Woman walking toward the camera holding a bottle of wine and glasses. Tables of people in background

Couple sitting at an indoor table enjoying a wine tasting with the vineyard outside

Photo of a table setup with white and red wines in a row with a hand reaching to a plate of food

Group of young people sitting at a table outside drinking wine with a vineyard behind them

Woman taking a cherry off a cheese plate with a glass of wine in her other hand

Group of young girls sitting at an outdoor table drinking wine with vineyard and hills in back

Group of friends laughing at an outdoor table with trees in background

Couple looking out at a view of a vineyard and rolling hills with glass of red wine in hand

Group of friends standing outside at a vineyard playing giant jenga while drinking wine

Vinifera Wines

Highlights

Award-winning organic wines with unique Spanish varietals Relaxed cellar door with scenic vineyard and hill views Warm, family-run service offering wine flights and grazing platters

Overview

Vinifera is a family-owned, certified organic vineyard and cellar door in the heart of Mudgee wine country. Established by Tony and Debbie McKendry in 1994, the vineyard is home to some of the first Tempranillo vines planted in Australia, along with Chardonnay, Semillon and Cabernet Sauvignon. Inspired by their love for Spanish varietals, they later added Garnacha and Graciano, which now feature proudly in the range.

The cellar door opened in 2000, offering a relaxed and inviting space to taste through the wines and soak in views across the vineyard and hills beyond. Vinifera's minimal intervention approach reflects a belief that less is more, and in 2013 the vineyard became certified organic. Since 2020, the wines—made by celebrated local winemakers Jacob Stein and Lisa Bray—are also certified organic in the winery.

Today, the next generation continues the family legacy, with daughter Sam now leading the business. Guided by her parents' experience (and occasionally putting them to work), she brings fresh energy and a deep love for the land and community.

Visitors can enjoy award-winning wines, Spanish varietals, and a genuine connection to the people behind the label. Wine flights, grazing platters, and local collaborations make Vinifera a must-visit Mudgee experience.