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The Most Underrated Wine Regions to Explore Across Australia
Make your way down the less-trodden path and embark on a winery adventure unlike any other.
One of the things that makes Australia so special is the stark contrast between each of its regions. While Hobart is crisp and cool, Perth basks in brilliant sunshine—and Melbourne offers its classic ‘four seasons in a day’ experience. Wherever you are, a perfect glass of wine awaits, suited to the local climate.
While renowned wine regions like the Yarra Valley, Barossa Valley and Hunter Valley often steal the limelight, there are countless other hidden locales producing equally delicious wines. And now, these lesser-known areas are finally being recognised. Research by YouGov for Airbnb’s Hidden Vines campaign, in collaboration with wine expert Mike Bennie, shows that 88 percent of Aussies want to explore new wine regions.
From cool-climate gems to coastal vineyards producing crisp whites, these lesser-known regions offer world-class wines, breathtaking landscapes, and a more intimate cellar door experience—without the crowds. With 44 percent of Millennials and 42 percent of Gen Z prioritising high-quality wine, it’s clear: quality is now taking precedence over quantity.
So, if you’re looking to book an Airbnb and embark on a winecation, these underrated destinations will leave you in awe.
Underrated Winery Regions Australia: Victoria
South Gippsland
Rolling green hills, stunning coastal scenery and an elite selection of chilly-climate wines await you in the South Gippsland wine region. Here, the varied microclimates allow reds to flourish, from full-bodied Shiraz to crisp and light Pinot Noir. If you’re more of a white wine fan, don’t fret. The cool temperatures and long ripening seasons also allow Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and delightful sparkling wines with impactful fruit flavours to thrive.
Gippsland Wine Company, Carrajung Estate and Brandy Creek Estate are just three of our favourites amongst this large and vast region, all offering exceptional wines, warm hospitality, and breathtaking vineyard views. This region is also home to Gurney’s Cidery, a beloved brewery crafting refreshing dry ciders.
Stay: Jacky Winter Waters: Meditative Beachfront Retreat
South Gippsland isn’t just home to world-class wineries; it also beckons coastal travellers with some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches. The Jacky Winter Waters: Meditative Beachfront Retreat is located in a pristine pocket of the region, overlooking Waratah Bay and Wilson’s Promontory. Engulfed by towering limestone cliffs, this beachside retreat is a romantic spot to base yourself on a love-fuelled winery adventure. Indulge in ocean views from the floor-to-ceiling window in the bedroom, start off your morning overlooking the coast on the deck with a cup of coffee in hand, and unwind in the evening with a glass of local Pinot Noir as the sun sets over the bay.
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Walkerville North
Pyrenees
The Pyrenees region is one of Victoria’s best kept secrets when it comes to cool-climate wines. Located in Victoria’s west—between Daylesford and the Grampians—a visit to this underrated gem will reward you with rich, full-bodied reds, stunning landscapes, and a welcoming community of passionate winemakers.
Start off at the foothills of the Pyrenees region at Mount Avoca, where you’ll try award-winning Shiraz and Merlot varieties. Just a short drive away is Bigibila Wines’ cellar door in the tiny town of Moonambel, where you’ll sample rich reds including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. For the perfect finish to your winecation, be sure to check out Amherst Winery, a stunning family-owned and operated winery, to sip as you watch the sun sink over the horizon.
Stay: Rose+Vine
Your winecation to the stunning Pyrenees country isn’t authentic without staying in an adorable rustic cottage. The 1930s cottage Rose+Vine oozes rustic charm, combining rich earthy tones with traditional checkerboard tiles and other playful patterns. The blend of sage green, warm wood, and black blurs the line between contemporary and classic, creating a cosy yet stylish retreat that feels both timeless and inviting. Sink into the luxurious outdoor bath, pour yourself a glass from a bottle you’ve purchased on your winery expeditions, and take in the magical surrounding views.
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Avoca
Underrated Winery Regions Australia: Western Australia
Great Southern Region
While the Great Southern Region is almost five hours southeast of Perth, it’s well worth the road trip. Behold dramatic coastlines, unspoilt views, adorable small towns, and Australia’s most expansive wine-producing region by land area. There are five subregions within this massive area—Frankland River, Mount Barker, Porongurup, Denmark, and Albany—all with something unique to offer and all promising balanced, expressive wines you’ll want to savour.
Howard Park Wines is one of the region’s pioneers, best known for its premium Chardonnay. If you love indulging in organic wine, Frankland Estate is the place for you, where its expressive Rieslings and Cabernet blends shine.
Due South
You’re not likely to find another stay like Due South. Tucked away on the stunning two-acre property, Ark of Denmark, this bush cabin features floor-to-ceiling glass windows that immerse you in the surrounding bushland and granite boulders. A stay here is a unique romantic experience, with tri-level open-plan living that establishes the cosy vibes.
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Denmark
Southern Forests
The Southern Forests encompasses two small, boutique wine regions in southwest WA: Manjimup and Pemberton. Manjimup is a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Perth, with Pemberton just 30 kilometres further away—both offering a truly unique experience for you to enjoy. These are owner-maker wineries, meaning the person greeting you at the cellar door is likely the same one responsible for crafting the very wine you’re about to taste.
The loamy soil, abundance of rainfall, and crisp climate provide optimal ripening conditions for vibrant wines. Spend your days exploring the boutique treasures, including Truffle Hill Wines and Pemberley of Pemberton.
Stay: The Soak at Dalton’s Paddock
This tiny home in the heart of Manjimup is enchanting. The stark contrasts between modern and traditional are sharp, and that’s what makes The Soak at Dalton’s Paddock one of a kind. Vintage-inspired decor and furniture fill the tiny cabin, while a contemporary gold fire pit and beautiful bronze bathtub sit outside. Warm, wooden interiors blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape, creating a beautiful escape.
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Manjimup
Underrated Winery Regions Australia: Queensland
Granite Belt
This Queensland wine region is Australia’s highest and could be considered the most overlooked. Located three hours from Brisbane, on the southwest border of New South Wales and Queensland, it provides a safe haven for Queenslanders sweltering in the summer heat. Rejuvenate and refresh with a glass of wine from over 50 wineries within the region—you’re truly spoilt for choice!
Step into a unique cellar door within a castle at Castle Glen, a winery and brewery offering preservative-free, chemical-free, and all-natural wine, liqueurs, beer, and spirits. Balancing Heart Vineyard is another Granite Belt winery that’s a must-visit, pouring small-batch varietals where you can taste the love and passion that goes into each bottle.
Alum Rock Hideaway
Secluded enough to escape into your own little world, but not so far that you can’t enjoy all the Granite Belt has to offer, Alum Rock Hideaway is ideal for a solo vacation or a couple’s retreat. Enjoy the sunset and the stars from the comfort of the deep, luxury outdoor bathtub while indulging in generous pours of locally crafted Shiraz or varietals of your choice from your day’s winery expeditions. The panoramic views of the rolling hills and bushland are reason enough to book this Airbnb.
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Granite Belt
Underrated Wine Regions: New South Wales
Southern Highlands
Just over an hour out of Sydney, this cool-climate wine region delivers a great weekend escape from the city. Primarily known for pinot noir and sparkling varietals, there are over 60 vineyards and 15 cellar doors to explore in the region!
Head to Bendooley Estate in Berrima for one of the most scenic vineyards (and a mosey through their iconic bookbarn!) and Centennial Vineyards for top-tier pinot noir, chardonnay and an incredible live music schedule.
Stay: Boscobel Cottage
Picture this: you, your closest girlfriends, and lush accommodation sitting neatly on 120 acres of farmland. Boscobel Cottage‘s allure is due not only to its beautiful location and and timeless charm, but also the stunning Scandinavian furniture that adorns its interiors. Wander down to the paddocks to say hello to the grazing horses and debrief the exciting events of your days in the outdoor spa.
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Sutton Forest
Canberra District
A jaunt around the Canberra wine region is never a bad idea. Options are plentiful with over 40 cellar doors beckoning with delicious temperate drops. For education on Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon head to Helm. If you fancy sipping in the sun on a luxe terrace, Shaw Wines will not disappoint. Or perhaps you’re a lover of Shiraz Viognier? Clonakilla’s is award-winning, and one sip will show you why.
Stay: The Barlow Tiny House
The Barlow Tiny House is a place to reconnect with nature and unwind in a truly magical setting. Nestled on a working cattle and horse farm in the Yass Valley of the Canberra District, this charming retreat offers a front-row seat to rolling green pastures and breathtaking sunsets. Thoughtfully designed with sustainability in mind, The Barlow Tiny House features rustic timber interiors, large picture windows, and a cosy loft bed that lets you wake up to serene countryside views.
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Blakney Creek
Underrated Wine Regions: South Australia
Coonawarra
Coonawarra is a charming country town on the South Australian/Victorian border. Known for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra has quietly been hosting informed wine lovers in its vineyards for decades. Discovered by pioneer John Riddoch for its winemaking potential in the late 1800s, this enchanting region offers a serene escape with stunning landscapes, fresh local cuisine, and world-class new and vintage wines. With more than 25 cellar doors, visitors are invited to explore the rich heritage and innovative spirit of these esteemed wine producers.
