This is one of the more notable wineries in Heathcote, because you can buy a meal here as well…read more That's a welcome rarity in this wine region, however its popularity - also attributable to its position on Heathcote's central strip - means what you'll experience here is far more mainstream and slick than a lot of the smaller, boutique wineries out of town. Don't expect to talk to any winemakers here. The selection of wines was average, tasting pours were tiny but in line with larger wineries, and the staff seemed knowledgable even if reading from a mental script. Their premium 'slaughterhouse' Shiraz was wonderful. We stopped off for a meal here as well, and picked up a lamb, and a chicken dish. Both were tasty, although the the rice with the chicken was undercooked and clustered into lumps. The dining room is located in a lovely space with exposed brickwork hosting local artwork you can buy off the wall, all in front of an open fire. I'd recommend this place for a meal, and not just because it's one of the very few places in the region in which you can sit down to eat. It's a great eatery in its own right. If you're sorted for food, pass this by when it comes to wine - there are lots of smaller, more welcoming wineries in the area.

Brilliant wines and excellent, knowledgeable staff members! Try the Mail Coach Shiraz!read more

Great cellar door, give it a go! We had a lovely tasting with Tony, the owner, and bought two…read morereally nice bottles. This winery has won quite a few awards and shouldn't be missed.

Excellent example of robust and tasty Heathcote reds, situated on a lovely estate, Sanguine should…read morebe a must-stop for cellar-door weekend hoppers. The owner greeted us warmly, and took us through his family history and their relationship with wine as we tasted quite a few of their great quality wines. We will be back.

Home to the nicest wine I tasted on our wine tour (their 2008 Reserve Shiraz), Downing Estate's…read morecellar door is actually a literal cellar underneath the winemaker's home! It's custom built and feels a little cold and impersonal, as if you're loitering in someone's garage. It's difficult to imagine how this space could adequately cater to large groups. It was straight down to business on arrival, despite being only the second visitors of the day. Not a great deal was said about the wines, and information was - on the whole - only offered up upon asking. Instead, we were left to read laminated information sheets, which didn't lend to a personable feel. I guess not all winemakers are schmoozers. The wines themselves are mixed. I tasted my first sparkling Shiraz (let's just say that's not on my shopping list) and an unusually tasty Merlot - don't pass that up. The jewel here though is that 2008. It's sensational and I regret I could only afford one bottle. Pop in if you have time.

Yes, the wine is fantastic, but dog fans take note that the super-friendly border-collie Max will…read moretry (and succeed!) to pull your attention away from your tasting. Be prepared to taste in one hand and throw him a ball with the other and all will be well!