Bendooley Estate had been on my bucket list for a while so I was excited to finally visit a couple of weeks ago. Let me say it is now my favourite place in the Southern Highlands to choose for a special event, lunch or just a quick catch up for a coffee.
Bendooley Estate is a magnificent 200-acre property boasting established cool-climate gardens and the iconic Berkelouw Book Barn. You will find it at 3020 Old Hume Hwy, Berrima, located between Sydney and Canberra in the beautiful Southern Highlands.
If you are looking for somewhere for a beautiful wedding, a special private event, or to indulge in a delightful dining experience with friends, you will find it all at Bendooley Estate. Be sure to book early for your event, as it is a very popular venue. Weddings of course are spectacular here. There is also a beautiful cottage as on-site accommodation with vineyard and valley views.
The book barn is full of new, second hand, rare and antiquarian book titles. You will love searching through the enormous collection on offer.
You can dine for lunch every day in the main restaurant, which is situated within the Book Barn.
Alternatively visit the Cellar Door for exquisite day-time dining and light meals centred around a magnificent and unique circular stone fireplace.
The Cellar Door is welcoming and is furnished with comfortable couches and intimate seating areas.
An alcove area accommodates large groups to dine at a long table.
To the side and front of the Cellar Door you will discover a picturesque courtyard to enjoy alfresco dining.
I was treated to a wine tasting and a fabulous coffee in the Cellar Door. Nothing was too much trouble.The wine tasting bar area features a specially commissioned dramatic artwork by John Olsen.
I tasted the Pinot Gris 2015 – Hand picked from their vineyard the 2015 Pinot Gris has subtle aromas of green pears and honey with lashes of tropical fruit followed by a soft citrus finish with a touch of spice.
MV Cuvee – The first sparkling under the Bendooley Label is fruit driven both on the palate and aroma. A soft and fruity wine which still finishes with a crisp natural finish. It’s an elegant bubbly worthy of raising your glass.
Bendooley Estate is the perfect space for beautiful weddings and private events with magnificent cool-climate gardens and a lakeside pavilion for weddings and events. You will be spoilt with rural vistas and views of the vineyards.
Open every day except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and Good Friday.
