Downing Estate Vineyard was established in 1995 by Bob and Joy Downing. It is a family owned and operated vineyard located on the corner of Drummonds Lane and Northern Highway, approx. 6kms north of Heathcote Township.

The 10ha vineyard is planted with 75% Shiraz, 20% Cabernet and 5% Merlot and operates on a philosophy of low-yield, 2-3 tonnes to the hectare, all grown in the famous Heathcote Cambrian Soil. The vines run north/south on vertical shoot positioning trellis, allowing the new canes to be lifted to gain maximum exposure to the sun. Our vineyard is solely a dry land vineyard and relies on rain for water. Pruning and Picking are by hand.
Downing Estate Vineyard produces one hundred percent estate grown Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and a limited offering of Merlot. All our wines have established a reputation for intense fruit driven and wonderfully complex wines, achieving high ratings from renowned wine writer James Halliday.
Downing Estate has a wine club called the “Decanter Club” where members will receive all the latest release dates, wine news and our various specials throughout the year, plus be eligible to win a Krosno Decanter. To become a member simply log on to our website www.downingestate.com.au and follow the prompts.
All our wines are available at Downing Estate’s cellar door, member’s e-shop or via mail order.
Wine tastings are welcome at anytime by appointment; simply give us a call if you intend to visit Heathcote. Otherwise, we are open on all long weekends and public holidays with the exception of Christmas Day and Boxing Day.