Chih C.
Google
Had another truly wonderful cellar door experience at Ashton Hills Vineyard. Been going there for about 10 years, and each time is memorable but the last two years have been especially exceptional ever since we decided to relax by the fireplace, sit back on the old leather Chesterfield, and taste wines along with some charcuterie.
Much has changed in the past 10 years (for one, the winery has gained even more of a cult status for its sparkling Shiraz and Burgundian grape varieties), and I miss the good old days when you could walk in anytime and their sparkling Shiraz is readily available to taste (including back vintages); nowadays, supply is very much limited and it's best to be a wine club subscriber to access the hard-to-get wines. The highlights, in my opinion, are still their sparkling Shiraz, and rosé, but their Pinot noir and Chardonnay can be exceptionally good too, especially their Reserve and Estate wines (made in very small batches).
The cellar door manager since they re-opened after winter is extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and he makes you feel truly welcome in their cosy tasting room overlooking beautiful undulating hills planted with grape vines and fruit trees. Although recently refurbished, it has retained its rustic charm and atmosphere.
