The article provides a comprehensive guide to Rutherglen, a charming town in the Rutherglen region of Victoria known for its exceptional fortified wines and rich history. It includes details on how to get there from Melbourne and Sydney and a list of things to do in Rutherglen. Overall, the article is helpful for anyone planning a delightful getaway filled with beautiful sights, delicious food, and world-class wines in Rutherglen.
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Incredible Things to Do in Rutherglen
Nestled in the stunning Rutherglen region of Victoria, this charming town is renowned for its exceptional fortified wines and rich history. Once a bustling gold rush town in the 1850s, Rutherglen has become a vibrant hub for wine lovers and foodies.
The heritage here is palpable, from the beautiful Victorian architecture lining the main street to the historic wineries that tell tales of the past. As I strolled through Rutherglen, I was pleasantly surprised by how beautiful the town is, with its lush vineyards, friendly locals, and inviting cellar doors beckoning you to explore.
Getting To Rutherglen
From Melbourne: Rutherglen is about a 3-hour drive (approximately 300 km) northeast of Melbourne. Just hop onto the Hume Highway (M31) and follow the signs to Rutherglen.
From Sydney: If you’re travelling from Sydney, it’s about a 6.5-hour drive (around 600 km) southwest. Take the Hume Highway (M31) and enjoy the scenic drive through Victoria’s picturesque countryside.
Best Things to Do in Rutherglen
1 Wine Tasting at Anderson Winery
Anderson Winery in Rutherglen is a fantastic spot for wine lovers to explore. This family-run gem has a rich history dating back to its founding. It’s earned many awards for its exceptional wines, which speaks to the dedication and passion behind every bottle.
They’re particularly famous for their robust reds, like their standout Shiraz, and their luscious fortified wines, which have garnered a loyal following.
When you stop by their inviting cellar door, you’ll find friendly staff genuinely excited to share the story behind each wine. They offer tastings that highlight the unique character of the region’s terroir. The warm and welcoming ambience makes it easy to lose track of time while enjoying a leisurely tasting.
- Address: 1619 Chiltern-Rutherglen Rd, Rutherglen VIC 3685
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm
I highly recommend the 2022 Sparkling Rutherglen cuvée, which is delightful. It’s a refreshing choice, with its crisp effervescence and elegant flavour profile.
2 Visit the Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre
The Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre is your gateway to exploring this charming region. It is ideally situated at the start of the Rutherglen to Wahgunyah section of the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail.
The centre offers convenient bike hire, including two tandem bikes for those looking to share the adventure. Just behind the centre, you’ll find a bike repair station equipped with tools and a bike pump, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your journey.
Take advantage of the extensive gift shop inside the centre, which features a delightful array of local produce and souvenirs. You can take a piece of Rutherglen home with you. Whether you’re after maps, recommendations, or just a friendly chat with the staff, the Visitor Centre is the perfect starting point for your Rutherglen experience!
- Address: 57 Main St, Rutherglen VIC 3685
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 430 pm; Sunday, 10 am to 430pm
3 All Saints Estate
This family-run winery is known for its delicious wines and warm hospitality. Enjoy a tasting and savour the local produce that complements their offerings perfectly.
When visiting All Saints Estate in Rutherglen, explore the heritage area where the original Chinese dormitories still stand. These historic dorms provide a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering insight into the lives of the Chinese immigrants who played a significant role in the region’s rich history.
1—Lunch at Bonnie at All Saints Wines is an unforgettable experience. Set within the stunning grounds of All Saints Estate, the restaurant offers a menu that beautifully showcases local produce, with dishes crafted to complement the exquisite wines perfectly.
As you dine on seasonal delights, the views of the vineyards and the historic castle-like winery create a picturesque backdrop. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff make you feel at home, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable meal.
2 –KIN is a culinary haven focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients presented with flair. This delightful eatery invites you to savour exquisite dishes perfectly matching the estate’s renowned wines.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with stunning vineyard views enhancing your dining experience. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and indulge after a day of wine tasting!
- Address: 205 All Saints Rd, Wahgunyah VIC 3687
- Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday from 12 pm to 2:30 pm
4 Main Street Rutherglen
A cairn marks where gold was discovered on Main Street in the 1860s. The town retains much of its Victorian architecture and outback country charm; be sure to explore the antique and boutique stores before stopping by a café like caffeine machine for a delightful lunch.
The cafes offer a welcoming atmosphere and delicious meals from locally sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, the restaurants like Thousand Pound and Grace provide the perfect setting to unwind and savour exquisite local wines. With its inviting ambience and friendly service, the main street of Rutherglen is the ideal place to enjoy a delightful culinary experience.
