Regional Tasting Series: Gippsland

It's hard not to get a bit excited about the wines coming out of Gippsland these days. Its equally hard to neatly sum-up and pigeon hole such a vast and diverse region. It's driven by a new generation of winemakers that are working together behind the scenes with a shared passion and zest that is infectious. For many they are putting down their first set of roots both figuratively and literally and the results are compelling to say the least.

Its unspoilt beaches are a far cry from the rammed shores of the Bellarine and Mornington peninsula set against a backdrop of gentle rolling hills, alpine valleys and lakes. The pace is different here, times slows, the people friendly and relaxed and it shows in the wines - effusive and easy-going. Wines that are supple and open but detailed with elegant structure and nascent energy.

The range of microclimates are home to a number of different varieties with a strong focus on aromatic whites, chardonnay, cabernet and of course pinot noir. The region embraces and champions a wide range of wine styles from classically fashioned examples to more modern renditions that embrace a willingness to experiment and explore in the winery.

What an exciting time to get in on the ground floor here. There is a wonderful groundswell of interest and this relatively young region still has so much potential to reveal to us yet.