48 Hours in Gourmet Milawa
Tucked away in Victoria's High Country, the Milawa Gourmet Region is a foodie paradise ripe for culinary adventures. This charming area is renowned for its rich bounty of gourmet delights, where local producers craft exceptional food and wine with passion and skill. As you embark on your 48-hour journey, prepare to tantalize your taste buds with an array of artisan cheeses, delectable honey, seasonal mustards, and famous handmade bread and pastries. The region's fertile lands yield world-class wines, perfect for savouring at one of the many inviting cellar doors. Whether you're indulging in a leisurely lunch at a vineyard with panoramic views or exploring quaint shops brimming with local produce, Milawa offers a feast for the senses. It's not just about eating and drinking - it's about experiencing the joy of fresh, locally sourced flavours in a picturesque setting. Welcome to Milawa, where every bite tells a story, and every sip is a celebration of the region's mouth-watering heritage.
Day 1
Lunch
The Milawa Cheese Factory is a stellar first stop for launching your gastronomic quest - a cherished local icon and an absolute must-visit for any cheese aficionado. As you step into this rustic old butter factory, you're greeted by the enticing aroma of expertly crafted cheeses. Here, you can sample a range of flavours from smooth and buttery bries to crumbly aged cheddars and pungent, tangy blue veins.
Savour a delicious cheese platter for lunch, or wander next door to The Milawa Kitchen for coffee, pastries, and light meals.
Also situated within the Milawa Cheese complex is the cellar door for Wood Park Wines, where you'll have your first chance to sample a selection of vintages. Wood Park Wines showcases all the classic King Valley varieties ideal for pairing with food - Prosecco, Pinot Gris, Sangiovese, and Cabernet, along with a line-up of intriguing, less-common varietals.
Afternoon
Check in at Lancemore Milawa at 2pm and settle into the comfort of your room. Once you've unpacked, let the exploration begin! Scope out the exquisite Restaurant Merlot, relax in style with a book in the plush guest lounges, or step out onto The Terrace to sip wine while gazing over the rolling vineyards. Take a dip in the outdoor pool, sweat it out in the sauna , or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the manicured gardens. At Lancemore Milawa we promise more than just a place to sleep, every moment is an invitation to unwind and revel in the finer things.
Just a swift five-minute drive away awaits Sam Miranda King Valley. Here, a striking subterranean passage leads you to a chic, underground cellar door and restaurant. Drawing from their rich Italian heritage, the Miranda family has honed their winemaking talents since the 1930s. Today, they offer a tasting experience that delves into premium Mediterranean varietals from Italy, Spain, France, and Georgia. Indulge in sharing plates shaped from seasonal, locally sourced, and estate-grown produce. Wander through the eco-friendly organic garden, chat with the free-range chickens, or let the kids frolic in the expansive farm setting.
Evening
Named in honour of the luscious Merlot grapes flourishing just outside, the Merlot Restaurant Bar at Lancemore Milawa boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that not only showcase the stunning vineyard views but also the elegantly refurbished courtyard. As you settle into this idyllic setting, prepare to be enticed by a seasonal menu that celebrates the best of local produce. Savor the delicate flavours of Harrietville smoked trout, the richness of Milawa honey glazed duck breast, the succulence of King Valley Angus eye fillet, and the creative twist of Milawa cheese chevre tortellini. Complementing these dishes, the wine list features an exquisite selection from local and international vintners, alongside expertly mixed cocktails using spirits from nearby distilleries, and beers from the finest breweries in northeast Victoria. Dining at Merlot Restaurant Bar is not just a meal; it's a journey through the heart of Milawa's gourmet landscape.
Winter – Relish the cosy warmth of a crackling fire as you toast s'mores and sip on aromatic mulled wine.
Summer – As the sun sets, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, plunge into the soothing coolness of the pool for a wonderful end to a hot summer day.
Day 2
Morning
Kick off your morning with breakfast at Lancemore before embarking on a scenic adventure along the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail. Whether on foot or by bike you're set for a lovely 5km journey to the quaint town of Oxley. Midway, pause to capture the rustic allure of the historic Oxley Flour Mill. Built in 1868, this red-brick beauty is a photographer's dream. Continue your exploration to the popular King River Café, where you can reward yourself with coffee and morning tea. At the eastern end of town, you'll find a couple of nice picnic spots at Memorial Park and the riverside Stan Allen Reserve, just across the King River Bridge.
Lancemore Milawa provides two e-bikes for hire, with more options available at West End Cycles in Wangaratta.
