Climate of Australian Capital Territory

The Murrumbateman wine region, straddles the Canberra District and New South Wales, has a cool to moderate continental climate strongly influenced by its elevation, which ranges from about 600 to 800 metres above sea level. Summers are generally warm but not extreme, with significant diurnal temperature variation—hot days followed by very cool nights—that slows ripening and preserves natural acidity. Winters are cold, often with frost, and much of the annual rainfall falls in spring and early summer, which can sometimes challenge flowering and fruit set. Autumns are typically dry and mild, providing stable conditions for a long, slow ripening season that builds flavour complexity and balance. These climatic conditions particularly favour varieties such as Shiraz and Riesling, which show elegance, spice, and freshness in this region. Overall, Murrumbateman’s climate combines warmth and altitude-driven coolness, producing wines with finesse, structure, and excellent ageing potential.