Orange NSW: Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour

If you’re into wine and want a taste of how it’s really made, the Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour might be worth your time. Promising a closer look at the ins and outs of winemaking, this experience offers more than just a tasting—it’s an opportunity to see sustainability in action and learn about a family-run operation in Orange, NSW.

We especially like how this tour combines a practical look at the process with a guided tasting, giving you both insight and flavor. Plus, the fact that it’s certified carbon neutral adds a layer of responsibility that’s increasingly important for today’s travelers. That said, it’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for kids under 18, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with family.

All in all, this experience is best suited for wine lovers who enjoy a bit of education, appreciate sustainability, and want a relaxed, informative outing with friendly guides.

Key Points

• In-depth look at winemaking: Walk through the entire process, from grape crushing to bottling.
• Sustainable focus: The winery is Climate Active certified and carbon neutral, highlighting eco-conscious practices.
• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides answer questions and share intriguing insights.
• Tasting included: Enjoy a variety of award-winning wines, with plenty of opportunity to ask about each one.
• Historical charm: The tour takes place in a historic building—originally an apple packing shed—adding character.
• Family-friendly note: Not suitable for children under 18, so it’s more of an adult outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Ross Hill Behind-the-Scenes Tour

If you’re visiting Orange and want to deepen your understanding of winemaking, the Ross Hill Winery tour offers a well-rounded experience in just an hour and a half. It’s clear from reviews that the guides, especially Lauren, make a real effort to provide engaging, substantive information. As one guest from the UK mentioned, “Great talk from Lauren. She answered all our questions and gave us plenty of information.” That kind of personal touch really makes a difference, especially if you’re curious about the technical and sustainable aspects of wine production.

The Itinerary and What You’ll See

The tour starts promptly at 10 am at the Ross Hill Wines Cellar Door. From there, you’ll be taken behind the scenes to see how the winery operates. The location itself is a fascinating blend of history and modern innovation, housed in the original apple packing shed on Wallace Lane. This setting adds a cozy, almost rustic feel that contrasts nicely with the high-tech winemaking equipment you’ll observe.

You’ll learn about the journey of grapes from vineyard to glass, with explanations covering the crushing, fermentation, and bottling processes. While not overly technical, guides tend to share enough detail to satisfy curious travelers—without making it feel like a lecture. One reviewer appreciated the balance, saying, “Great winery tours with wine tasting and commentary.”

The Sustainability Angle

One of the highlights for us is the winery’s Climate Active certification and its claim to be carbon neutral. It’s rare to find a vineyard openly committed to environmental responsibility, and this focus adds meaning to your tasting experience. Knowing that the wines are made with such care for the planet can add a layer of satisfaction, especially if you’re eco-conscious.

The Tasting Experience

Following the tour, from around 10:30 am to 11:30 am, you move into the tasting. Here, you’ll sample a selected range of Ross Hill’s award-winning wines. Reviewers consistently mention the friendliness of the staff and the quality of the wines. Dean from Australia mentioned, “I believe I tasted one or two more wines than I expected,” which suggests the tasting is generous and engaging.

The guided tasting allows you to ask questions about each wine, making it educational as well as enjoyable. This part of the experience is often described as relaxed, with guides happy to share insights into the taste profiles and what makes Ross Hill’s offerings stand out.

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Group Size and Accessibility

The tour is designed to accommodate small groups, making it intimate enough to have meaningful conversations with the guides. It’s also wheelchair accessible, which is a considerate touch for visitors with mobility concerns.

Duration and Price

At just 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable outing—perfect if you’re fitting in multiple activities or simply want a relaxed morning. While specific pricing isn’t listed here, the experience includes both the tour and tasting, which provides good value for wine enthusiasts looking for an educational experience without a hefty price tag.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits those who are genuinely interested in understanding how wine is made, particularly those drawn to sustainable practices. It’s ideal for adults who appreciate a relaxed, informative environment and enjoy guided tastings. If you’re a fan of history, eco-consciousness, or just want a break from sightseeing to enjoy some local wine with knowledgeable hosts, this tour hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

Ross Hill Winery’s behind-the-scenes tour offers a genuine peek into a family-operated, eco-friendly winery. It’s a smart choice for those who want to go beyond the usual tasting experience and learn about the real work that goes into producing award-winning wines. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the tour accessible and engaging.

While it’s not meant for children, adults will find it a valuable and enjoyable addition to their Orange itinerary. It’s a great way to spend a morning, combining education, flavor, and a commitment to sustainability—all in one compact, well-organized package.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic experience that emphasizes quality and responsibility, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who value storytelling and expert guidance as part of their wine journey.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, as it’s a wine-focused experience designed for adults.

How long does the tour last?
The behind-the-scenes tour is approximately 1.5 hours, including the tasting.

What’s included in the experience?
You’ll get a guided behind-the-scenes look at the winery’s operations and a tasting of several of their wines.

Is there a specific starting time?
Tours start daily at 10 am, but check availability for your preferred date.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, which keeps your plans flexible. Payment is due at the time of the tour.

What makes Ross Hill Winery special?
Their commitment to sustainability, being Climate Active certified and carbon neutral, adds a meaningful dimension to your visit.

Would I recommend this?
Absolutely for anyone interested in winemaking, sustainability, or simply looking for a relaxed, informative tasting experience in Orange.

In short, the Ross Hill Winery behind-the-scenes tour combines authenticity, education, and sustainability in a way that makes it a worthwhile addition to your Orange visit—especially if you love wine and want to see how it’s crafted with care.

You can check availability for your dates here: