Bendigo Wine Makers

Harcourt Valley Vineyards

First established in 1975 by Ray and Barbara Broughton, it was the site of an old apple orchard, which they replaced with vines – Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling – a total of 5 acres.

After many years of hard labour, devotion and deprivation, the Broughtons handed the reigns over to John and Barbara Livingstone, along with sons Kye and Quinn.

Barbara, the new one, being a city lass was willing to give it a go for 6 months – that was in 1988 - the rest is history.

Barbara’s Shiraz was created by Barbara Broughton, something to do with the ‘full bodied red with the big nose.’ With the ‘new’ Barbara it was able to live on and still remains the flagship of the vineyard.

Since taking the reins the Livingstones planted a further 5 acres – the new plantings include Malbec, Cabernet Frank and Chardonnay. The vines have thrived on the well drained granetic soils, and the grape quality reflects the advantage of the cool climate conditions, especially the long ripening period in autumn. Quality is the prime objective, cropping at between 2-3 tons to the acre.

All fruit is nurtured under the watchful eye of (attention to detail) Barbara. Top quality fruit has resulted in top quality wines of class and character. Only estate fruit is used, hand picked and the wine is hand crafted.

The granite cellar has a wonderful rustic charm, which lends to ambient tasting surrounds.

The loss of Barbara’s husband John to cancer in 2004 has led to an inspirational story of guts and determination. It is a story of friends, family and a close knit community coming together to make it happen. The winemaking which had always been John’s domain, has become a steep learning curve for Barb and her 2 sons.

Cellar Door

11.00 am - 6.00 pm (Daylight Savings)
11.00 am - 5.00 pm (Winter).

Sample these exquisite wines at the unique granite cellar door whilst viewing many pieces of local art on display

3339 Calder Highway, Harcourt

119 km from Melbourne GPO on Calder Highway, 30 km south of Bendigo on Calder Highway.

Contact Harcourt Valley Vineyards