Murray Darling/Mildura wine region

This region was virtual desert before irrigation transformed it in the late 1800s. As drought challenges its calm river life and food production, resilient winemakers are growing strong flavoured and alternative wines.

Stefano de Pieri, the renowned chef, local restaurant owner and television celebrity, says Mildura is still the engine of Victoria’s wine export industry, making up to 80 per cent of the State’s wine grape production. 'We produce traditional and alternative varieties, particularly warm-climate varieties,' he says.

The first grape vines were planted here in 1888. Mildura is well known for its awardwinning wines and the spectrum of varieties it produces, including well-priced, easy-drinking wine such as chardonnay.

For something quite different, The Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show (held in Mildura each November) highlights the more unusual wines, which are becoming popular worldwide.

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