What are the best wines in the area?

Adelaide is famous for its wine, with South Australia overflowing with iconic wine drops and holding multiple awards throughout its time.

With an abundant range in reds, pinks, whites, and sparkling, but where do you start? Sipping on the best of the best during your stay can turn your decent holiday into an absolutely brilliant one.

• Shiraz

  Seeing as Barossa Valley is the king of Shiraz, it’s hard to narrow this one down. With so many wineries killing it with this red drop. However, Penfolds makes the cut as the very best, with their grange shiraz a mouth-watering glass to go with your dinner. The wine makes have been developing this drop since 1931, now well past its 50th birthday. It 2008 Grange vintage drop even scored a perfect score of 100 points, which is extremely hard to do in a slightly snobbish wine world. The birthplace of this Shiraz is only a 15-minute drive from the city centre of Adelaide, so why not learn the history and winemaking process in person while you try out this red?

• Cabernet Sauvignon

  Nestled within Clare Valley is Taylor’s Wines exceptional visionary Cabernet Sauvignon. They have focuses on their Cabernet Sauvignon drop for years, finally developing the utmost refinement that truly embodied the original Taylor’s vision. It is not just one of the best in Australia but stands tall amongst the best reds in the world. Visit here for a day trip away from Adelaide, even staying the night to enjoy the restaurants scattering the area.

• Riesling

  Clare Valley is famously known as one of the prettiest wine valleys of Australia, but that’s not all that pretty, with Jim Barry’s Florida Reisling being undoubtedly beautiful. This full-bodied drop is both delicate and powerful, with aromas of rose water, citrus blossom, pear and lime. The family-owned winery welcomes guests with open arms. Staff are always happy to explain each taste and the process that creates this stunning glass of wine.

• Chardonnay

  Wolf Blass’ White Label is an elegant drop with pristine fruit and acidity. Promising a complex palate which matches the area’s impeccable balance and length. Nestled in Barossa Valley, you can taste this white while you learn more about the fascinating history and winemaking process. The story of how the winery started is captivating. It starts with the original Wolf ran away from school, joined a winemaking apprenticeship, and became the youngest person to ever graduate from wine science. Once you start feeling light-headed from all the wine, visit the winery’s café to enjoy a sweet treat before heading back to Adelaide.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.