Bendigo Wineries We Visit

Starting with Sandhurst Ridge

I would describe this as the winery nestled in the forest. As you leave Eaglehawk, you'll drive into the forest and be greeted by a stunning vineyard through its stone gates. A long driveway leads you past the vines to the cellar door, which features boutique accommodations—two units to your right overlook a serene dam.

Upon entering the cozy cellar door, you'll find a warm atmosphere, thanks to the inviting wood fire. Our host, Stacey, welcomes us and introduces the award-winning wines of Sandhurst Ridge.

We learn that Stacey and her family took over the vineyard in January 2025 during the harvest season from Paul and Karen Greblo, who established the vineyard in 1990. Now, Sandhurst Ridge is co-managed by Stacey and her husband Andrew, along with her parents Joanne and David Barnden, and her sister Rachel and brother-in-law Matthew Carnell—a classically trained French chef and owner of Daylesford’s renowned Bistro Terroir. Their professional backgrounds encompass real estate, construction, hospitality, and retail, which are not traditional routes to viticulture.

Here, we have the opportunity to sample their delightful wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Cabernet Merlot, Fringe Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo, and Shiraz.

Sandhurst Ridge offers exceptional wine at an amazing winery—definitely worth a visit!