The Bellarine Peninsula is renowned not just for its stunning beaches, charming villages and fresh seafood but also for its thriving wine industry.
As Christmas approaches, wine lovers flock to this region to discover the perfect bottles to pair with festive meals and to celebrate the season with family and friends.
Chardonnay: crisp and elegant
The Bellarine Peninsula is home to some exceptional cool-climate chardonnay. Known for its crisp acidity, minerality, and flavours of green apple, citrus, and subtle oak, Bellarine chardonnays are a perfect match for seafood platters, oysters, and turkey dishes. Wines like those from Leura Park Estate or Jack Rabbit Vineyard offer vibrant and refreshing styles that will complement your Christmas feast.
Pinot noir: light and fruit-forward
Pinot noir is another standout grape variety in the Bellarine region, where the climate helps produce elegant, fruit-forward wines with silky tannins. With notes of red berries, cherries, and earthy undertones, Pinot noir pairs beautifully with roasted meats, duck, or even Christmas ham. For a truly festive experience, try wines from Scotchmans Hill or Lethbridge Wines, which are known for their exceptional offerings.
Sparkling wines: celebrate in style
No Christmas celebration is complete without a glass of bubbly, and the Bellarine Peninsula’s sparkling wines are among the best in the country. Portarlington Ridge and Leura Park Estate produce exceptional sparkling wines, often made from traditional Champagne varieties like chardonnay and pinot noir. These wines have lively bubbles and refreshing acidity, making them ideal for toasts, appetisers, or even pairing with a range of holiday dishes. Whether you prefer a dry brut or a slightly sweeter style, the sparkling wines of the Bellarine Peninsula are a great way to ring in the Christmas season.
Shiraz: bold and rich
For those who enjoy a rich, full-bodied red wine, the Bellarine Peninsula offers some outstanding shiraz wines. These wines are known for their bold, spicy flavours, with notes of blackberries, plums and a hint of pepper. A great choice to pair with heavier Christmas fare like roast beef, lamb or barbecued meats, the shiraz wines from Lethbridge Wines and Terindah Estate are sure to make a statement on your holiday table.
Rosé: refreshing and versatile
For a wine that is both festive and versatile, look no further than Bellarine’s rosé. These wines, made from a variety of red grapes such as pinot noir, are typically light, refreshing, and slightly fruity – perfect for summer meals. A chilled glass of rosé from Jack Rabbit Vineyard or Bellarine Estate is a perfect way to start off your Christmas celebration or enjoy with lighter dishes like salads, seafood, or a charcuterie board.
