Yass Valley Wines is situated at Murrumbateman, 20 km  from Yass and 40 km from Canberra, just 3 km off the Barton Highway which is the main western road from Canberra.

The property was purchased in 1991 by Anne Hillier and Mick Withers with the intention of growing grapes and making wine.  The Canberra region was chosen for its cool climate, a factor which is important in the production of high quality wine grapes.

The property had a small area of vines at the time of purchase (planted 1978) but these were much neglected and producing poorly.  This existing area was renovated and brought back into production and over the next two years further planting was carried out.  In 2000 the Merlot and Riesling rows were extended to increase the amount of these varieties.  At present there are just over 3 hectares of vines.

The varieties in the vineyard are Traminer, Chardonnay, Riesling, Semillon, Barbera, Shiraz, Merlot  and Verdelho.

Anne was a school counsellor (BA Macquarie Uni) and Mick is a chemist (ASTC, BSc, MSc) who worked at the School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales.  Both have studied at Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga.  Anne took a diploma (now a degree) in Viticulture whilst Mick studied Wine Science.  They have also studied numerous other courses related to the Hospitality and Tourism industries.

"Our philosophy of winemaking is to obtain the best grapes possible, process them as quickly as possible after picking and to manipulate the wine as little as possible, consistent with maintaining quality.  This means that chemicals are kept to a minimum, fining agents are used sparingly and red wines are only moderately oaked.  Wines are made and bottled on the premises to ensure control at all times."

A new Cellar Door complex (now 8 years old) accommodates larger numbers for wine tasting and has an attached Cafe area.  It is all wheelchair accessible.  (We request that ladies with stiletto heels remove them as the Tasmanian Oak timber floors are damaged by them.  Thank you.)

The Cellar Door is open Wednesdays to Sundays from 10 to 5.   A fee of $5 per person applies to tastings for groups larger than 6. 

The Cafe is beautifully situated overlooking both the Yass Valley Wines vineyard and the pastures and vines of their neighbours in the valley.  From the northfacing verandah or the full length windows in the Cafe, guests enjoy both country hospitality and the delightful country views.

Using local NSW produce to best effect, Crisps Lane Cafe offers quality food at very reasonable prices.   Special diets are also catered for.

The Cafe is open Wednesdays to Sundays from 11am until 4pm.

The vineyard and cafe are at 5 Crisps Lane, Murrumbateman. 2582.