Life
Selector Weekenders Guide to Adelaide Hills
A leisurely drive doesnt get more evocative than the vast, winding wonderland that is the Adelaide Hills.
There's something magical about South Australia's Adelaide Hills. The birds eye view from an aeroplane as it approaches from the east across the Mount Lofty Ranges reveals a patchwork of green. Vineyards, orchards, vegetable patches, forests and dense scrubland dot the voluptuous landscape, just a 20-to-30-minute drive from Adelaides CBD.
For all its accessibility, the region itself is vast. It can take an hour to drive from top to tail. The Geographical Indication (GI) for Adelaide Hills was created in 1998 and stretches around 75 kilometres, spanning sub-regions (Lenswood and Piccadilly Valley) and mesoclimates and microclimates from Mount Pleasant in the north to Macclesfield and Kuitpo in the south. Add altitude ranging from 230-650 metres and this is a world class cool climate wine region with everything going for it, with classic and new world Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, stunning Pinot Noir, and sparkling putting the region on the global map.
Then there are varietals from faraway lands, the likes of which are being championed by the likes of Longview Vineyard at Macclesfield, La Prova's Sam Scott, Vella Wines, XO Wine Co, Unico Zelo, Paracombe, Geoff Hardy, and Amadio. Gamay, Barbera, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto Blaufrankisch, Vermentino, Albarino, Arneis, and Grüner Veltliner are all thriving here. Producers are an approachable bunch. Chat to them as they pour their creations. Much like the patchwork of biodiversity for which the region is known, the motley crew of characters is diverse. From traditionalists to new wave winemakers, each one was drawn to the Hills for different reasons and their back stories make for a thrilling adventure.
TOP WINERIES AND CELLAR DOORS TO VISIT IN ADELAIDE HILLS
Beautiful views across the vine rows await at The Lane Vineyard (Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission).
Hotfoot straight to Piccadilly's Tapanappa where the winery's driveway passes the famous Tiers Vineyard, planted by industry pioneer Brian Croser. When Croser founded Petaluma in 1976, he pinpointed particular potential for top notch Chardonnay. The likes of Stephen George, Geoff Weaver, Tim Knappstein, Michael Hill Smith MW and Martin Shaw, and Stephen and Prue Henschke also paved the way for the region and vineyards we love today.
Croser and Petaluma eventually parted ways, but the hilltop cellar door is a wonderful place to taste the Petaluma Tiers Chardonnay. The Woodside cellar door is also home to a raft of things to do, including the newly launched Horse Trail Ride and Tasting Experience led by Hallmark Farm co-owner and Olympian Megan Jones.
For insight into an exciting Hills future, head to Nairne's family-owned Howard Vineyard where charismatic cellar door manager Deb Light and the team lead tastings in a converted stone barn setting. If you're lucky, you'll encounter head winemaker and general manager Tom Northcott, whose 2024 Howard Vineyard Cabernet Franc Rosé is a winner and goes particularly well with on-site restaurant Clover + Stone's Korean inspired dishes. In recent years, bushfires stole vines, homes, livelihoods, and even lives across the Hills. The sense of community here is strong, and in such times proved the buoy that kept many an outlook and spirit strong.
For an example of extraordinary community spirit and resilience, visit the likes of Vinteloper's sleek new Lobethal cellar door and tasting room, Simon Tolley Wines' hilltop cellar door and premium accommodation (try the Pinot Noir he's a master of the art), and vigneron James Tilbrook's impressive eco-cellar door, all of which rose from the charred landscape following the devastation of 2019's Cudlee Creek fire.
SAMPLE SOME OF THE BEST ADELAIDE HILLS SPARKLING
The Adelaide Hills region is increasingly synonymous with stunning sparkling wine, from traditional method sparkling to progressive styles and trends. Terre ˆ Terre Wines (DAOSA), Greenhill Wines, Lobethal Road, Piccadilly Vineyards, and Sidewood Estate continue to ensure the bar remains high.
At Deviation Road, Kate and Hamish Laurie make some of the best sparkling wine in the nation. Since establishing vineyards, converting a 1940s dairy into a winery, and building a cellar door, they forged a name for themselves in handcrafted bubbles, best tasted over an all-day (seven days a week) grazing menu.
As value goes, Wicks Estate is arguably as good as it gets. Brothers and co-founders Tim and Simon Wicks don't have a cellar door (yet) but the Estate Vintage Sparkling and Pamela Vintage Sparkling (named after their late mother) can be spotted at wine merchants and restaurants across the Hills (and the nation - they're particularly popular on Australia's east coast). For an unforgettable 'by appointment' tasting, Honey Moon Vineyard happens in the Echunga home of Hylton McLean and wife Jane Bromley. They make top notch méthode traditionnelle sparkling and named their vineyard and wine brand after the full moon or, more specifically, the way it resembles a large dollop of honey in the night sky. Each bottle is disgorged on demand, hand-labelled and scrawled with the customer's name.
For an Argentinian touch, Mordrelle Wines has an extensive collection of museum blanc de blancs to try at the dairy cow-inhabited Hahndorf property. The artwork on the Mordrelle Wines labels was painted by the late Jose Luis Moran, winemaker Martin Moran's father. Jose was a prolific watercolour and oil painter back in Martin's homeland of Argentina, and his evocative paintings adorn their range. Book far enough ahead and Moran will cook you a traditional Argentinian barbeque with your wine tasting experience.
BEST FOOD IN ADELAIDE HILLS?
Seasonal South Australian produce takes centre stage at Ondeen (Credit: Ondeen).
Hills exploration is hungry work. Top of the hit list has to be new restaurant Ondeen, located in an iconic 1850s homestead. The thoughtful, moving feast by culinary director Kane Pollard and head chef Julian Peek draws inspiration from the land surrounding the Verdun property (Pollard is a deft hand at foraging and is passionate about sustainability). It's also home to a wine room devoted to four small batch Hills producers who don't have cellar doors; Silver Lining Wine, Turon Wines, Jericho Wines, and Artis. Hit a few golf balls toward the hole on the property's lake when you're done.
As winery restaurants go, there's no shortage of stellar options. The cream of the crop pair kitchen prowess with wine tastings and experiences. Case in point, Lenswood's Mount Lofty Ranges Vineyard, where newly appointed UK-born head chef Matt Rodgers sources produce on-site and from small nearby farms. The view from 550 metres above sea level is a special one, especially from the restaurant and cellar door deck. To delve even deeper, book an immersive customised experience that sees chef Rodgers accompany you through the steep sloping land to a special vineyard-framed location for snacks and a tasting.
The Lane Vineyard is also a memorable dining experience. Settle in for head chef Thomas Robinson's multi-course lunch (seven days a week) or the Gathering Indulgence experience, which pairs flagship Heritage and Estate series wines with elaborate snacks. Fine dining restaurant LVN (at Bird in Hand Winery) is also worth pre-booking for a long lunch, and Thelma Piccadilly bistro is a beacon for the 'in the know' crowd.
For something more casual, pub grub is world class, especially at the likes of The Uraidla Hotel, The Stanley Bridge Tavern, and The Crafers Hotel. The latter is particularly notable thanks to an award-winning cellar (most recently the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards gong for Australia's Best Pub Restaurant Wine List). Sommelier Seth Piszczuk is a delightfully approachable and knowledgeable bloke and is happy to guide patrons through the impressive international and local spread.
Finally, for a top notch sanga on the run, Hahndorf 's Ernest Delicatessen can't be beat.
THINGS TO DO FOR FAMILIES IN ADELAIDE HILLS
Get picking at beloved Beerenberg Farm. (Credit: Kristy Billing @gyspyandherwild).
It would be remiss not to weave a walking trail into your Hills visit. There are plenty to choose from; climb Mt Lofty Summit if you're feeling particularly energetic, or for a close encounter of the native critter kind, Cleland National Park, Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary, or Gorge Wildlife Park are the ticket.
There's also plenty of wholesome family fun to be found at Hahndorf's Beerenberg Family Farm, where the joy of picking juicy strawberries is accompanied by a Farm Café serving a berry-packed smorgasbord. The signature breakfast dish is the Kartoffelpuffer: German potato rosti with a variety of toppings.
