One of Orange’s premier wine producers is none other than Tom Ward’s Swinging Bridge Vineyard. Situated high on the slopes of Orange, the family-owned estate is at the forefront of new premium, cool-climate winemaking.

Winemaker Tom and his team are known for their range of elegantly handcrafted wines that not only reflect the area but the team’s passion for the craft of winemaking.

Providing what we believe to be one of the best views of Mount Canobolas, a wine tasting experience at Swinging Bridge is nothing short of spectacular. Sit down and sample their single vineyard series, their hashtag series, winemaking series, and bridge series as well as their experimental wine series.

Tom’s winemaking philosophy is to make premium-quality wines that speak directly of their regional provenance.

“In a high-elevation, cool-climate region like Orange, the wines need to have brightness and no forced acidity. For a cool-climate Chardonnay, for example, we need the oak to support; not dominate. Most of our best input goes into creating wines with texture and long life.”

The cellar door sits just five minutes from the city centre, offering both indoor and outdoor sittings; all of which take in the beautiful views toward Mount Canobolas. Be greeted by the highly professional and welcoming staff; there to guide you through the group’s wines.

Choose from one of four wine tasting packages. Starting with the Standard, guests can taste a range of five cool climate wines giving you a quick introduction to the Swinging Bridge wines. Step up to the premium tasting and taste a selection of eight wines handcrafted and exclusively chosen by Tom to highlight the depth and style of their wines.

“I’m prepared to experiment and try different things. It’s about having fun and showing off our wild side. It’s about pushing the boundaries to evolve styles and create new wines that people enjoy.”

Moving up another notch, book a spot for a Platinum tasting experience complimented and enhanced with a selection of food items prepared in-house by chef Simon Kalis. Experience ten wines personally selected by Tom from both Winemaker and Hashtag series plus back vintage and reserve collection. For the all-out experience, enjoy your very own private picnic amongst the vines on the Swinging Bridge property.

If you consider yourself a wine connoisseur and you’re eager to try exciting wines, a visit to Swinging Bridge Vineyard is a must-do on your trip out to Orange.