The north-east wine zone is a gem in the heart of regional Victoria, which is increasingly gaining a reputation for producing unique wines.
Swanpool Creek Shiraz, produced in a valley close to the town that shares its name, is one of those, and it just took out a significant industry award.
Vigneron Jessica Davison said Swanpool Creek won two bronze awards at the North East Wine Challenge for its 2019 and 2020 Shiraz.
“This year, the competition was really tough,” she said.
“We were up against some well-known wine producers, so we felt very excited and proud to win two awards.”
Swanpool Creek specialises in its cool-climate Shiraz, which is a little lighter than those produced in warmer climates.
“It’s a really nice Shiraz that can be enjoyed all year round,” Jessica said.
“The characteristics of the soil and heavy rainfall lend themselves to this wine.
“The climate allows us to keep the grapes on the vine a bit longer, which lets them ripen up really nicely.”
Swanpool Creek Shiraz is available from the Bottle-O on Bridge St, Benalla, and at the Swanpool general store.