The Mudgee wine region has some of the oldest vines in Australia and grows predominantly Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay. Mudgee is located in the Central West of New South Wales and is 260 kilometres north west of Sydney. Mudgee sits on the edge of what is known as the Sydney Basin and has a series of hills, valleys, and microclimates, ideal for viticulture. The viticultural history of Mudgee goes back to 1858 when the some of the first vineyards in Australia were planted by German immigrants. In addition, the vineyards are planted between 430 metres and 1100 metres above sea level,  where strong sunlight produces grapes with intense flavours. Long cool nights counteract the warm days and preserve the acidity in the grapes and the resulting structure in the wines.