The Bellingen region in New South Wales, Australia, is not widely recognized as a significant wine region compared to others in the state. The broader New South Wales wine region encompasses a wide range of climates and terroirs, suitable for producing various grape varieties and wine styles. The climate in New South Wales is generally sub-tropical, featuring very hot summers and wet autumns. Northeasterly winds from the Pacific Ocean help mitigate the summer heat, while in the Hunter Valley, frequent cloud cover provides additional relief. Rainfall averages around 750 mm annually, mostly falling between January and April, posing challenges during the critical grape ripening and harvest periods.
New South Wales is home to several distinct wine regions, including Hilltops, Orange, Canberra District, Tumbarumba, Riverina, and others along the coast and inland areas. Each region has its unique climate, soil, and topography, allowing for the cultivation of various grape varieties and production of diverse wine styles. The Hunter Valley, located 130 km north of Sydney, is the state's most famous wine region and contributes significantly to Australia's overall wine production. Known for producing high-quality Semillon and Shiraz wines, the area benefits from a moderate climate suitable for growing these varieties. The Hilltops region produces lighter, leaner Shiraz wines, while the Canberra District specializes in Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Grüner Veltliner, among other varieties. Tumbarumba is a cool, high-altitude region that excels in producing Chardonnay for still and sparkling wines, while Riverina is the largest wine-producing area in New South Wales, known for large-scale, efficient production of grapes for bulk wines. Innovative producers in Riverina have gained a reputation for specialty wines, including botrytized Sémillon and Mediterranean varieties like Durif.