Rutherglen

Overview

Rutherglen is the agricultural and viticultural centre of Australia's oldest wine growing region situated near the banks of the mighty Murray River.

The Rutherglen wine region is the premier fortified wine producing area in Australia, with winemaker's passing on their knowledge through up to five generations. The growth of the area has seen Rutherglen become the home of many boutique wineries and the distinctive beauty of the region makes it a premiere filming location.

History

The land around Rutherglen was once occupied by the Whroo people.

European incursions began when the explorers Hume and Hovell crossed the Murray in November 1824. Charles Sturt explored the Murray River area in 1829-30 and the first squatter took up land on the river in 1835 at the future site of Albury. By 1845 the whole area was taken up by squatters' runs.

Gold fever hit Australia in 1851 and local pastoralists soon found a ready market for their meat at the Beechworth goldfields. In November 1858 Indigo had eight hotels and 41 stores. By early 1859, 13 000 people were thought to be in the district.

Places of interest

Winery ruins
Gold Battery
Rose of Sharon Museum
Great Northern Mile
Olive Hills
Mount Ophir Estate
The Muscat Trail
The various wineries throughout Rutherglen

Accommodation

To book accommodation please contact the friendly staff at the Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre on:

Telphone toll free: 1800 622 871
Telephone international: +61 (2) 6032 9166
Email: info@rutherglen.vic.com
Web: http://www.rutherglenvic.com
Adddress: 13-27 Drummond Street, Rutherglen VIC 3685.

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