Established in 1838 Yering Station boasts a rich history. It’s one of the Yarra Valley’s oldest wineries a testament to the region’s enduring winemaking tradition. Picture this: the Ryrie brothers arriving in 1838. They brought 250 head of cattle from New South Wales. They established a pastoral run naming it after the Indigenous word for the area. Their initial venture included planting vines. Their informal wine Chateau Yering was a local curiosity. The brothers’ winemaking efforts weren’t merely a hobby. They were a significant step in establishing Yering’s reputation. This was long before the region’s modern winemaking revival of the 1960s.
By the 1850s Swiss families the de Castellas and de Purys acquired the property. They added Yeringberg and St Hubert’s wineries to the already existing Chateau Yering. Their contributions cemented Yering’s position as a significant wine producer. Their wines won awards internationally even achieving a Grand Prix at the 1889 Paris Exhibition. This was a remarkable feat for a winery outside the Northern Hemisphere. A true testament to Yering’s quality.
The late 19th century brought economic challenges. The 1890s depression impacted the local wine industry. Dairying became more profitable than wine. Paul de Castella sold Chateau Yering in 1896. The region’s focus shifted. Yet the legacy of Yering’s early winemaking remained. Its enduring presence in the Yarra Valley is proof.
Today Chateau Yering’s original 1854 mansion stands. It’s been updated and now operates as a hotel and restaurant. Its historical significance remains undeniable. A beautiful example of architecture. Built from local handmade bricks marble and cedar from New South Wales. Yering Station continues to thrive. It hosts the annual Yering Station Sculpture Awards. Finalists’ works are displayed around the station and Chateau Yering’s gardens. The location remains central to the Yarra Valley’s wine industry. It’s a testament to the area’s perseverance and enduring appeal. Yering Station a place where history and modern success intertwine. A place where you can taste the past and enjoy the present. A must-visit for any wine lover exploring the Yarra Valley.