Cooking classes and tours provide insight into Beerenberg's long family history. When Grant and Carol Paech made their first homemade batch of strawberry jam in 1971 they sold it by the roadside, kickstarting Beerenberg as we know it today; a much-loved producer of jams, chutneys, sauces and dressings.
An oldie but a goodie is the Big Rocking Horse and Toy House (the giant horse begs to be climbed), while Birdwood's National Motor Museum delivers classic car eye-candy. For an art attack, The Cedars offers tours of the property and studio once home to 20th-century landscape painter Hans Heysen. Time your visit right and the monthly Stirling Market is a bounty of locally made food and wares.
GREAT ADELAIDE HILLS ACCOMMODATION
CABN's elegant off-grid accommodation (Credit: CABN).
There's 'switching off' and then there's really escaping reality. CABN's off-grid accommodation provides exactly that. Relaxation is mandatory when your bed looks out over kangaroos grazing and koalas napping in towering gums. When the season permits, the fire pit begs to be lit and the Weber Q fired up. It's pure romance with soul.
For more traditional accommodation, Mount Lofty House boutique hotel (or neighbouring Sequoia Luxury Lodge for a fancy kip) and Pavilions at Lenswood self-contained accommodation are memorable. A TrailHopper bus is the simplest, most cost-effective way to get to the Hills. It collects guests from the city's Stamford Plaza Hotel, or you can catch the bus in Hahndorf. Plan ahead for less stress, and more fun!
With thanks to South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) for organising winery visits for the writer.
SPECIAL OFFERS AND MUST-VISIT WINERIES - ADELAIDE HILLS TASTE PLAY STAY
Situated just a short drive from the South Australian capital of Adelaide, Adelaide Hills is one of the most accessible wine regions in Australia, making it a no-brainer for a weekend away in the vines. Some of the country's most celebrated wines are made here, the Hills enjoying a well-deserved reputation for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, cool climate Shiraz, Grüner Veltliner and - of course - its sparkling wines.
Home to over 90 wine labels and 50 cellar doors, it's not just the abundance of wineries and cellar doors in easy reach that makes Adelaide Hills a must-visit, however: the region is also blessed with a pastoral beauty of leafy lanes and light-dappled villages to explore, brimming over with first-rate produce to make the mouth water. As ever, Members receive access to exclusive Members Extras discounts for your visit to this unique and endlessly absorbing region.
THE LANE VINEYARD
A beautiful aerial view of The Lane Vineyard, Adelaide Hills.
The Lane's Lois Blanc de Blancs.
Tucked into the undulating landscape of the Adelaide Hills and just 25 minutes from Adelaide, The Lane captures the essence of refined cool-climate winemaking with a focus on hospitality that's equal parts relaxed and sophisticated. This modern wine estate is known for its unique blend of locally inspired flavours and immersive experiences, creating a must-visit for travellers seeking the region's top food and wine.
EXPERIENCES ON OFFER
From tailored tastings to hands-on dining experiences, The Lane's offerings are rooted in its connection to the land and community. The Gathering Experience is a mini degustation taking guests on a guided tasting of the estate's cool-climate wines, each crafted to reflect the vineyard's distinct terroir.
For those who prefer a more leisurely approach, Estate Picnics offer a chance to settle in among the vines with a basket of seasonal bites and carefully selected wines. The ultimate experience, however, is the Chef 's Table - a seven-course, ingredient-driven menu that celebrates seasonal produce from the estate and neighbouring local farms, including herbs and botanicals sourced from the nearby Jurlique Farm.
LOCAL RECOMMENDATION
A visit to the Adelaide Hills wouldn't be complete without a stop at Jurlique Farm, located just minutes from The Lane. This organic and biodynamic farm supplies the natural ingredients found in Jurlique's signature skincare products and adds a unique layer of regional flavour to The Lane's Chef 's Table experience, where select ingredients are woven into the menu.
WINE + FOOD MATCH
For an unforgettable pairing, The Lane's Lois Blanc de Blancs shines alongside Gazander Oysters with ponzu and lime. The wine's crisp acidity and delicate citrus undertones harmonise beautifully with the briny depth of the oysters, while the ponzu's umami and the lime's zest lift the palate, creating a refined and refreshing match. www.thelane.com.au
TAPANAPPA WINES
Picturesque Tapanappa Tiers Vineyard in the Adelaide Hills.
