Spreading over the high country from the northern fringes of Mount Macedon, east to Heathcote’s warmer climate and west to Daylesford’s wooded outskirts, the Macedon Ranges wine country is the pre-eminent cool country wine region on the Australian mainland. Its proximity to Melbourne allows for both day-tripping visits and longer stays exploring the pleasingly rural landscape delightfully dotted with charming country towns.

Author Joan Lindsay’s fabulous novel, Picnic at Hanging Rock, which was made into a sensational film by master director Peter Weir in 1975, tells the story of four women lost forever in the labyrinth of Hanging Rock’s rocky hillside. An ancient volcanic plug, it dominates the verdant plain immediately north of Mount Macedon and is well worth a detour. Embark on a walking tour to the summit, though a simple picnic at the base accompanied by one of the local wines is an easier option, time permitting.

With forty-eight wineries currently in operation, visitors are treated to a broad array of wines. Prepare for descriptions ranging from racy and austere to refined and rich. The dominant grape varieties are: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Gewurtztraminer, Riesling and Shiraz. A Macedon Ranges’ defining geological feature, one of many that make this region unique, is its rich volcanic soil, clearly evident in the colour of the basalt rock formations that are part and parcel of the scenic beauty of the locale. Another is the altitude. All Macedon Ranges wineries are sited above 500 metres, the highest at 700 metres on the northern slopes of Mount Macedon itself.

John Ellis, owner/operator of Hanging Rock Winery has been instrumental in securing international fame for the region. He established his winery in 1983, grapes were planted in 1982. 'We weren’t the first however. Tom Lazar of Virgin Hills, who began making wines at his property in the 70s encouraged Gordon Knight at Knight’s Granite Hills and a few others to follow suit. There was a bit of a slump from the early 70s till the 80s but the region has been expanding ever since.'

Ellis also serves as Chairman of the Macedon Ranges Regional Tourism Association. He claims, 'What separates the Macedon Ranges from others is all of the wineries here are family owned. There are no multi-nationals.' Adding further emphasis he explains, 'We’re all small, different and individualistic. Our wines are basically limited editions.'

In 2002 the Macedon Ranges was rewarded with formal Geographical Indication status. Its 650 hectares of wine producing land is one of Australia’s smallest G. I. recognised regions, a clear indication of its importance as it compares to larger areas of equal renown.

Though it’s best known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay based sparkling wines, made in the same method as Champagne, wineries here produce many styles, from earthy and ethereal reds to both fragrant and full-bodied whites. Popping the cork on a bottle of prime Macedon fizz is to savour a rare treat. But don’t forget to indulge in the region’s myriad other wines.

With alternative varieties such as Lagrein, Sangiovese and Tempranillo being planted the region is expanding its horizons. Ellis elaborates, 'One or two vineyards of Lagrein does not a regional specialty make however. Riesling is a superb variety here as are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Macedon Ranges’ Shiraz is interesting too, very peppery and spicy. We all continue to do the best we can in marginal conditions. It’s why Macedon Ranges’ wines are so special.'