If you ask winemakers in Geelong, they will invariably say the Bellarine is known for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Shiraz. These varietals are done masterfully in Geelong, but there is also a lot more going on here, including funky Sav Blancs and variety-smashing Pinot Grigios. And it’s not just great wine that makes the place. There is a certain innocence and warmth to the people (which the more touristed wine regions have lost) that just makes for the best kind of day. The winemakers here are truly welcoming and genuinely excited to discuss all things wine.

The Bellarine Peninsula lies directly across Port Phillip Bay from Mornington. Mornington is currently the more famous wine region (owing in part to being 30 minutes closer to Melbourne), but 150 years ago, it was the Bellarine that produced the most wine grapes in Victoria. 150 years, later, the region is enjoying an overdue renaissance, as modern winemaking recognises the potential of the Bellarine’s rich soils. In some respects, the place almost feels like Mornington meets McLaren Vale.

There are a number of worthy wine events that occur in Geelong each year, from Toast to the Coast (a great way to explore almost all the area’s major cellar doors over a weekend), to Wine Geelong’s Winter Shiraz weekend (which we highly recommend). But no reason to wait for those. You can pop by many cellar doors there on any weekend.