The Central Grampians wine region in Victoria, Australia, has a rich history dating back to the 1860s with the first grapes planted after the gold mining boom. Situated between the townships of Stawell and Ararat, approximately 218 kilometers west of Melbourne, it is close to the scenic Grampians National Park. Best's and Seppelt Great Western are the two prominent wineries in the region, both established in the 1860s by the Best brothers.
Featuring diverse soils from hard setting silt over clay to friable clay loams, the region excels in water retention despite its low rainfall. The Central Grampians experiences a cool/temperate continental climate, characterized by warm to hot days and cool to cold nights, which creates optimal conditions for late-ripening red varieties like Shiraz. Shiraz is the flagship variety of the region, known for producing silky smooth wines with red cherry, plum, spice, and pepper notes. Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon are also notable varieties contributing to the region's richness and diversity.
The Central Grampians region is renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines, owing to successful traditional methods and sparkling Shiraz production. The terroir of the region is influenced by its location at the foothills of the Grampians and Great Dividing Range, creating a unique amphitheatre effect with cold nights and warm afternoons. The climate is moderated by the Grampians, leading to mild autumn weather ideal for grape ripening.