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Seppelt's Champagne Cellars

Location Moyston Road, GREAT WESTERN VIC 3377 - Property No B1251 File Number B1251 Level State

[1/1] B1251 Seppelt's Champagne

Statement of Significance

The Champagne Cellars at the Great Western Vineyards, a network of underground barrel vaulted "drives" cut from decomposed granite, were commenced between 1868-70 by Joseph Best, English-born founder of the vineyards. Four drivers were constructed by 1878 and subsequently extended by local miners under direction of Hans Irvine, a celebrated businessman who acquired the vineyard in 1888.

The Great Western Vineyards, founded by pioneer vigneron Joseph Best, were developed by Hans Irvine into Victoria's premier champagne producing establishment. The champagne cellars, providing some 6 kilometres of rack space in 1960, are unique in Victoria with an atmosphere compatible with the mystique of champagne production. The tunnels have been opened by various distinguished personalities including Lord Hopetoun, Dame Nellie Melba and various Governors of Victoria.

The Great Western Vineyard underground cellars or "drives" have been progressively extended by Hans Irvine (1888-1918) and by the House of Seppelt since that time.
Classified 12/03/1964
Revised: Classified State 3/8/98