Shoalhaven wineries of New South Wales, Australia

There are 16 vineyards and wineries in the Shoalhaven coast and wine production in this region has flourished over the last 15 years.

The wine trail of the Shoalhaven coast stretches for about 100km and a leisure drive will take visitors along rolling hills and green valleys on one side and some of the most pristine coastline and beaches on the other. This area has outstanding climatic condition where varietals include Chardonnay, Semillon, Verdelho, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. Chambourcin is recognised as the "wine of the region" with most vineyards producing excellent quality of this varietal.

Tasting wine in the Shoalhaven coast will invariably involve a visit to Berry, a wonderful and quaint little town of less than 2,000 people. Berry is famous for its cafes and restaurants which uses the freshest of local produce to delight visitors with its array of culinary experiences.

The Shoalhaven coast is also home to the coastal towns of Gerringong and Gerroa, arguably two of the south coast's most beautiful and scenic towns where visitors can stroll along Werri beach and Seven Mile beach.

Another attraction in the region is Rick Stein's award-winning restaurant, Rick Stein at Bannisters, further down the coast in Mollymook.

Two Figs is a boutique winery 12km from Berry and is perched on top of one of Mount Coolangatta's foothills. The vineyard was planted in 2003 and varietals include Chardonnay, Rose, Verdelho, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chambourcin.

Visitors can sample wines with an assortment of cheese platters whilst enjoying breath-taking views of the beautiful Shoalhaven river and beyond.

The Rose is light and dry in style while Sunday Afternoon's Verdelho Chardonnay blend is on the sweet side.

The Mountain Ridge vineyard was planted by Barry and Monique Starkey and their five sons. It is located on a ridge of Coolangatta Mountain and has beautiful views of Berry, Saddleback and Cambewarra Mountains.

Barry produces Chardonnay, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz and his southcoast classic Chambourcin. The vineyard is spread over 75 acres of farm land which produces beef, macadamia nuts, lime, fresh vegetables, free range eggs, lucerne and pasture hay.

He also makes a variety of liqueurs which include macadamia, strawberry, peach, orange and watermelon.

A beer and ale brewery is also on the cards and will complement his wine making business.

Established in 1822, the Coolangatta Estate winery is one of the oldest vineyards in the Shoalhaven coast and is the site of the first European settlers on the south coast of New South Wales.

The cellar door is open daily and the winery includes Alexanders, a local produce restaurant, 9-hole golf course and guest house.

Varietals include an aged semillon, verdelho, chardonnay and chambourcin. The winery also boasts the rare tannat - bold and flavoursome with a strong tannic finish which would reward careful cellaring of up to an estimated 7 years.

The wines of Coolangatta Estate have also won numerous awards over the years.