Other places to try:
- Pickled Sisters – 121B Main St Rutherglen 3685
- The Victoria Rutherglen – 90-94 Main St, Rutherglen VIC 3685
- Gelatina – 72A Main Street Rutherglen 3685
5 Blend Your Own Bottle of Muscat in Rutherglen
At Rutherglen, you can experience the unique opportunity to “Blend Your Own Bottle of Muscat” at the Stanton & Killeen Winery. This interactive experience begins with a Muscat classification tasting, where you’ll explore this beloved fortified wine’s diverse flavours and styles.
Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the winery, gaining insight into the winemaking process and the history of the estate. The highlight is the Muscat Blending Masterclass, where you can unleash your creativity by crafting your own blend from a selection of base Muscats.
It’s a fun and educational way to deepen your appreciation for this rich, aromatic wine. You’ll leave with a personalized bottle to savour or share!
6 Rutherglen Gold Battery Walk
The Rutherglen Gold Battery Walk is a fascinating journey at the back of the Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre. As you follow the Gold Battery sign, the path leads you along Hopetoun Road towards the historic Rutherglen wine bottle, a local landmark that adds charm to the trail.
This scenic walk, approximately four kilometres long, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich gold mining history. It includes a tribute to John Wallace, who named Rutherglen. The walk typically takes about an hour, but you’ll want to add extra time for the interesting stops and stunning views along the way!
- Address: start at 57 Main Street, Rutherglen, Victoria, 3685
7 Wine Bottle Shopping
Remember to stock up on your favourite Rutherglen wines! Many cellar doors offer bottles to take home so you can relive your tasting experience long after your visit.
The bottle shop on Main Street in Rutherglen is a charming and convenient spot for wine enthusiasts to explore and purchase their favourite local wines. With a wide selection of exceptional wines from the region’s renowned wineries, the bottle shop offers a delightful array of choices, catering to various preferences.
Whether you’re looking for robust reds, luscious fortified wines, or refreshing whites, this inviting establishment provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for wine lovers to browse and select the perfect bottle to enjoy during their stay in Rutherglen or to take home as a cherished memento of their visit.
- Address: 87-95 Main St, Rutherglen VIC 3685
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 730am to 7 pm; Sunday, 830am to 6 pm
8 Gooramadda Olives
Gooramadda Olives is a delightful destination for anyone who appreciates quality olive oil and gourmet products. Nestled in the picturesque Rutherglen region, this family-owned business invites you to sample a range of delicious olives and their award-winning olive oils.
During your visit, you can indulge in tastings showcasing their rich flavours and unique profiles, from fruity and robust oils to brined olives bursting with flavour. The friendly staff are passionate about sharing their knowledge, guiding you through the tasting experience and helping you discover your favourites. It’s a fantastic way to connect with local produce and take home some gourmet treasures!
- Address: 1468 Gooramadda Rd, Rutherglen VIC 3685
9 Scion Wine
Scion Wine is a standout winery in Rutherglen due to its unique winemaking approach and innovative use of traditional techniques. What sets Scion apart from other wineries in the region is its commitment to crafting wines that reflect the terroir of Rutherglen while embracing modern winemaking practices.
The winery’s dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility is evident in every aspect of its operations, from vineyard management to production. Additionally, Scion’s focus on small-batch, handcrafted wines allows them to pay meticulous attention to detail, resulting in exceptional and distinct vintages that truly capture the essence of Rutherglen’s winemaking heritage.
- Address: 74 Slaughterhouse Rd, Rutherglen Vic 3685
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm
I highly recommend The Rosé 2023, the signature rosé that is dry, delicate, and savoury. It is made from early-season, handpicked Durif and wild fermented.
10 The Mystery of Muscat Guided Tour and Tasting
Embark on a fascinating journey of discovery with the Mystery of Muscat guided tour and tasting at Stanton & Killeen Winery. This unique experience delves into Muscat classification and offers a captivating insight into the diverse range of Muscat styles produced at the winery.
As you indulge in this guided tasting, you’ll have the opportunity to savour an array of exquisite Muscat wines, each showcasing distinctive flavours and aromas.
From Muscat’s rich, luscious sweetness to the complex and alluring aged varieties, you’ll be immersed in the art of Muscat production. This tasting experience also includes exploring the winery’s extensive collection of fortified wines, providing a comprehensive understanding of these exceptional alcoholic beverages.
Historic Towns Close by
Rutherglen is surrounded by charming towns like Chiltern, Wahgunyah, and Corowa, each offering unique experiences. And yes, Rutherglen is part of the beautiful High Country, making it a perfect base for exploring the area’s stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures.
So, if you’re looking for a delightful getaway filled with beautiful sights, delicious food, and world-class wines, Rutherglen is the place to be. Don’t forget your tasting glasses—this hidden gem is waiting for you to explore!
Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!
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