The Tenterfield region in New South Wales, specifically within the New England wine region, is home to several wineries benefiting from a continental climate characterized by bracing winters and warm summers with cool to mild nights. The high altitude of the wineries, ranging from 400 to 1000 meters, contributes to this climate, with spring frosts being a hazard in some sites. The region's climate is also influenced by the Great Dividing Range, which runs along the eastern coast of Australia, and the New England Highway, passing through Tenterfield and other towns in the region.
The New England wine region is known for producing cool climate expressions of classic Australian varieties, such as Chardonnay and Riesling, as well as alternative varieties like Gewurztraminer, Tempranillo, and Nebbiolo. Chardonnays from this region are known for their elegance, balance, and excellent varietal definition, with generous aromas of stone fruit, citrus, and tropical fruit. Rieslings from the region are fragrant, with floral characters, exotic and citrus fruit, and rich fruit flavors balanced by acidity.
The Tenterfield region's climate is suitable for growing grapes requiring cooler temperatures, such as Pinot Noir, planted in higher-altitude, cooler regions in New South Wales. The region's granite-rich soil and high elevation provide an exceptional climate for growing grapes, contributing to the quality of the wines produced in the area. Recent years have seen an increase in the popularity of alternative varieties in the New England wine region, with winemakers exploring minimal intervention winemaking and alternative varieties like Gewurztraminer, Tempranillo, and Nebbiolo, showing promise in the hands of talented winemakers. The region's history of grape growing dates back to the 19th century, with the modern industry taking root in the 1970s and gaining momentum in recent years.