Narkoojee
Star Cellar Door & Best Food
Situated in an area of Gippsland not exactly known for fine wine or dining, Narkoojee is an oasis for the senses. The father-son team of Harry and Axel Friend are a passionate duo and while their original cellar door was a modest affair, the current facilities are polished and spacious, with a restaurant serving delectable lunches and dinners. As for the wines themselves, they are outstanding. The Valerie range, incorporating chardonnay, pinot noir and shiraz, is sourced from exceptional fruit in the vineyard, resulting in sumptuous wines that reward many years of cellaring. While the Reserve and Premium ranges are at a lower price point, they are also wines of immense quality and flavour. Wineries like Narkoojee remind you that Gippsland should be on everyone’s radar. BRENDAN BLACK
OUTSTANDING WINE: 2019 Narkoojee Valerie Chardonnay, A$68