The Gurdies

The only winery in the southwest Gippsland region, established on the slopes of The Gurdies hills overlooking Westernport Bay and French Island. Plantings of the 3.5ha vineyard commenced in 1981, but no fruit was harvested until '91, owing to bird attack. A winery has been completed, and it is intended to increase the vineyards to 8ha and ultimately build a restaurant. -JAMES HALLIDAY