If you’re planning a visit to Orange, NSW, and love discovering how wine is made, the Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour offers an engaging peek into the craft of winemaking. This 1.5-hour experience combines insightful commentary, a walk through the winery’s historic and innovative spaces, and the chance to taste some award-winning, eco-friendly wines.
It’s an excellent choice for oenophiles, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to understand what makes Ross Hill stand out in Australia’s vibrant wine scene.
What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, you get to explore a certified carbon-neutral winery, a rarity that underscores Ross Hill’s commitment to sustainability. Second, the guided tasting allows visitors to savor the fruits of the winery’s labor—crafted with care and passion—while gaining insights directly from knowledgeable guides.
On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour is geared toward adults, so children under 18 aren’t suited for this experience. Also, if you’re short on time or prefer more extensive tasting sessions, this might feel a bit brief. Still, it’s ideal for those who appreciate quality over quantity and want a genuine look at an environmentally conscious winery.
This experience is best suited for wine lovers, eco-conscious travelers, or anyone interested in local Orange wines. It offers a blend of education, authentic production insights, and relaxed tasting—perfect for a morning activity or a leisurely afternoon break.
Key Points
- Educational and Behind-the-Scenes: You’ll learn how Ross Hill’s award-winning wines are produced, from vineyard to bottle.
- Sustainable Practices: The winery’s Climate Active certification highlights its commitment to being carbon neutral, adding a feel-good factor.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff, like Lauren, provide engaging commentary, answering questions and sharing insights.
- Authentic Tasting Experience: The guided tasting showcases a selection of wines crafted on-site, giving you a true sense of the winery’s style and passion.
- Historic Setting: The winery operates in the original apple packing shed, blending history with modern winemaking.
- Flexible Booking: You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and cancellations are simple—up to 24 hours in advance.
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
The Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour kicks off at the Cellar Door, located conveniently on Wallace Lane. The meeting point is easy to find, with coordinates provided for GPS navigation. The tour runs daily at 10 am, making it a great option for morning explorers who want to make the most of their day in Orange.
The duration of 1.5 hours strikes a nice balance—long enough to get a meaningful look at the winemaking process without feeling rushed. The tour is led by an English-speaking guide, ensuring clear explanations and engaging storytelling. The group size appears manageable, fostering an intimate atmosphere that encourages questions and interaction.
What makes Ross Hill’s approach special is its focus on sustainability. The winery is Climate Active certified, meaning it operates in a way that minimizes its carbon footprint. This information adds a layer of meaning for visitors who increasingly want their wine experiences to align with environmental values. We loved the way the guides explained the careful steps involved in turning grapes into wine—covering everything from crushing and fermentation to bottling—making the process accessible even to novices.
The tour takes place in the original apple packing shed, now repurposed for winemaking, which adds a nostalgic, authentic feel. You’ll see equipment and practices that have been part of the winery’s evolution, blending tradition with innovation. During the tour, your guide might highlight how the vineyard’s roots stretch back to 1994, giving you a sense of the long-standing dedication behind Ross Hill’s wines.
Following the tour, you’ll move into the tasting room from 10:30 to 11:30 am. Here, you can savour several wines, each showcasing different varieties and styles produced at Ross Hill. Reviewers note that the staff is friendly and knowledgeable—Dean mentioned, “the personnel were super friendly,” and that he probably tasted “one or two more wines” than he might have elsewhere. This guided tasting is not just about drinking; it’s an educational experience that explains the nuances and craft behind each pour.
The wines are praised for their quality and being part of an environmentally conscious process. Many reviewers have remarked on the guides’ expertise—one described a “great talk from Lauren,” who answered all questions and provided ample information. It’s clear that Ross Hill takes pride in their storytelling and transparency, making the experience both informative and personable.
You can also read our reviews of more wine tours in Orange New South Wales
What to Expect at Each Step
Arrival and Introduction: When you arrive at the Cellar Door, you’ll meet your guide and get a brief overview of the day’s schedule. Expect a warm welcome and a chance to ask initial questions about the winery.
Tour of the Winemaking Area: The guide will lead you through the facilities, explaining each phase of production. You’ll learn about the care involved in creating award-winning wines and see firsthand some of the equipment used. The historic setting in the original apple packing shed adds charm and authenticity to this part of the experience.
Insights into Sustainability: Ross Hill’s commitment to carbon neutrality is emphasized throughout the tour. You might find this especially interesting if you value eco-friendly practices in food and beverage production. This focus on sustainability is a key differentiator and adds depth to your understanding of modern winemaking.
Guided Tasting: After the tour, the focus shifts to tasting. You’ll sample a selection of wines, guided by knowledgeable staff. The tasting is structured but relaxed, allowing for questions and discussions about the characteristics of each wine. This part of the experience is where many reviewers feel they gain the most—truly understanding the potential and craft behind each bottle.
The Sum Up and Reflection: The experience wraps up with time to purchase wines or simply soak in the atmosphere. Many visitors note the friendly staff and the opportunity to deepen their appreciation for local, sustainable wines.
Analyzing the Value
At its core, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, tasting, and eco-consciousness. The price, which is reasonable for a 1.5-hour guided experience, includes a quality guided tour and a tasting of multiple wines. Considering the small group size, knowledgeable guides, and the authentic setting, it’s a valuable experience for those interested in more than just a tasting flight—it’s about understanding what goes into each bottle.
You’re not just getting a quick look or superficial tasting; you’re gaining insights into winemaking techniques, sustainable practices, and the story behind the wines. This adds layers of appreciation that can transform a simple tasting into a memorable learning experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about the craft, eco-conscious travelers wanting to support sustainable practices, and anyone curious about local Orange wines. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy historic settings, as the winery’s original apple packing shed offers a unique, nostalgic backdrop.
However, it’s not suitable for children, and if you prefer more extensive tastings or longer tours, you might find the 1.5-hour format a bit brief. Still, for a well-rounded introduction to Ross Hill Wines, this tour hits the mark.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sum Up
The Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour offers a compelling glimpse into the world of environmentally aware winemaking. With its friendly guides, authentic setting, and delicious, thoughtfully produced wines, it’s an experience that balances education with enjoyment. The focus on sustainability, combined with the chance to taste some of Orange’s best wines, makes it a genuine highlight for visitors who want to connect with the local wine scene on a meaningful level.
Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover, a traveler seeking authentic regional experiences, or someone interested in sustainable practices, this tour provides excellent value. It’s a relaxed yet informative journey that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the craft—and a few bottles to take home.
Orange NSW: Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is only for participants over 18 years old, as it involves wine tasting and is designed for adult audiences.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience, including the tour and tasting, takes about 1.5 hours.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.
Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility for your travel plans.
Are the tours wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the tour.
What makes Ross Hill Wines unique?
Their commitment to being a Climate Active certified carbon-neutral winery sets them apart, emphasizing sustainability in every bottle.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking through the winery and tasting in a relaxed setting are recommended.
Do I get to taste all the wines produced at Ross Hill?
You’ll taste a carefully curated selection of wines during the guided tasting, highlighting their award-winning and popular varieties.