Lunch
Straight across the road from Lancemore, you'll find the esteemed Brown Brothers winery, a cornerstone of local viticulture since John Francis Brown planted its roots in 1889. This family-operated gem has evolved through the ages, earning a reputation as pioneers and visionaries on the wine scene, both domestically and internationally. Dive into a epicurean adventure at the Brown Brothers Restaurant, which recently clinched a Chef's Hat in the Age's Good Food Guide 2023. Treat yourself to their sumptuous seasonal set menu, offering nine finger-licking share plates flawlessly paired with their wines - a sensory overload for any gastronome. Also available are degustation options and group packages to enhance your food and wine pilgrimage. Post-lunch, wander into the expansive cellar door where over 60 varieties of wine await your discovery. Don’t forget to check out the estate's playful side with a kids' playground, outdoor chess game, and sprawling lawns well-suited for a leisurely afternoon sprawl.
Afternoon
Hurdle Creek Still is a quaint, family-owned distillery nestled in the countryside, where artisan gins and spirits are refined with meticulous care. Step into the rustic charm of their stillhouse, and you're in for a hands-on experience of the gin-making process. Here, you'll meet Simon Brooke-Taylor and Wendy Williams, the passionate duo who are eager to showcase their still, walk you through the intricate process of distilling, and guide you in a tasting that highlights the unique flavours and aromas of their boutique gins and liquors. It's a fairy-tale stop for spirit enthusiasts looking to delve into the artistry behind gin production.
Settled along the banks of the King River, John Gehrig Wines is another family-run vineyard with deep roots, dating back to 1976. Step into their cozy tasting room to try out an array of handcrafted wines, from robust reds to refreshing whites. Sip on a glass while enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards and river, a tranquil backdrop that complements the vineyard’s warm hospitality.
At the southern edge of Whitfield, King River Brewing offers a unique slice of hop-infused heaven. Founded in 2016 by the dynamic husband and wife team, Nathan and Brianna Munt, this microbrewery and taproom serves up fresh, innovative beers from twelve rotating taps, all brewed right on site. Housed within an original tobacco kiln, the rustic taproom is superbly balanced with the modern zest of craft beer. Outside, the expansive beer garden offers a shaded oasis for alfresco dining, complete with a vibrant space for children to play. Launch into their menu featuring wood-fired pizzas, snacks, and hearty meals - suitably matched to their artisanal beers.
Evening
Back at Lancemore Milawa, a brief five-minute stroll takes you to the town junction, where a variety of food and beverage dining options await.
Ava offers a fresh take on casual fine dining with its stylish, laid-back ambiance and a menu brimming with local flavours. This dining oasis strikes a seamless balance between elegance and comfort, making it the hotshot venue for those who crave innovative cuisine in a cosy atmosphere. The menu features beautifully presented dishes with fresh local ingredients, inviting diners to savour each nuanced flavour. Set in a space that's both simple and sophisticated, Ava has also become the local hotspot for expertly mixed cocktails, adding a vibrant layer to its culinary appeal.
The Milawa Hotel (built in 1865) is the quintessential country pub with a laid-back welcoming vibe. This local favourite invites you to pull up a chair, grab a cold drink, and mingle with the friendly townsfolk. Less formal than a restaurant but brimming with character, the pub offers a glimpse into the heart of Milawa through its warm, authentic ambiance. Whether you're in the mood to kick back with a local brew or feast on some hearty pub fare, the Milawa Pub Hotel is the perfect place to chillout and feel like part of the community.
Nestled within the historic walls of the old Emu building, and constructed from hand-made bricks in 1861, Henley's Wine Bar & Kitchen offers a fascinating blend of history and modern gastronomy. This Milawa landmark has lived many lives, from a bustling travel depot and hotel to a courthouse and public hall. Next to the main building lies an old police lock-up with a storied past, once serving as a holding cell for the infamous bushranger, Ned Kelly. Today, Henley's transforms this rich heritage into a homely, inviting space where wine lovers and food enthusiasts can indulge in a curated selection of wines, cocktails, and contemporary cuisine.
Day 3
Morning
Rejoice in a leisurely morning sleep-in, followed by breakfast at Lancemore, all before a relaxed 10 am checkout.
Before you hit the road and bid farewell, make a final stop at Milawa Bakery Cafe, a treasure trove of tasty treats where the scent of freshly brewed coffee blends seamlessly with the irresistible aroma of artisan breads baked daily. The cafe also serves quiches, freshly made sandwiches, wraps, and salads, alongside locally stocked goodies.
Extend your Journey
If you find yourself with time to spare, venture further up the King Valley on the Prosecco Road route for a deeper dive into more renowned vineyards and scenic attractions. Make stops at celebrated wineries such as Dal Zotto, Pizzini, Christmont, and Politini, each offering a unique glimpse into the valley's winemaking traditions. Don’t miss the Mountain View Hotel at Whitfield, for a leisurely lunch. Complete your journey with visits to the dazzling Paradise Falls and the photogenic Powers Lookout, where the vistas are as captivating as the wines.
Packages
Lancemore packages add a variety of inclusions, discounts, and complimentary goodies from local providers.
WRITTEN BY: Craig Sheather