Sip award-winning drops at Balnaves of Coonawarra and Hollick Estate, embrace the warm hospitality of the friendly locals at Brand’s Laira and soak up the Italian influence at family-owned Di Giorgio Family Wines.
Stay: The Brolga
The Brolga is a lavish on-farm retreat, perfect for lovebirds to draw up their nest for their winecation. Offering contemporary amenities combined with breathtaking views of the surrounding farmland and countryside, you will be able to bask in the beauty of nature from the comfort of your accommodation.
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Penola
Riverland
The Riverland region embodies the spirit of nature running free in South Australia’s east, where the Murray River weaves its way through the landscape. A continental climate of long, sunny days and cool nights lends itself to Shiraz, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon in one of Australia’s largest-producing wine grape regions.
The Riverland Wine Centre is a hub dedicated to showcasing 35 of the best wineries from the Riverland region. Here, you can explore and taste local wines, learn about the region’s winemaking heritage, sample produce and purchase your favourite bottles directly from producers.
Combining great wine and sustainability, Banrock Station Wines is home to thriving vineyards and wildlife-filled wetlands, producing a core range of vegan-friendly wines, along with pink Moscato and rosé. For a visit doused in history and excellent food, be sure to add Mallee Estate to your itinerary.
Stay: Hollows Hut
It’s not often that you get to bathe with a view as beautiful as the one that Hollows Hut offers its guests. This couples retreat is a peaceful sanctuary for those who want to explore the Riverland region and enjoy quality nights together in equal measure. Whether you prefer sunrise or sunset, the panoramic vistas of Bremar Valley never fail to captivate the eye of the beholder.
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Mount Torrens
Underrated Wine Regions: Tasmania
Pipers River
Pipers River is where Tasmania’s wine scene keeps it low-key—but seriously impressive. Tucked into the island’s cool-climate heart, it’s a place for those who appreciate wines with depth, soul, and a little mystery. The sparkling wines here are some of the best in the country—crisp, textured, and effortlessly elegant.
Sip refined bubbles at Jansz, find boutique charm at Winter Brook, admire the precision of Delamere, and experience the bold, expressive wines of Sinapius. Each glass tells a story of cool mornings, patient hands, and a deep respect for the land.
Pipers River isn’t flashy, but that’s the beauty of it. The best discoveries never need to shout, instead opting for a cool air of mystery.
Stay: Tamo
If you’re booking a winecation, it might as well be a stylish one. Unwind surrounded by terracotta tiles in an inviting bathtub, boasting north-facing coastal views. This no-fuss, family-friendly retreat is located 45 minutes from Launceston, with beachfront access to enjoy at your leisure. There’s no better place to reset than this lush haven.
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Lulworth
East Coast
Tasmania’s East Coast is a wine region that still operates under the radar, though its talents are undeniable. This 300km stretch, from St Helens to Port Arthur, is more than just postcard-perfect beaches and rugged cliffs—it’s a treasure trove of coastal-influenced wines. Think crisp, balanced Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Chardonnay, each bottle a reflection of the land’s unique personality. Visiting feels like stumbling into a secret; cellar doors that feel personal, winemakers who pour their hearts into each sip, and a region that oozes authenticity with every taste.
For a true taste of the coast, you’ll want to make your way to Devil’s Corner. Yes, this winery is already iconic, but a visit to its cellar door takes things up a notch with fresh seafood and endless views. A bucket-list winery if there ever was one. Dive deeper into this stellar wine region and discover Freycinet Vineyard, known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and a Sauvignon Blanc that ranks among the finest we’ve ever tasted. Ossa Vineyard also shines, crafting outstanding Grüner Veltliner and Pinot Noir.
Stay: The Burrows
This restored 1860s cottage will leave you feeling worlds away from your everyday worries—and positively in awe. The rugged landscape of the east coast, accompanied with the unparalleled views of Freycinet Peninsula may lead you to believing your eyes are deceiving you, but that isn’t the case; you’ve entered an underrated paradise. Sitting on two and a half acres of farmland, you’re guaranteed privacy and serenity, making it the perfect retreat for those seeking a peaceful escape.
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Swansea
If you loved our edit of Australia’s most underrated wine regions and the dreamy Airbnb stays paired with them, you’ll also enjoy discovering more unique stays around the country. From the best family-friendly retreats to luxury accommodation among the treetops, Australia has something for every type of traveller.
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