Located 25 kilometres northwest of Geelong along the Midland Highway, the Bannockburn Vineyards estate is nestled in the heart of the Moorabool Valley sub-region, just outside the township of Bannockburn. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, this region has become a distinctive wine-growing area with a long history of grape cultivation and innovation. Our estate spans 26 vineyard blocks, planted with 8 grape varieties and at least 16 clones, making it a diverse and dynamic site for wine production.

The soils of Bannockburn are typically low in fertility, offering excellent drainage, which encourages controlled vine growth. The fertility of the land is naturally balanced by our commitment to organic farming principles, where we only apply compost to maintain vineyard health and productivity. The geological composition of the region is fascinating, with subtle variations in the soil arising from a continuum of volcanic debris and ancient seabeds, transitioning to richer, darker soils that lie atop predominantly limestone bedrock. These soil characteristics contribute to the unique terroir of the region, influencing the flavour profiles and structure of our wines.

The first vineyard was planted in 1974, with subsequent plantings occurring through the early 1980s, making our vines some of the oldest in the Geelong wine region. The Moorabool Valley’s climate, a blend of minimal rainfall, low-vigour soils, and prevailing winds from the Southern Ocean, provides ideal conditions for growing exceptional grapes. This unique growing environment naturally limits yields, resulting in wines with concentrated flavours and refined structures.

A key aspect of the Moorabool Valley is its relatively low average annual rainfall of approximately 500mm, which predominantly occurs in winter and spring. This is significantly less than neighbouring wine-growing regions such as the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula. The maritime influence moderates temperatures, ensuring the region enjoys mild conditions throughout the growing season. The southerly latitude of the region means that Bannockburn benefits from long hours of sunlight, a key factor in the extended growing season. The dry, stable conditions that prevail during the grape-growing season, from budburst in mid-September to the end of harvest in late April, create the perfect environment for gradual and even ripening. This extended growing season allows for an ideal balance of fruit development, ensuring the grapes reach their peak of flavour and complexity before harvest.

In recognition of the land's long history, we acknowledge and pay our respects to the traditional custodians of the region, the Wadawurrung people, who have lived on and cared for this land for thousands of years. We recognise their history, culture, and ongoing relationship with the land. Their stewardship, long before European settlers arrived, continues to inspire our approach to sustainable farming and respect for the environment.

Bannockburn Vineyards stands as a testament to the rich agricultural history of the area, as well as a place where nature, heritage, and innovation converge to produce wines of exceptional quality. The unique combination of soil, climate, and history in this region offers a glimpse into the past while looking to the future.