronomy and wines. In wine-tasting sessions, there is always a potential that you will meet the producers. Discover the wine area of the Pyrenees for yourself.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in the Pyrenees!

Where is the Pyrenees wine region?

This lovely wine-producing region is located in western Victoria, on Australia's southern coast. The Pyrenees region is only 158 kilometers northwest of Melbourne and takes about two hours to reach. The area is close to the town of Avoca. With altitudes ranging from 300 to over 750 meters above sea level, the Pyrenees mountain ranges cover the southern end of the Great Dividing Range. Mount Avoca, at 747 meters, is the highest point in the range. The region is delimited on the southwest by the town of Avoca, on the north by St Arnaud, on the west by Stawell, and on the southwest by Ararat.

History of the Pyrenees wine region

The Pyrenees region shares its name with the French wine region between France and Spain because early French settlers perceived a likeness in the craggy mountain range with the French Midi-Pyrenees. The first vines were planted in 1858, but the region was re-established in 1960 when Remy Martin, a French brandy maker, opened a modest winery near Avoca. Until the end of the twentieth century, the region was known for producing high-quality wines. In June 2000, the Pyrenees wine area was granted Geographic designation. The region is home to notable wineries, the majority of which are family-run.

The terroir and geography of the Pyrenees wine region

With its various microclimates and brown loamy sands, the Pyrenees wine area is suitable for vines creating earthy flavors in wines. During the spring and early summer, there is a significant temperature variation between morning and night, allowing grapes to develop uniformly. The region receives plenty of sunlight and rainfall throughout the year, with minimal rain during the growing season necessitating significant irrigation. The soil consists primarily of grey-brown loamy sands. To make the soil lighter, winegrowers typically add gypsum and lime. The vines planted range in elevation from 117 to over 450 meters above sea level.

Popular grape varieties from the Pyrenees wine region

The major grape varieties of the Pyrenees wine region are Cabernet Sauvignon for red and Sauvignon Blanc for white. Other grape varieties grown in the region are Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot, Nebbiolo, Viognier, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Riesling.  The red wines specially made from Cabernet Sauvignon have sumptuously rich mid-palate, with flavors ranging from mint to black fruits, as well as earthy qualities that develop during age.

Food to pair with Pyrenees wine 

Carpetbag Steak

Carpetbag Steak is one of the noble dishes which gained popularity in Australia and Newzealand during the mid-20th century. The dish had been a working-class dish in a historic fishing village in South Wales, United Kingdom. The dish usually comprises boneless beef steak and raw fresh Oysters. Oysters are encased in a pocketed thick cut of rib-eye steak. The stuffed steak is then sealed with skewers which are seared in a pan or grilled depending on preference. It is usually served with steak placed upright along the sauce. A strip of bacon and hash potatoes also come along with the Carpetbag Steak. The dish goes well with red wines from the Pyrenees wine region. 

Chicken Parma

This savory meal, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmy, is one of Australia's most popular foods. Breadcrumbs coat the boneless chicken, which is then cooked in heated oil until golden brown. After that, the fried chicken is topped with cheese and tomato sauce before being thoroughly baked. Despite its name's resemblance to Italian culture, the dish originated in America. This dish is available at every pub in Australia, along with salads and fries. If you are in pub around Australia enjoying wines from the Pyrenees, now you know what to order. 

Roasted Lamb

Lamb is a versatile meat that may be enjoyed as a special treat throughout the year. Many flavors accompany lamb, so experiment with various herbs, spices, and condiments to enhance the flavor of your choice.

Pyrenees wines complement roasted lamb dishes such as rack of lamb, leg of lamb, or lamb cutlets.

Spaghetti Jaffle

A spaghetti jaffle is a type of sandwich that can be found in both Australia and Japan. It usually includes spaghetti, bread, butter, cheese, and a sauce (often tomatoes and onions). You can either cook the spaghetti al dente or just use your leftover ones. The spaghetti is cooked with the sauce and the bread is buttered and has a slice of the spaghetti on top. The pieces of bread are then joined to make a sandwich, which usually just needs to be heated until it's golden brown. It can also be grilled until crispy if preferred. Pairs well with Pyrenees wine.

Chiko Roll

Chiko Rolls are the Australian version of the popular Chinese spring roll or egg roll. This tasty snack consists of a thin wrapper, made from flour and eggs. It is filled with vegetables, vegetables, and spices for an authentic taste! Chiko rolls are usually deep-fried in oil, but they can also be boiled or steamed. Chiko rolls are sold in most fish and chip shops, and their history stretches back over 60 years. They were invented by Frank McEnroe and given their name "chicken roll" as they originally didn't contain any actual chicken! It is very tasty and pairs well with wines from the Pyrenees.

Salt and Pepper Calamari

Salt and Pepper Calamari – A popular dish in China, this one is inspired by Australia instead. The calamari or squid has a crisp salt-and-pepper breading deep fried until it’s golden brown. The dish is often prepared and served as a bar or pub snack. It's often garnished with garlic, fried chili, and spring onions. It pairs well with Pyrenees wines.

Places to visit in the Pyrenees wine region

Mount Buangor State Park

Just 60 km west of Ballarat, the Mount Buangor State part is spread across 2400 hectares with diverse landscapes including eucalypt forests, creek flats, waterfalls, peaks, and a lot of walking trails. The park is also a part of the cultural landscape of the Eastern Maar. Mount Buangor is the highest point in the park that offers spectacular views of the surroundings. The park is well connected with 15 kilometers of walking trail and various spots for camping. If you are a nature lover, don't forget to visit this amazing park. 

Pyrenees State Forest

The Pyrenees State Forest is home to a variety of wildlife sightings, lush woods, jagged mountain ranges, vivid wildflowers, and historic sites. This lovely neighborhood is the ideal balance of culture and nature. The principal attractions of the forest include the Waterfall's Picnic Area, Pyrenees Endurance Walk, Ebling Track Walk, Sugarloaf Walk, and Governor Lookout. The forest, which is up to 800 meters high, is home to a variety of vegetation and fauna. The woodland is home to around 100 bird species and 200 plant species.

Avoca Chinese Garden

Avoca's Garden of Fire and Water is a great discovery in the Pyrenees. Reflecting the Chinese heritage within the region, Avoca’s Garden of Fire and Water represents and acknowledges the early contributions of Chinese immigrants to Avoca during its gold rush era in 1850-1870. From the entrance garden, you can see a scholar rock in the distance glistening with a water droplet. Scholar rock is a nice and natural formation of rocks and it is particularly significant to people who have an interest in Chinese history. Avoca provides guided tours of the Garden of Fire and Water, which gives an insightful perspective into the strong connection between Chinese settlers and the Pyrenees. Avoca’s Garden of Fire and Water provides a beautiful venue for weddings, special occasions, and events; and it is a picturesque stop for a day in the Pyrenees.

Gallery 127

Gallery 127 is the go-to place for art lovers in the region. Located in a heritage railway station building, it features monthly solo exhibitions by internationally recognized and respected artists. Local history displays, workshops, artist studio spaces, and a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm - where commuters can buy vegetables, fruits, and herbs and then pick them up on the platform - are all present at the station.

Frequently asked questions about the Pyrenees