Orange

The Orange wine region of New South Wales is one of Australia’s most distinctive cool-climate wine areas. Officially recognised as a GI (Geographical Indication) in 1997, it is unique because the region is defined by elevation rather than political boundaries — only vineyards planted above 600 metres around Mount Canobolas (an extinct volcano) may label their wines as “Orange.” With sites ranging from 600 to over 1,000 metres, Orange combines altitude, volcanic soils, and a cool climate to produce some of the country’s most elegant wines.

 

Key grape varieties grown

• Chardonnay

  • The region’s benchmark white.

  • Produces refined, cool-climate styles: citrus, stone fruit, minerality, and well-integrated oak.

  • Higher-elevation vineyards deliver taut, elegant wines with ageing potential.

• Sauvignon Blanc & Pinot Gris/Grigio

  • Thrive in the cool climate, often crisp, aromatic, and fruit-forward.

  • Popular both as single-varietal wines and blends.

• Riesling

  • Increasingly important, particularly at higher elevations.

  • Shows floral, lime, and mineral notes, with vibrant acidity.

• Shiraz

  • The leading red variety, producing medium-bodied, spicy, peppery styles very different from warmer NSW or Barossa Shiraz.

  • Elevation keeps alcohol levels moderate and tannins fine.

• Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot

  • Planted in lower sites (closer to 600–700m).

  • Structured, cool-climate reds with good balance.

• Pinot Noir

  • Smaller but growing plantings at higher, cooler sites.

  • Produces light, fragrant, red-fruited styles.

 

Major wineries

Orange is dominated by boutique and premium-focused wineries, many of which combine cellar doors with restaurants or luxury tourism. Key names include:

• Philip Shaw Wines

  • Founded by Philip Shaw, former head winemaker at Rosemount.

  • Known for Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and premium blends.

  • “Numbered Series” wines (e.g., No.11 Chardonnay) are region-defining.

• Ross Hill Wines

  • Family-owned and Australia’s first carbon neutral certified winery.

  • Strong reputation for Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Sauvignon Blanc.

• Printhie Wines

  • Award-winning producer, notable for its sparkling wine program (Swift Sparkling), which has received national acclaim.

  • Also makes excellent Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Shiraz.

• Borrodell Vineyard

  • High-altitude vineyard (over 1,000m).

  • Known for Pinot Noir, Riesling, and heritage apple and cherry orchards alongside its wine operation.

• De Salis Wines

  • Boutique producer located high on Mt. Canobolas.

  • Focuses on small-batch Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wines.

• Bloodwood Wines

  • One of Orange’s pioneering wineries (est. 1983).

  • Highly regarded for Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Cabernet blends.

• Swinging Bridge Wines

  • A family-run winery with a modern outlook.

  • Noted for Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and experiments with emerging varieties.