Home » Australia Travel News » Rutherglen, Australia: Discover the Hidden Gem of North-East Victoria, Known for Exceptional Wines, Rich Heritage, and Warm Hospitality
Published on
December 6, 2025
Rutherglen, located in north-east Victoria, is one of Australia’s most underrated wine regions. While the region has long been known for its full-bodied reds and fortified wines, it has recently received recognition for producing an outstanding Pinot Grigio. De Bortoli Wines’ 2024 One Line Pinot Grigio won Best Pinot Gris/Grigio of Show at the National Wine Show, cementing Rutherglen’s reputation as an unexpected force in the Australian wine industry.
This recognition is significant, especially given that Rutherglen is more commonly associated with muscat, a traditional fortified wine that, while popular among connoisseurs, has never been particularly fashionable. The region’s success with more mainstream wines, such as Pinot Grigio, demonstrates its versatility and the innovative approach of its winemakers. Rutherglen, located 294 kilometres from Melbourne and near the New South Wales border, is more than just heritage wines; it is also a region that is changing with the times, blending history with modern flair.
A Rich History of Wine-Making
Rutherglen’s wine history stretches back generations, with many wineries being family-run businesses passed down through multiple generations. These wineries still hold on to the traditional practices that have long been associated with the region, where cold winters and hot summers produce intensely flavoured wines. The passion for winemaking runs deep, and Rutherglen’s winemakers are dedicated to creating wines that reflect the area’s unique climate and terroir.
As one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, Rutherglen has managed to maintain its heritage while embracing innovation. The families behind the vineyards and wineries are often the same ones who grow, harvest, and make the wine, ensuring that the craftsmanship is kept in the family. Their close connection with the land makes Rutherglen’s wines distinctive, with an authenticity that visitors immediately notice.
Kate Halpin, co-owner of the historic Victoria Hotel in Rutherglen, sums up the experience well. She explains that Rutherglen is home to six generations of wine families, a testament to the region’s deep-rooted connection to wine. This level of vertical integration, where the growers, winemakers, and hosts are one and the same, is relatively unique to Rutherglen. The result is a warm, down-to-earth hospitality that is unmistakable.
The Victoria Hotel: A Historic Icon Reimagined
In the heart of Rutherglen’s main street lies the Victoria Hotel, a 150-year-old establishment that has been lovingly restored by Kate and Matt Halpin. With their multi-million-dollar investment and four years of hard work, the Halpins have transformed the hotel into a luxurious yet welcoming space that captures the essence of Rutherglen’s charm.
The Victoria Hotel now boasts 14 beautifully appointed suites, including two dog-friendly rooms and a fully accessible suite. The Halpins carefully preserved the hotel’s heritage architecture, ensuring that its historical character was maintained. The interior design was personally handled by Kate Halpin, blending modern sophistication with the rustic charm of a country pub.
In addition to offering fine accommodation, the Victoria Hotel is also home to a restaurant led by Brendan Anderson, named the Australian Hotels Association Victoria’s 2025 Chef of the Year. The restaurant menu showcases locally sourced ingredients and, of course, an impressive selection of wines from across Northeast Victoria. For visitors seeking an elevated country pub experience, the Victoria Hotel offers just that – a touch of luxury while retaining the village atmosphere that makes Rutherglen special.
The Wine Experience: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Visitors to Rutherglen come for the wine, and it’s no surprise why. The region’s wineries are known for their award-winning muscat, but they’re also gaining recognition for other wines, like the 2024 One Line Pinot Grigio from De Bortoli Wines. As the region continues to push the boundaries of winemaking, there is an increasing diversity in the wines on offer.
Rutherglen’s wine-makers are experts in crafting wines that tell a story of the land, the seasons, and the people who produce them. The wineries in the area are particularly appealing because they are often family-run, and the owners are more than happy to share their knowledge and expertise with visitors. This sense of personal connection is what makes a visit to Rutherglen so unique.
In addition to the wines themselves, the cellar doors in Rutherglen provide a warm and inviting atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy tastings in a relaxed, personal setting, often accompanied by stories of the land and the history behind each wine. It’s an experience that goes beyond just sampling wines; it’s about connecting with the culture and heritage of the region.
Cycling and Adventure Tourism in Rutherglen
Rutherglen is also an increasingly popular destination for cycling tourism, thanks to the recent development of new cycling trails that allow visitors to explore the region’s stunning landscapes. With secure bicycle storage facilities at the Victoria Hotel, cycling enthusiasts can enjoy a leisurely ride through the countryside, taking in the vineyards, rolling hills, and charming villages.
The Halpins are not only catering to wine lovers but also to adventure tourists who want to experience Rutherglen from a different perspective. The cycling trails offer a unique way to explore the area, with many visitors combining their love for cycling with their passion for wine.
A Meeting Place for Visitors
Rutherglen’s appeal extends beyond its wine and cycling. Its location makes it an ideal meeting point for people from across Australia. Just a three-hour drive from Melbourne and six hours from Sydney, it’s a perfect destination for Melburnians, Sydneysiders, or Canberrans looking to get away for a special occasion or a relaxing holiday.
The town’s mix of natural beauty, rich history, and exceptional wines makes it an ideal location for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply a weekend getaway. Visitors can enjoy not just the wine but also the friendly, welcoming atmosphere that makes Rutherglen a true hidden gem in Australia’s wine scene.
Rutherglen’s Underrated Charm
Rutherglen is a region that has managed to preserve its historical charm while adapting to the times. Its family-run wineries, rich heritage, and innovative winemaking techniques make it one of Australia’s most distinctive and underappreciated wine regions. Rutherglen is emerging as a must-see destination for both wine lovers and adventurers, thanks to new developments such as the Victoria Hotel and a thriving cycling tourism scene.
Rutherglen has something for everyone, whether you want to sip award-winning wines, explore the vineyards on two wheels, or simply enjoy the warm, authentic hospitality. This hidden gem in North-East Victoria is waiting to be discovered, offering visitors a true taste of Australian culture and wine.
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