Just outside of Maffra, this restaurant brings together local produce, wine and cider among 10 acres of cool-climate vines.

In early 2019, Molly Work and Jim Inglis (of nearby Sale’s Portside Food + Wine) took the reins of Avon Ridge Vineyard’s restaurant and set about breathing new life into the iconic property. From Friday to Sunday, locals and visitors take to the lawn to enjoy breakfast or lunch overlooking the bucolic vines and hills. The menu offers gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian annotations, and the wine list features Gippsland, Mornington Peninsula and French drops.

Live music draws a crowd on Sundays, when (weather permitting) The Vines on Avon also sets up a retro caravan to serve cocktails in the garden.

The vines were originally planted in 1987 and have been tended by the Gray family since 2008. Winemaker Xavier Goodridge produces both single-block wines and blends from the Avon Ridge vineyard, which is currently in-conversion to organic principles. Cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir, sauvignon blanc and chardonnay can be enjoyed in-house at The Vines on Avon or taken to-go, along with a range of ciders made using the seconds from Pakenham apple and pear farmers.

Explore Gippsland further using our detailed Out of Town to Central Gippsland guide.