Danny Blackman of Adelaide’s Top Food & Wine Tours, who specialises in premium wine tours to McLaren Vale, customarily starts his day trips at d’Arenberg. “It’s a great place to take our clients first, it’s iconic McLaren Vale, the wines are sensational and they have over 40 on tasting. The views are stunning and the staff are great. A “hidden gem” is Fox Creek. “It’s in a beautiful location with great wines,” he says. “Lloyd Brothers is another one – a spectacular place.” Danny times his visits to historical Kay Brothers Amery in the late-afternoon. “The light at that time of the day is just magnificent, the same goes for Paxton Wines and Chapel Hill – the light is faultless. Danny’s visitors also love Primo Estate, Coriole, Leconfield and Serafino to name a few. What’s the one thing that makes clients happy? “Wine!” says Danny. “McLaren Vale is famous for its Shiraz as well as Grenache. These days there are many more. There is beautiful scenery, great food and people, but wine brings them all together.” One last tip: “Make sure you look at the lights over McLaren Vale,” says Danny. “They twinkle so brightly – they’re stunning.” 

Diversity in Style.

McLaren Vale is a leader in so many facets of winemaking including sustainability, wastewater management, organic and biodynamic viticulture and understanding geology. It is also a pioneer with alternative wine varieties, making impressive examples of Barbera, Fiano, Vermentino, Tempranillo, Nero d’Avola, Saperavi and Montepulciano. And look out for Kangarilla Road’s Savagnin and Hither & Yon’s Tanat.

McLaren Vale’s wave of wineries and accommodation showcases some of the country’s best contemporary architecture and design. When combined with innovative dishes inspired by local produce, national and international heads are turning.

The world class McLaren Vale Wine Region in South Australia offers a range of wine tasting experiences.  Here’s some of our favourites and must do’s and please keep in mind many of these experiences are currently on hold or may look slightly different due to current COVID-19 safe practices.

Garden Grown and Farm Foraged. Treat your taste buds across the McLaren Vale Wine Region at restaurants, cafes or cellar doors. Locally grown and farm-fresh produce define the region’s passionate and internationally acclaimed food community.

With an abundance of restaurants, cafes and cellar doors comparable to the worlds best wine regions, the McLaren Vale Wine Region continues to impress. From 3D food printing at d’Arenberg Cube as featured on MasterChef, to progressive picnics, it is all waiting to be experienced!