Redbank Winery in Moonambel is the kind of place where you instantly feel like you’ve stumbled onto something special. Walking into the rustic cellar door, I was reminded of why I love exploring Victorian wineries — there’s always a story waiting to be shared. Sallys Paddock, their flagship red, feels almost like the “GOAT” of Pyrenees wines, but what makes Redbank truly golden is the warm, unhurried welcome. It’s the kind of cellar door where you don’t just taste wine; you make a memory.
One of my favourite parts of any tasting is the conversation, and Redbank did not disappoint. I ended up chatting about past vintages, how the land shapes the wine, and even swapped stories like old friends. It reminded me of another winery visit where a tasting turned into a chat about Metallica and a music festival. That’s the beauty of wineries like this — the conversation goes in unexpected directions, and suddenly the glass in your hand feels like part of a much bigger story.
And oh, Sallys Paddock. This full-bodied red (my personal weakness) hits you with layers of dark fruit, spice, and tannins that beg to be revisited, like listening to Radiohead’s OK Computer on repeat and discovering something new every time. It reminded me of when I discovered grenache on a Pyrenees wine trail — just when you think you’ve nailed down your favourites, another wine sneaks onto your list. For me, reds like this are a weekend gamechanger.
Food is simple and hearty here — ploughmans platters, local cheese, fresh coffee — nothing fussy, just what you need to slow down. Sitting on the verandah, watching the kids run around while my husband and I savoured another glass, I thought about my Labrador, Tommy, waiting back home. Dogs and wine might just be the perfect pairing — though my kids would argue woodfired pizza is just as essential!
What I love most is that Redbank feels like an underdog story done right. In a world where big names often dominate, this family winery has carved out its own space with authenticity and grit, much like my beloved Pentax K5 and Pentax KP camera's did against the giants. Supporting places like this keeps the wine world diverse and grounded, and every sip feels like a small vote for the little guy.
For those planning a Pyrenees wine adventure, Redbank is a must-stop. It’s more than just a tasting — it’s a reminder of why getting out of the city is so special. Whether you’re a fellow full-bodied red lover, a parent juggling kids, or just someone who wants to discover the next wine that sneaks onto your favourites list, Redbank delivers. And like an old Oasis track and faithful friend, "Wonderwall", anyone, you’ll find yourself humming it long after the last note fades. After all, "We see things they'll never see, You and I are gonna live forever".
Trivia time: Redbank Winery was founded by Neill and Sally Robb in 1973 with first Redbank wines in 1976 and the first Sallys Paddock in 1979. The cellar door at 1926 Sunraysia Highway Redbank is open daily from ten to five with platters coffee and cake available.
Getting there and bases
Redbank Winery is located at 1926 Sunraysia Highway Redbank VIC 3477.
- Drive times (approx.): Melbourne to Redbank two hours twenty minutes. Ballarat to Redbank one hour fifteen minutes.
- Good bases: Avoca and Moonambel with cafes galleries and cellar doors.
- Visitor Centres: Avoca Visitor Information Centre at 122 High Street for maps and touring information.
Nearby Wineries and Tourist Destinations
While you are here why not visit these other great locations:
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- Bigibila Wines: hand-crafted premium, full-bodied, fruit-driven red wines including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot with a scenic setting, lovely balcony and heaps of flowers. 85 Polleters Road, Moonambel 3478. More info here.
- Blue Pyrenees Estate: Award winning wines and vineyard dining. 656 Vinoca Road Avoca. More info here.
- Dalwhinnie Wines: Premium reds and ridge top views. 448 Taltarni Road Moonambel. More info here.
- Dogrock Winery: Boutique wines and sweeping views. 114 Degraves Road Crowlands.
- Mount Avoca Winery: Organic wines and picnic spots. Moates Lane Avoca.
- Mrs Bakers Still House: Craft gin tastings and grazing platters. 606 Elmhurst Glenpatrick Road Glenpatrick.
- Summerfield Wines: Cellar door and wood fired pizza. 5967 Stawell Avoca Road Moonambel. More info here.
- Taltarni Vineyards: Pioneering Pyrenees reds. 233 Taltarni Road Moonambel. More info here.
- Wayward Winery: Modern dining and wines. 76 Quoin Hill Road Waubra.
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