Mudgee was named ‘Moothi’ or ‘nest in the hills’ by the Wiradjuri people of the land. It is cradled by the perimeter of hills in the Cudgegong River Valley.
Mudgee is located within the Australian Geographical Indication of the Central Ranges zone and it lies on the Western Slopes of the Great Dividing Range.
The grape vines journey in the region began in 1858. Vineyards are sprawled between 450m all the way to 1100m above sea level, giving a wide range of diversity for plantings. Harvest sits around a month later than the Hunter Valley due to its cold nights which result in later budburst.
Mudgee’s sunshine hours are abundant, and rainfall is relatively low, so irrigation is often a necessity here. Soils are clay and loam and very well drained with pockets of quartz, sand and shale dotted throughout some sites.
Mudgee was named a UNESCO world heritage site due to the longevity of its grape varieties grown and the quality of its wines. The town has been awarded for its tourism on multiple occasions by the Australian Top Tourism Awards.
A large portion of Mudgee’s wine estates are family owned with over 35 cellar doors from which to choose from and over 100 wineries in production. There is a wholesome, welcoming and honesty about the region with great pride shown in their production of fine wool, cattle, lamb and cereal crops. Plus, of course, some very fine wine.
Shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, merlot and riesling have pride of place within the region and, in recent years, Mediterranean and drought-resistant varieties such as sangiovese, tempranillo, vermentino and montepulciano have become popular.
The third largest wine growing region in New South Wales, Mudgee has played an important role of the development of the state’s wine industry and helped established its high-quality levels.
Today the region is known as a destination for true country hospitality, fine wine, and charming boutique stores. Visitors frequent the historical township for its gourmet fare, cellar doors and picturesque scenery.
‘Yindyamarra’ is a core concept in Wiradjuri philosophy meaning to show respect, to go slowly, to take care and that’s exactly the right approach for your next trip to the Mudgee.
An opportunity to slow down and take in the charm of this beautiful and unique region.
