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.”
