Overview
Set against the rolling hills of Nashdale and only a short drive from Orange, Rowlee Wines is renowned for its cool-climate wines. This family-owned estate has expanded its offering with Rowlee Dining and Bar and a luxury guesthouse, providing the ultimate food and wine escape in one of Australia's premier wine regions of Orange.
Due to its elevation and situation in the cool-climate region, Rowlee makes stunning examples of riesling, pinot noir but also bigger reds like shiraz. At the cellar door, you can partake in a tasting and level it up with a cheese pairing, snack pairing and more as the talented cellar door staff brings you through the range of wines on offer.
After your tasting, head out to the Garden Bar (open during the warmer months, from Friday to Sunday, from 12 noon until sunset) and sip on your vino as you take in the breathtaking views across the vines — sure to be at budburst in spring or lush with new grapes in summer. If you're after something more substantial, make your way to Rowlee's 100-seat restaurant and bar which takes the estate's stunning natural backdrop. Sip on a glass of Rowlee's award-winning pinot noir or riesling, or explore their cocktail menu crafted for every occasion. Whether you're here for casual afternoon drinks or a full-blown degustation dinner, the options are endless.
Here, you can expect a share-style, seasonal menu designed by Head Chef Simon Furley (formerly of Homage and Beechmont Estate), where sustainable, hyper-local produce is the star. Furley, originally from England, before he settled in Australia, honed his craft across Europe from Grecian resorts, Michelin-starred eateries and even ski chalets and luxe yachts. Expect influences from his European background balanced with local produce and sensibilities on your plate. He is passionate about heroing local produce with a "leave no waste" philosophy. Try the leek dish where the leek is used in five different ways to ensure the entire vegetable is used.
The restaurant boasts distinct dining spaces — think cosy lounges, an elegant dining room, and a verandah with sweeping vineyard views — making it the perfect spot for a long, sunlit lunch or a candle-lit evening affair. Furley's share-style dishes pair perfectly with Rowlee's wines, making this venue a go-to for serious food and wine lovers.
For those looking to extend their visit, Rowlee's on-site Guesthouse offers a secluded and elegant escape. Surrounded by vines and a traditional English garden, this charming accommodation lets you soak in the vineyard's serene atmosphere. The historic abode has everything you need to get away from it all: abundant snacks, a bottle of wine on arrival, a comfy king-sized bed and a beautifully fitted-out bathroom with a free-standing bath so you can sip, soak and relax.
Rowlee Wines offers the "Ultimate Wine Escape" package, which includes a stay at the guesthouse, a private cellar door tasting, lunch with matched wines, a picnic hamper to enjoy at your leisure and a half-dozen bottles of Rowlee's best to take home. It's the dream weekend for those keen to explore Orange's cool-climate wine scene in style.
Whether you're after a day trip with lunch and wine or a full weekend escape, Rowlee Wines delivers a premier Orange experience.
Top Image: Destination NSW
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