Explore McLaren Vale

This region has 19th century ironstone buildings amidst the gum trees, rolling hills dipping to a sapphire sea, and more than 80 wineries to discover.

Nestled between the Mounty Lofty Ranges and the rugged coastline of the Fleurieu Peninsula, just 45 minutes from Adelaide, McLaren Vale is the birthplace of wine in South Australia. It is best known for its award-winning velvety shiraz, some of which is produced from century-old vines. Thomas Hardy – widely regarded as the ‘father of wine’ in South Australia – first planted vines here in the 1850s, laying the foundations for one of Australia’s greatest wine making dynasties.

While the region is rich in history, its winemakers and growers are renowned for innovation and experimentation, and the Vale is home to some of the most sustainable, environmentally conscious wineries in Australia. Big names such as Gemtree and Wirra Wirra lead the way with biodynamic and organic viticulture, water management and solar power.

Thanks to the warm Mediterranean climate, McLaren Vale shiraz tends to be a little softer than its bolder cousins of the neighbouring Barossa Valley, with a greater fruit intensity. Packed with dark cherry and plum flavours, Taylors Masterstoke Shiraz is a fine example, and pairs perfectly with a good cut of steak. McLaren Vale grenache and cabernet sauvignon are also notable, while the mild climate, rich soil and geological diversity means that Italian and Spanish varietals like tempranillo, vermentino, barbera, sangiovese, and nebbiolo also thrive. Try Freebird McLaren Vale Nebbiolo. Plush and full flavoured, it has delightful notes of rose, thyme and violet and makes an ideal accompaniment to a hearty spaghetti bolognaise with a generous grating of parmigiano reggiano.

As well as new varietals and techniques, the Italian immigrants who arrived in the Vale from post war Europe brought an enduring passion for food and hospitality, and the culinary scene here is an exciting one. Along with a Shiraz Trail that takes in some of the top McLaren Vale wineries, there is an Olive Trail to explore, and fabulous local produce to discover at the weekly Willunga Farmers market. Foodies (and art lovers) will also find much to indulge in when visiting the Vale’s enchanting historic villages like Old Noarlunga, Willunga and McLaren Vale. 

Beautiful at any time of the year, summers here are decidedly celebratory, with food and wine events taking place at wineries most weekends, culminating in ‘Summer in the Vines’ an annual 10-day festival in late January. Looking to cool off after a day of wine tasting? The beautiful wide sandy beaches of the Fleurieu Peninsula are just minutes from the vineyards and provide idyllic swimming and snorkelling conditions.