We may receive a commission if you make purchases through affiliate links (at no extra cost to you). Read why our approach to travel is different.
Just over a three-hour scenic drive from Sydney, the town of Mudgee is just far enough away to make it Australia’s finest under the radar wine destination. Mudgee is a classic country town defined by wide maple-lined avenues (beautiful in autumn) and charming colonial architecture. Picture broad storefronts with tin-roof verandas, wrought-iron balconies (do stop to admire the Woolpack Hotel) and elegant, neoclassical brick facades.
The historic town center is full of cute cafes (Alby & Esthers has a charming courtyard and great coffee), restaurants, boutiques and galleries. It’s all perfectly designed to fill lazy afternoons and drain bank accounts.
The Mudgee Arts Precinct is worth a visit and features rotating exhibitions including stunning displays of indigenous art.
Down to business, Mudgee is an oenophile’s delight and the world class wines are what bring most visitors to the region. Boasting over 60 wineries, many of which are small, family-run affairs, you’ll find that the cellar doors are casual and laid back. Wine tasting in Mudgee is enjoyable and accessible for everyone from experts to novices.
It’s a tough job (and a lot of wine) but here’s my pick of the four best wineries in Mudgee for 2025.
1. Lowe Family Wines
I’m not breaking new ground here as Lowe is a widely admired favorite in the region, but let me join the chorus of evangelists and tell you why. This cellar door is such a stellar all-rounder – the wines are exquisite, it’s one of the most picturesque vineyards in the region and the service is outstanding (if a bit less personal). The wines are certified organic and bio-dynamic.
The Shiraz and Zinfandel are the estate grown knockouts and worth the splurge to take a bottle (or two) home.
My only (minor) gripe is that Lowe has a more corporate vibe compared to some of the smaller cellar doors. Bookings are strongly recommended and a standard tasting is currently AU$20 per person (or upgrade to try their premium range). This is a leisurely sit down tasting with table service.
Ideally the weather is fine and you’re enjoying the idyllic views (and in spring the riotous bunches of wisteria). Order a few items off the grazing menu – breads, cheese, charcuterie, olives – did I mention the breads? It’s a great spot for a casual lunch and a nice break for your designated driver.
But the real reason I love Lowe is that it’s super family friendly without turning the place into a playground. Kids are welcome and there’s even a kids menu (although we couldn’t keep ours out of the charcuterie). There’s spacious outdoor seating or you’re welcome to picnic on the grounds (no outside food) so there’s lots of room for little legs to stretch and run.
Better yet, you’re welcome to wander the farm and say hello to the animals and explore the gardens – there’s even a handy map!
2. Burnbrae
Quintessential Mudgee – this small, family run winery produces outstanding wines. As this is Mudgee, I’ll shout out the Shiraz (my personal favorite). If sweet wines are your thing, people rave about the Moscato. What really sets Burnbrae apart is the personalized service and attention. The owners (Andy and Trine) are usually around and always up for a chat.
The setting is comparatively rustic (in a good way) and the atmosphere is so laid back, you feel like you’ve dropped in on old friends – it’s easy to spend a lot of time here. In my view, the staff and service are 11/10.
Tastings are just AUD $5, so it’s a big bang for your buck and a bit off the beaten track – you’re unlikely to encounter a rowdy hen-do. Friday to Sunday they fire up the pizza oven for a lazy afternoon of beer, wine and pizza – occasionally accompanied by live music. Weekends are the best time to bring the kids!
3. Bunnamagoo
A large, utterly unpretentious cellar door where tastings are complimentary. If you’re new to wine or feeling a bit intimidated, Bunnamagoo is a fabulous introduction to Mudgee wines. And hear me loud and clear – the wines are excellent. Their traditional Blanc de Blanc is my surprise top pick and they produce some excellent value reds that are great to cellar for a few years. (I’ve got a couple 2016 Cabernet’s that I’m itching to crack out this Christmas).
If the weather is fine, sit on the outdoor patio for your tasting and enjoy the views over the spacious lawns that lead down to a small pond. Conveniently, this is also a great place for little ones to blow off some steam. The staff here couldn’t be friendlier and were happy to indulge our two year old with a shatter-proof wine glass and a pitcher of water so she could practice her ‘cheers’.
A tour bus in the car park is often a red flag for me – but don’t panic. Bunnamagoo do all their group tastings separately, thus maintaining the chill vibes and laid back ambiance.
4. Robert Stein
The most famous winery in Mudgee? Probably – and for good reason. These wines are in a league of their own – putting Robert Stein on virtually every best wineries in Mudgee list. Tasting here is a bit less leisurely and ambient than other sites (I get it, it’s super popular). Bookings are essential and AUD $10 per person. The Riesling is outstanding – among the finest produced in Australia, alongside wonderful Chardonnay and Mudgee’s perennial reds – Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.
The best (and most expensive) way to experience this winery is to bypass the hubbub of the tasting room. Rather, enjoy the six (or four) course degustation menu at the rustic onsite restaurant, Pipeclay Pumphouse. Open for lunch (best to enjoy the views) and dinner, you can choose a Robert Stein or regional wine to accompany your meal. It’s a lightly Mediterranean-inspired menu and casual fine dining at its best.
Somewhat incongruous, there’s a free onsite vintage motorcycle museum – so enthusiasts will want to check it out.
Eat and sleep
Mudgee town has no shortage of great eateries from pub grub to small plates – just follow the locals. But a few unique options worthy of mention – if you’re ravenous after a full day of wine tasting, check out Smokin Bro & Co for hearty American-style burgers and barbecue. If you ask me, anything with the brisket is the obvious choice! And color me surprised, but 29 Nine 99 in nearby Rylstone has really excellent Yum Cha. The place is tiny and very popular – so bookings are all but essential.
You’ll be looking for someplace comfortable to lay your head after a full day of wine tasting and there is no place cozier than Sierra Escape. This is peak luxury glamping (no kids allowed) complete with deep outdoor soaking tubs and fireplaces – indoor and outdoor.
In town, Cobb & Co is a charming boutique heritage hotel in walking distance to everything you need. Out of town, you’ll find Birches which offers comfortable self-contained accommodation. The spacious grounds and outdoor pool make this a great option for families.
Share This Article
Traveling soon? Subscribe to The Insight below and get exclusive access to our personalized travel advice community via WhatsApp so you can ask all your burning travel questions.
Looking for the best comprehensive travel insurance? SafetyWing has you covered.
And for your eSIM in every country, there is only one option we recommend: Airalo.
Read more of our best insights from around the world
- 4 Best Day Trips from Auckland: North Island Quick Escapes
- The 4 Best Wineries in Mudgee, New South Wales for 2025
- 11 Traditional Foods in Hanoi You Have to Try
- The Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Bangkok, Thailand for 2025
- 5 Swiss Desserts to Find in Basel Over the Holidays
- Dramatic Landscapes and Rugged Coastlines: 10 Things to Do on the Isle of Lewis
