Perched between the Queensland border and the north edge of the Hunter Valley, the Northern Slopes is a hidden gem. The New England Australia region covers the eastern part of the Northern slopes, surrounded by beautiful hills and valleys. A hot, dry region, the zone is well known for its shiraz vines, alongside cabernet sauvignon, merlot, barbera and sangiovese.
New England District Wineries
New England High Country, nestled in Northern New South Wales within a day’s drive of Brisbane and Sydney and just two hours from the coast, offers a serene space where nature, experience, and story converge. This region is a haven of stunning natural landscapes, historic towns, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors are drawn to its awe-inspiring experiences, heritage architecture, diverse dining options, and a warm, welcoming community. Notably, New England has a long-standing tradition of grape growing, with vineyards established in the early nineteenth century. By the 1800s, its wines were earning international acclaim and prestigious awards.
The region’s cool-climate, high-altitude conditions – combined with warm summers, late-season rain, and brisk winters – create the perfect environment for winemaking. It is also the only place in Australia where terra rossa soils are found in high altitudes, giving its wines a distinct edge. Renowned for chardonnay, riesling and shiraz, the area is also seeing a rise in alternative varieties such as tempranillo, nebbiolo and gewurztraminer. With its exceptional indulgent wines and increasing recognition from leading wine critics around the world, New England is fast becoming a must-watch destination for wine lovers seeking both quality and innovation in every glass.
New England District Wineries