The Pyrenees Ranges are the last western reaches of Victoria’s Great Dividing Range. The region’s vineyards lie on gentle, misty blue slopes and valleys draped in eucalypt gums. The district is recognised for seductive, savoury reds based on full bodied shiraz and cabernet sauvignon. They are rich, black fruited wines with distinctive minty tones and firm, grippy tannins that soften over time. The Pyrenees region has developed a specialist sparkling style led by Blue Pyrenees Estate and Taltarni wines. Chardonnay and sauvignon blanc are the leading white varieties.
While early vineyards established in 1848 were short lived, the 1960s saw viticulture re-emerge. Over 750 ha of vine now centred around the towns of Avoca, Redbank and Moonambel. The inland region is home to a warm, temperate climate, with some variation based on altitudes of 220-375 metres. The Avoca River flows through the district and soils range through heavy sandy loams to red sandstone.
