This is a stunning wine region of clear mountain streams and breathtaking alpine wilderness. The snowy peaks of the Buffalo, Beauty, Feathertop and Bogong mountains form a striking backdrop. Alpine Valley is a high-altitude region of boutique, cool-climate wines.
The show has stimulating intensity, brisk acidity and rain-soaked minerality. The premier wine styles include aromatic sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and minty Alpine merlot. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are also used to produce sparkling types. Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon are found on warmer sites at lower heights. Small plantings of Spanish and Italian varietals include Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese, Bebbiolo, Barbera, Tempranillo and Marzemino.
The Alpine Valley region lies on the doorstep of northeastern Victoria’s famous snow and ski fields. It is actually comprised of four smaller valleys carved out by the Ovens, Kiewa, Buckland and Buffalo rivers. The main townships include Myrtleford, Bright and Porepunkah. First planted to vine in the 1850s, viticulture was mainly revived in the 1970s. There is now over 850 ha under vine, lying at 150-600 metres in elevation.
The region has a continental climate offset by the high altitude. Cold nights and chilly alpine breezes combine to give a further cooling effect. Good rainfall and snow melt mean precious water is in abundant supply. A variety of soils include fertile alluvials, sandy loams and red-brown duplexes formed from granite. The Alpine Valley is also home to Bright brewery and Boynton’s Brewing Co. The premium microbreweries use the region’s crystal water and pristine mountain environment.
