Touring South Australia's Wine Country

Australia is world-renowned for its exceptional wine production. Most of the wine hails from the vines of South Australia from the Adelaide Hills to the low valley regions on the periphery of the namesake city – the largest in the territory. Adelaide and the surrounding valleys are the perfect choice of Australian adventure for those with a thirst for excellent wine and gastronomy. 

Adelaide: South Australia’s wine capital 

The city of Adelaide is often passed over in favor of Melbourne and Sydney. However, Adelaide is the undisputed wine capital of Australia. It peeks out from the Mount Lofty Ranges and enjoys a seaside setting on the shores of the St Vincent Gulf. The Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley, and McLaren Vale are the closest wine regions although Riverland, Clare Valley, and Eden Valley are perfectly attainable on a day trip.  

Head just 20 minutes east of the city to the Adelaide Hills for cool climate Sauvignon Blanc and sparkling wines. Start with a wine flight and vineyard tour at Shaw + Smith where you’ll try new release wines. Among these, you can expect the signature white plus a Pinot Noir or Shiraz. The estate also hosts regular masterclasses, twilight barbecues, and exclusive launches for members and non-members. 

The Barossa Valley is one of the world’s most famous wine regions for Shiraz, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon. With over 150 wineries to tick off, Château Tanunda is the perfect place to commence your wine trail. Tastings are available daily but you shouldn’t miss the Croquet and Wine experience. The region is also known for its German heritage as demonstrated through stone-built villages and Lutheran churches.

McLaren Vale was the pioneer wine region in South Australia and has since garnered a reputation for sustainable viticulture. These warm-climate vineyards yield juicy reds of all varieties. Hardys Wines hosts Tasting in the Dark: A Sensory Experience where you’ll don a blindfold to gain a deeper understanding of the nuances and your palate.

Wine bars in Adelaide

Even on a short itinerary, you can get acquainted with the produce of Southern Australia's Wine Country.

Housed in a former dry cleaner, Leigh Street Wine Room is now one of the hippest destinations for sampling regional wines. The sleek marble countertop adds a Parisian vibe while vintage bottles and bespoke paintings set the tone. The menu lists several hundred premium wines with the option to turn your order into a pairing.

Clever Little Tailor is a charming watering hole serving fine wine, craft beer, and sophisticated cocktails made from superior liquor. Wine is sourced from the wineries of South Australia but there is a selection of European imports too as well as continental small plates. 

Last but not least, Wined Bar at the National Wine Centre of Australia stocks wines produced across the country. The tasting room maintains 120 wines at any given time and these rotate regularly. Masterclasses hosted by sommeliers take place in the cellar while culinary experiences are available in the restaurant. 

Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations when you are ready to book your trip to  South Australia’s Wine Country.