How we Picked the Best Vineyards
In a region with so much to offer, many visitors are often unaware that the South Coast is also home to some fantastic vineyards and wineries. Each one different from the next, there is something for everyone depending on the experience you’re looking for.
To save you time, we’ve visited them all, looked at what makes them special (while enjoying a bit of wine) and listed the five best South Coast wineries. If you’re not a big wine drinker, we’ve spent the time discovering the region’s best breweries that may be more your style.
Cupitt’s Estate, Ulladulla
Best overall South Coast Winery
58 Washburton Road, Ulladulla NSW 2539, Australia (get directions)
Cupitt’s Estate is the most well established winery on the South Coast. Open seven days a week, Cuppit’s Estate is a family (and dog) friendly drinking and dining experience. The farm-to-table indoor restaurant serves lunch daily and dinner, it’s perfect for couples, showcasing some of the best produce the South Coast has to offer. Dusty’s Garden bar offers casual outdoor dining, with snacks, pizza and food to share. Visitors can sit on the deck, at the garden tables or throw out a blanket on the ample grass areas. Pets are welcome, on-leash in the garden or grass areas.
Cambewarra Estate Winery, Cambewarra
Best Winery for Lunch with the Girls
520 Illaroo Rd, Bangalee NSW 2541, Australia ( Get Directions )
Sitting on the beautiful lawn of the Cambewarra Estate, it’s easy to forget you are less than three hours from Sydney. The lush green gardens, at the foot of the Cambewarra ranges, are as picturesque as any you would have seen in your travels. Open Friday to Sunday, the restaurant features a seasonal menu that changes regularly. The bar offers a selection of cocktails, craft beer and of course, wine. The vineyard grows Chardonnay, Verdelho, Chambourcin and Cabernet Sauvignon which are all available to try by the glass or bottle. Cambewarra Estate Winery offers a High Tea Experience that is well-renowned in the Nowra Region, make sure you book ahead.
Mountain Ridge Wines, Coolangatta
Best Pet Friendly South Coast Winery
11 Coolangatta Rd, Coolangatta NSW 2535, Australia ( Get Directions )
On the rise leading to Cullunghutti Mountain sits Mountain Ridge Wines. It’s a stone’s throw from Seven Mile Beach, less than 10 kilometers from Berry and one of the first vineyards you’ll pass as you explore the South Coast. It’s pet friendly with sweeping views of the region, Mountain Ridge is perfect for those traveling with a furry friend.
Visit Mountain Ridge Wines for lunch from Wednesday to Sunday, or, enjoy breakfast on the weekends. The Explore South Coast team recommends Sunday lunch when there is live music from midday.
Crooked River Wines
Best South Coast Winery for Music and Events
11 Willowvale Rd, Gerringong NSW 2534, Australia ( Get Directions )
The closest South Coast winery to Sydney is Crooked River Wines, situated just off the highway in Gerringong. Established in 1998, this family-run business has been doing its thing for a while, with plenty of time to get-it-right.
As well as the usual cellar door and restaurant, Crooked River updates the what’s on section monthly. ‘Chill on the Hill’ invites visitors to put down a picnic rug, enjoy food and drinks, while taking a view of the vineyard. There’s regular music, a happy hour and free courtesy bus to-and-from Gerringong Saturday afternoons. Crooked River Wines also hosts ticketed events throughout the year including the Winter Wine Festival and Unwind in the Vines Festival.
Two Figs Winery, Berry
Best Winery for those Who Just Want Wine
905 Bolong Rd, Berry NSW 2535, Australia ( Get Directions )
Two Figs Winery was named after a pair of Moreton Bay fig trees that lined the original driveway of the property. Perched on one of the foothills of Coolangatta Mountain, the winery boasts breathtaking views of the Shoalhaven river.
With a focus on wine, Two Figs Winery is one of the few vineyards without a cafe or restaurant. There is, however, a cheeseboard available, which is sometimes all you really need with a nice drop. If you like what you tasted and we are sure you will, Two Figs offers a wine club that sees six of their best wines delivered to you quarterly.
It is safe to say that whether you’re there for the wine, the food, or with your four legged friend, South Coast wineries have what you’re looking for. With award-winning wines, insta-worthy scenery and a laid-back atmosphere, there’s something for every wine-lover on the South Coast.
