Few wine regions in Australia blend heritage, innovation and heart quite like the King Valley in north-east Victoria. Famous for its Italian varietals and family-run estates, it’s a place where a visit never feels rushed — it feels like being welcomed into someone’s home.

Our recent Fabulous Ladies King Valley Tour took us deep inside that hospitality. Over the weekend we were hosted by some truly remarkable women shaping the region’s future. Here are the top four wineries you can (and absolutely should) visit — plus one very special stop that’s normally closed to visitors but opened exclusively for us.

1. Brown Brothers

There are few names more intertwined with Australian wine than Brown Brothers — and today it’s the women of the family helping steer the ship. On our visit, sisters Katherine and Emma Brown and chief winemaker Cate Looney personally hosted us for two private masterclasses held in the iconic barrel room.

We tasted through both their experimental and Patricia ranges, and learned how female leadership continues to shape one of Australia’s most recognised wine families. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking depth, heritage and a thoroughly modern perspective.

2. Pizzini Wines

Our day at Pizzini Wines was the perfect expression of Italian hospitality — generous, joyful and completely immersive! We were expertly hosted by Natalie Pizzini, who guided us through a relaxed tasting of their iconic Italian varietals before leading us on a walk through the vineyards themselves. Natalie’s deep knowledge and warm, easy manner gave us a real sense of the land and the family behind the wines.

One of the highlights of the entire tour was our hands-on cooking class with Katrina Pizzini, whose reputation in the kitchen is legendary throughout the King Valley and beyond! We rolled pasta, learned family recipes and then gathered under the trees in the garden for a long, laughter-filled lunch — with more wine, of course. It was a beautiful reminder that at Pizzini, food, wine and family aren’t separate experiences. They’re all part of the same Italian way of living.

3. Dal Zotto Wines

While Dal Zotto is famous for being the home of Australia’s first Prosecco, what’s less widely known — but absolutely fundamental — is the role of the women who built and continue to shape this remarkable family winery.

We were hosted by Elena Dal Zotto, the matriarch and original co-founder, and her daughter-in-law Simone Dal Zotto, whose work and presence are central to both the family and the business. Their stories, warmth and humour brought a whole new depth to our understanding of the Dal Zotto legacy.

Too often, the women behind iconic wineries remain unacknowledged in public narratives. Having Elena and Simone guide our visit made this stop not only delicious and joyful, but also incredibly meaningful — a beautiful celebration of the women whose hands and hearts have shaped this family’s place in Australian wine.

4. Sam Miranda Wines

A highlight of our tour was a gorgeous hosted lunch at Sam Miranda Wines, where we were warmly welcomed by Rachel Miranda and her daughter Allegra, who is currently studying winemaking — making her the fourth generation in this remarkable family.

Set within their striking architectural cellar door, our shared platter lunch showcased not only the region’s produce but the Miranda family’s enduring generosity and hospitality. As well as their delicious wines of course!  It’s the perfect stop for a relaxed, indulgent break.

+ 1 Exclusive Experience: Symphonia Wines

While Symphonia doesn’t have a public cellar door, it was one of the most memorable experiences of our tour — and a shining example of why our small, women-focused tours are so special.

Owner Suzanne Evans and her daughter Sophie welcomed us into their garden, setting up a private tasting under a leafy tree beside their vineyard. Symphonia is known for growing varieties rarely found elsewhere in Australia — think Albariño, Tempranillo, Gamay, Durif, Tannat, and more — and their dedication to innovation is extraordinary.

This was a rare, behind-the-scenes moment created just for us. The kind of access you won’t find on any map, and one we’re so proud to offer our guests.

Ready to Sip Your Way Through the King Valley?

Only a 3-hour drive North East of Melbourne, the King Valley is a delight for wine, food and nature lovers. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or dreaming of joining us on our next Fabulous Ladies adventure, the King Valley delivers warmth, generosity and wine that’s definitely worth travelling for.

Make sure you’re a member (it’s FREE to join!) to hear about upcoming tours first — they always sell quickly. Or see what other member tours we’ve got coming up here.