Orange is one of three wine regions that make up the Central Ranges zone. It lies on the undulating slopes of extinct Mount Canobolas volcano. Unique geology and climate lends distinct characteristics and structure to the wines of Orange. Sauvignon blanc is the regional hero, exhibiting tropical fruit with typically floral and varietal herbaceous tones. Premium, cool climate chardonnay makes wines with elegance and intensity. Red wines include widely planted shiraz, medium bodied cabernet sauvignon, merlot and pinot noir from higher sites. Rose styles are also popular. Aromatic whites include pinot gris, marsanne, gewürztraminer, verdicchio and late harvest riesling.
Orange is situated between the regions of Mudgee and Cowra, 250km from Sydney.
The undulating countryside is scattered with the cherry, apple and stone fruit groves of traditional orchard land. Commercial viticulture took off in the 1980s to reach over 1,500 ha of vine. The inland region is continental, but benefits from cool temperatures derived entirely from altitude. With elevations of 600-900 metres, Orange is amongst Australia’s highest altitude wine regions. A wide diversity in height, aspect and soil types means site selection is crucial. Frost and Winter snow are the primary viticultural hazards. Soils are rich in basalt and range through deep, well drained clays, various clay loams, volcanics and pockets of terra rossa.
