Keep reading to discover more about the iconic structure and winery.
Overview:
History
The d’Arenberg wine story dates back to 1912 when the Australian wine company was founded. The McLaren Vale property was purchased by Joseph Osborn with the money he received from selling his prize-winning racehorses. When Joseph passed away, he left the property to his son, Frank, who planted vines and built the winery in 1927. By 1959 Frank’s son d’Arry launched the first d’Arenberg wine with the famous red stripe on the label. Since 1984 Chester Osborn has been the chief winemaker, taken over from his father, d’Arry Osborn. To this day Chester still uses the same wine making techniques that his grandfather did back when it all began in 1927.
Image by Dennis Bunnik
In 2003 Chester had a vision of creating a wine wonderland that represents how he views the winemaking process, like a puzzle. Although this vision took 15 years to bring to life, the Cube which opened its doors in 2017, is now one of the most recognised sites in South Australia.
Image by South Australia Tourism Commission
Where is it
d'Arenberg is located in McLaren Vale, a renowned wine region in South Australia. At the heart of the state’s food and wine scene, McLaren Vale is just a short 45-minute drive south from Adelaide. With more than 80 vineyards and culinary offerings in the region, you can sample world-class wines and dine at some of the best restaurants in the state.
Home to some of the oldest vines in Australia, McLaren Vale is an idyllic location for wine grape growing due to its Mediterranean climate, huge array of soil types and proximity to the ocean. The region is most famous for Shiraz, however, it also excels in Grenache and Cabernet.
Image by South Australia Tourism Commission
What to expect
Visiting the unusual and dramatic cube is a unique experience filled with fun, creativity, and of course award-winning wine. The experience begins even before you enter the doors, with many art exhibitions around the grounds. Upon entry you will be greeted into the Alternate Realities Museum, filled with plastic fruit and flowers. Attached to the walls are glass jugs filled with different scents resembling what you are likely to discover in wine.
Image by Dennis Bunnik
Image by Dennis Bunnik
Image by Dennis Bunnik
The quirky artwork extends throughout the whole building, including the bathrooms and stair well! The fourth floor tasting room is huge with stunning sweeping views across the winery and surrounding countryside.
It’s important to not rush your visit here and really take the time to experience the dramatic scenery and wine in all its glory. As a popular destination amongst tourists and locals alike, it is important to prebook tastings to avoid missing out.
Visit the d'Arenberg Cube with Bunnik Tours
The multi-function five storey building set amongst the vineyards is a sight to be seen (and you can spot it from a mile away). Take a trip to d’Arenberg and see for yourself what all the fuss is about. On Bunnik Tours' Discover South Australia small group tour, you can visit the quirky d’Arenberg Cube in McLaren Vale and enjoy a tasting while overlooking the vineyards. Book your SA tour online or get in touch with one of friendly Travel Specialists to learn more!
Image by Dennis Bunnik
As a family-owned South Australian based business we’re proud to partner with the South Australian Tourism Commission and showcase what our great state has to offer.
