The charming town of McLaren Vale beckons wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike with its fairy-tale landscapes and world-renowned wineries. McLaren Vale’s wineries have not only dedicated their time to producing high-quality vintages but also to implementing sustainable practices to protect the environment.
Whether exploring the Fleurieu Peninsula’s rolling hills or sipping a glass of Shiraz at one of the many sustainable cellar doors, McLaren Vale offers a unique and unforgettable experience—some would say it’s whimsical.
d’Arenburg
You might have seen photos of the gigantic Rubix cube-looking building hidden in the vines. This is d’Arenburg, a winery unlike any other. Its iconic cube-shaped tasting room and quirky wine labels have become a must-visit destination. But it’s not just the aesthetics that make d’Arenberg unique; their bold and eccentric wines, including The Dead Arm Shiraz and The Ironstone Pressings, have garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following. Blend your own wine to take home or explore the fun house-style interior.
Down the Rabbit Hole Cellar Door and Restaurant
Another whimsical and enchanting destination in McLaren Vale is Down the Rabbit Hole Cellar Door and Restaurant. The winery’s Alice in Wonderland-inspired decor and playful wine labels set the tone for a fun and lighthearted tasting experience. The food at the restaurant is just as exceptional as the wine, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
Wirra Wirra
Famous for its flagship RSW Shiraz, and Church Block Cabernet Sauvignon Wirra Wirra has a rich history and is known for its award-winning wines. Stroll through the endless rows of vines and beautiful manicured gardens and peek inside the historic ironstone cellars dating back to 1894. Visitors can enjoy a range of wine tastings, tours, and even picnics on the lawns. With a commitment to sustainability and quality winemaking, Wirra Wirra is a true gem of McLaren Vale.
Maxwell Wines
Maxwell Wines is a family-owned winery that has been crafting exceptional wines in McLaren Vale for over 40 years. Their range of wines includes the popular Silver Hammer Shiraz, Ellen Street Shiraz, and Little Demon Shiraz. The winery boasts a stunning cellar door with panoramic views of the vineyards and a range of unique experiences, including a chocolate and wine pairing. Their commitment to sustainability and organic farming practices makes it the perfect choice for anyone who values quality and environmental responsibility.
Chalk Hill Wines
With a focus on small-batch, handcrafted wines, Chalk Hill has won numerous awards for its premium Shiraz and Grenache blends. The winery also boasts an impressive cellar door and restaurant, where you can indulge in delicious food and wine pairings. Ask to tour the ground to see how its sustainable viticulture practices and minimal intervention winemaking methods set them apart as a leading producer of premium McLaren Vale wines.
Gemtree Wines
Gemtree Wines is a certified organic and biodynamic winery producing unique and complex wines, including the Bloodstone Shiraz and Moonstone Savagnin. The winery’s cellar door offers a range of wine tastings and tours and a picturesque outdoor seating area where visitors can relax and take in the peaceful valley scenes.
Alpha Box and Dice
Alpha Box and Dice is another winery focused on creating unique and experimental wines. The winery’s philosophy is centred around diversity, with a range of unusual grape varieties and winemaking techniques on offer. The cellar door is a feast for the senses, with a quirky and eclectic interior design that reflects the winery’s innovative spirit. Visitors can enjoy a range of tastings and experiences, including the chance to create their own blend of wine.
Eyefood-Scholz Vinall
Dowie Doole Cellar Door
Nestled in the region’s heart, this winery offers a range of exceptional wines crafted from the finest grapes grown on their estate. Enjoy a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, complete with stunning views of the vineyards and a tasting flight of the vineyard’s top drops. The cellar door also hosts a range of events and experiences, including guided tastings, vineyard tours, and food and wine pairings.
Related: The Best Places to Sip, Snack and Stay in McLaren Vale, According to a Local
Related: The Barossa Valley Has Endless Wineries, But These Are the Ones You Can’t Skip
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