Visit the Wineries in McLaren Vale

McLaren Vale is for wine. Whether you love the rich juiciness of a Shiraz, the cinnamony-fruitiness of a Grenache, or the robust, full-bodiness of a Mourvèdre, McLaren Vale’s wine varieties are diverse and delicious.

How many wineries are in McLaren Vale?

There are an estimated 160 vineyards and 74 cellar doors in the McLaren Vale region, each serving up some of the country’s most sought-after drops.

A home of iconic wineries

McLaren Vale has been one of Australia’s top wine regions for some time now, and so it’s only natural that there are a host of legendary vineyards producing their famous drops in this fertile region.

From the hallowed Coriole, founded way back in 1967 and renowned for its varietal sangiovese, to Hardys Tintara, one of the region’s oldest wine producers. Hardys Tintara is a true celebration of wine, with a cellar door and plenty of activities to help ease you into a state of carefree tipsiness. Try the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz, a delightful vintage blend.

Finally, d’Arenberg is as unique a winery as it is an iconic one. The stunning architectural makeup of the property is matched by the traditional wine production standards which, of course, result in superb drops. Wrap up the day in the futuristic d’Arenberg cube, enjoying snacks and a glass from the surrounding vineyard.

Some amazing newcomers, too

McLaren Vale is one of the country’s most fertile wine regions, so it is only natural that a new wave of producers would apply their trade there at some stage. There are a host of exciting new wineries doing things differently in McLaren Vale, including Aphelion, who originally produced three varieties of wine from a single tonne of granches berries and whose unique methods have become a trademark of the winery. And, of course, there is S.C. Pannell Wines, headed by the legendary Stephen Pannell, who makes fascinating blends based on Italian, Portuguese and Spanish grapes.

The best cellar doors

Maybe naming a few cellar doors as “the best” is a bit much, as each and every one has something incredible to offer. There is Oliver’s Taranga, where classical regional varieties and Meditteranean grape blends are served up in seasonal events. Then onto Alpha Box & Dice, a whimsical cellar door with a penchant for fine wine and tantalising grazing plates to match. McLaren Vale’s cellar doors are perfect for enjoying Australia’s best wine and food for that matter.

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