Carrajung Estate

To get to Carrajung Estate, wind your way through the native bushland of the Strzelecki Ranges, and when you think you’re lost or you’ve gone too far, push on. The long drive – despite a few doubtful “are we there yet?” moments – is both scenic and worth the journey.

Surrounded by nature reserves, this verdant hilltop estate has been slowly shaped by Ann and Graham Morris, who planted their first vines for Toms Cap Vineyard back in 1992. The 100-acre property undulates in all directions from the cellar door and restaurants, making this an idyllic spot for a slow weekend lunch.

Start your visit at the cellar door, where you can talk you through their single-estate wines. Toms Cap used to grow seven acres of shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and riesling, which were vinified by local winemaker Marcus Satchell. Enjoy a cheese board in the surrounding gardens with a glass of rosé, shiraz or one of the winery’s three méthode traditionnelle sparklings. Then settle into the restaurant for braised short rib with celeriac puree and brussel sprouts or twice-baked duck leg with braised kohlrabi and orange jus.

Save some time for a stroll through the fruit and olive trees, the abundant kitchen garden, and – of course – the vines. If you opt to stay the night at one of the on-site cottages, you might catch a glimpse of a wombat, koala or kangaroo as sunset blankets the summit.