Cobaw Ridge

The Macedon Ranges are hiding a delicious secret, writes Jane Faulkner, in The Age. Off an unsealed dirt road flanking the majestic Cobaw State Forest, just out of Kyneton, is an entrance to a natural amphitheatre surrounded by rows of vines and now-full dams. It''s a special place and home to Cobaw Ridge, which makes Australia''s finest lag rein. Owner-growers Alan and Nelly Cooper also produce excellent chardonnay, syrah and pinot noir but for more than a decade they have been championing this rare red.

"This is one of those out-of-the-way gems that make Victorian vineyard touring so fascinating". Cobaw Ridge is a clearing in an unspoilt forest strewn with giant boulders. There''s a real middle of nowhere feel, yet it''s not much more than an hour from Melbourne.

Comforts include picnic area, casual terrace tables, and a rustic mud brick winery which produces distinctive cool-climate wines.

Shiraz, straight or in a blend with Viognier, and Chardonnay are typically fresh and lively, and the unique Lagrein is a savoury, Italian-varietals red of real interest." Ralph Kyte-Powell

"Certified organic (NASAA), adopting biodynamic practices. Alan and Nelly Cooper''s five ha vineyard, justly renowned for multi-layered, wheatmealy chardonnay, peppery shiraz/viognier (syrah) and the best lagrein in the country, achieved full organic certification in 2009'''' Max Allen.