The Rotundone Road takes you on a journey through the Australian bush to visit three boutique wineries. Drive through the canopy of eucalyptus trees, get close to the sights and sounds of the native wildlife, smell our spicy, peppery, cool climate Shiraz, taste some of the best wines in Victoria. Less than one hour from Ballarat, you choose where your Shiraz Adventure begins to visit the cellar doors of Mount Langi Ghiran, Mountainside and Dogrock wineries.
Rotundone is the compound responsible for the pepper aroma and flavour found in pepper (of course) but also a range of other herbs and fruits, including winegrapes, most notably in Shiraz. Incredibly Rotundone was only recently discovered by scientists from the Australian Wine Research Institute just over a decade ago and the wineries along the Rotundone Road were instrumental in helping identify this important compound. http://www.rotundoneroad.com.au/
The Rotundone Road winds its way through some of the most picturesque countryside Victoria has to offer. Less than one hour from Ballarat, you can start your adventure from either end of the road.
If coming off the Western Highway at Buangor, your first stop is the renowned Mt Langi Ghiran winery. Tucked under the steep slopes of the mountain it takes its name from, its home to some of Australia’s greatest cool climate Shiraz. Rotundone (Ro tun- done) is the compound responsible for the white pepper aromas and flavours found in cool climate red wines. Most notably in Shiraz, it may also be found in other varieties such as Grenache or Touriga Nacional. Rotundone was first discovered by scientists from the Australian Wine Research Institute just over a decade ago and the wineries along the Rotundone Road were instrumental in helping identify this important compound. Mt Langi Ghiran also provides an opportunity for light meals and tastings of exceptional Blanc de Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon to name a few.
Next stop is just five minutes down the Road to Mountainside Wines. This boutique winery is located under the majestic Mt Ben Nevis and is surrounded by post card scenery. Owners and winemakers Jane and Shane Goninon will welcome you with tastings of Viognier, Shiraz and Nebbiolo. Light meals are available with their speciality being Shiraz ice cream. Accommodation is also available in the Blue House with details available through the Accommodation page. Moreover, should you wish to relax from driving, a guided tour hosted by Shane will allow up to four people to taste away without the need to count.
The final part of your Rotundone Road Shiraz adventure brings you to Dogrock Winery. Due North of Mountainside Wines by 10 minutes, the view from cellar door is second to none. Perched at 320 metres above sea level with commanding views, tastings in cellar door with owners Allen & Andrea Hart take on a spectacular feel. Specialising in Iberian v
arieties such as Grenache, Tempranillo, Touriga Nacional, Graciano and Arinto the winery also has Riesling, Chardonnay and of course, Shiraz. New plantings of the variety Azal will round out a unique tasting experience with Dogrock being the first winery in Australia to plant Azal for commercial wine.
Rotundone Road Shiraz Adventure offers that unique experience that captures the very essence of the best cool climate Australian wine has to offer. Starting at either Dogrock or Mt Langi Ghiran, collect your passport while visiting the three wineries and reward yourself with two complimentary Riedel wine glasses upon purchase of a minimum volume. Details from the participating wineries. The region also offers nature and food lovers a wide choice with information available from Avoca or Ararat information centres.