The Southern Highlands form part of the Great Dividing Range in NSW, with vineyards found at altitudes of 700 metres. It is a cool, moist continental climate with notable humidity that can be problematic in warm vintages. Soils in the region are predominantly basalt and shale. The first modern wineries were established in the 1980s and were planted primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay and more recently Sauvignon Blanc.