Top Wine Experiences in South Australia

Known as the wine capital of Australia, South Australia is home to 18 wine regions, each unique and full of flavour. Here’s our list of the best wine experiences in South Australia which you can discover for yourself with Bunnik Tours.

Overview:

• Penfolds Magill Estate
• McLaren Vale
• Clare Valley
• Barossa

Penfolds Magill Estate

Nestled amongst the foothills of the Mount Lofty Ranges, Penfolds Magill Estate was founded back in 1844 by Dr Christopher and Mary Penfold. The Magill Estate is referred to as the winery’s ‘spiritual home’ given it was where the very first vine cuttings were planted. It is also one of the few vineyards in the world to be located so close to the CBD.

Surrounded by a lush landscape, this historic site produces 100% shiraz, reserving a select portion to be submitted to Penfold’s flagship, Grange. Named a South Australian heritage icon upon its 50th birthday in 2001, a tasting of this famous vintage wine is a must on any visit to the Estate.

McLaren Vale

Recognised as the birthplace of wine in South Australia, McLaren Vale is home to over 7,000 hectares of vines. Although mainly known for Shiraz, this southern region also produces exceptional Cabernet and Grenache, amongst many others, particularly of the Mediterranean variety. If all these delicious wines are making you hungry, you’re in luck with over a third of the cellar doors offering an array of scrumptious local produce to sample. From gin tastings at Never Never Distilling Co., to scenically stunning views over the valley from Kay Brothers brand new deck and vegan friendly winemaking of Alpha Box and Dice, there is something for everyone.

A visit to McLaren Vale is not complete without a stop at the quirky d’Arenberg Cube. Depicting the puzzles and intricacies of the winemaking process, this unusually shaped building includes an Alternate Realities Museum, exhibits many art installations, and of course offers world-famous wine.

Clare Valley

Time for some white wine, as you journey through the famous Riesling region of Clare Valley. This charismatic town is home to over 30 cellar doors, from stone cottages to farm sheds and state-of-the-art structures. The perfect location to take a slow drive or hop on a bike, spotting the local flora and fauna and stopping at various cellar doors along the beautiful Riesling Trail. With all cellar doors less than 40km apart, you’ll be able to squeeze in quite a few, or find your favourite, sit back and relax taking in the rolling hills of this scenic Valley.

Barossa

Home to some of the world’s oldest vines, over 150 wineries and passionate and welcoming locals, the Barossa region is a world unto itself. Comprising of numerous towns including Nuriootpa, Tanunda, Rowland Flat, and Lyndoch, this wine region dates back some 7 generations, encompassing some 175 years. A gorgeous blend of spectacular landscapes, a rich heritage and a thriving food culture, the Barossa offers visitors so much in addition to their award-winning wines.

Travelling through the picturesque Eden Valley you will uncover the historic Yalumba winery, family owned since its first planting in 1849. Enjoy a guided tour as you stroll the lush grounds viewing the iconic marble and sandstone Clocktower, then sit under the idyllic outdoor umbrellas or inside the wine room sipping their impressive wines.

Yalumba Clocktower by South Australian Tourism Commission

Driving down a palm-tree lined road, a truly unique experience will await you at Seppeltsfield. The expansive grounds are the site of charming, heritage buildings housing local vendors including the craft and design studio JamFactory and the handmade skin and body care business Vasse Virgin. The Centennial Cellar is a highlight at Seppeltsfield, home to an unbroken lineage of each vintage of tawny from the current year all the way back to the year 1878. Touring the Cellar and tasting tawny directly from the barrel is a must!

So what are you waiting for? Get in your car or jump on a plane and make your way to SA, the great state overflowing with delicious local produce, stunning landscapes and simply incredible wines!

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.