Pioneering winemaker Brian Croser and family, pictured at Tapanappa Tiers Vineyard.
Pioneering winemaker Brian Croser founded Tapanappa in 2002 and was the first to plant Chardonnay in the Adelaide Hills, establishing the Tiers Vineyard, which is now the picturesque site of the winery and Cellar Door, as well as home to his daughter and son-in-law's wine brands Terre ˆ Terre and sparkling wine DAOSA.
Just 25 minutes from the city centre, the Cellar Door offers a diverse and exciting range of wines from across the three family brands through structured tastings guided by knowledgeable team members. Platters of local cheese and charcuterie are also available.
LOCAL RECOMMENDATIONS
We love Mount Lofty House for accommodation or a lovely meal. If you're an avid hiker, explore the Heysen Trail for a beautiful day of on-foot exploration.
WINE + FOOD MATCH
Tapanappa Tiers Vineyard Chardonnay with marinated scallop, Granny Smith apple, cucumber, and Osietra Caviar (on the Mount Lofty House/ Hardy's Verandah menu). tapanappa.com.au & terreaterre.com.au
Get Offer
Free tasting for two when visiting our cellar door - Valid till: Monday, 31 March 2025
10% off when purchasing 12 bottles or more (can be used on both Tapanappa & Terre à Terre websites) - Valid till: Saturday, 31 May 2025
LA PROVA
A wine tasting at LA Prova Cellar Door.
A stunning line-up, Italian wine varietals of La Prova.
Specialising in Australian-grown Italian varieties, La Prova was established by winemaker Sam Scott in 2008, the culmination of more than two decades spent working in the industry both internationally and at home in Adelaide. Early on, Sam developed a natural affinity with Italian varieties, and saw Australia-s climate, as well as its evolving culture and unique lifestyle, as the perfect match for these wine styles.
La Prova's fruit is sourced almost exclusively from the Adelaide Hills: the northern Italian varieties from higher altitude, cooler areas like Lobethal and Woodside, and the southern Italian varieties from lower-lying areas such as Kersbrook and Macclesfield. The Cellar Door is open one weekend each month - take your time over a flight of five wines served with local chevre cheese and crackers.
LOCAL RECOMMENDATION
Catch the view over Piccadilly Valley from Mount Lofty House: enjoy a beer at the Uraidla Hotel en route.
WINE + FOOD MATCH
Fiano with crayfish, lemon juice and cracked black pepper on crusty bread. www.laprova.com.au
SOMERLED
Alfresco wine and dining at Somerled Cellar Door.
A wine tasting flight at Somerled Wines Cellar Door in the Adelaide hills.
Founded by the Moody family, Somerled has become synonymous with exceptional wine thanks to the lifelong dedication to viticulture of winemaker Rob Moody, whose winemaking journey began in 1969 under the guidance of Max Schubert, the 'father of Penfolds Grange.' In the early 1970s, when production of Grange moved from Magill Estate to the Barossa Valley, Schubert entrusted Rob with ensuring the quality of Grange remained uncompromised. This mentorship, along with his later role as Chief Winemaker at Wynns, solidified
Rob's reputation as one of Australia's foremost winemakers.
Today, Rob continues to shape Somerled's legacy, crafting wines that reflect his decades of expertise. Signature wines like the Sparklings, Shiraz, and Chardonnays are testament to his commitment to quality.
TASTING EXPERIENCES
Somerled's family tasting bar offers an elegant space to enjoy these exceptional wines all year round. In winter, guests can gather by the fireplace for wine flights accompanied by warmed nibbles, while summer brings the charm of expansive, sun-dappled courtyards, long luncheon platters, and relaxing pre-dinner drinks.
LOCAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The Cedars was the home, studio and gardens of famed artist Sir Hans Heysen. Just a short drive from Somerled, a visit to The Cedars is a rare opportunity to explore his works in a tranquil, immersive setting. Preserved as both gallery and heritage site, it's a beautiful escape and an ideal destination for art enthusiasts.
WINE + FOOD MATCH
Cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) with herb-infused jus, with the Somerled Tempranillo Graciano 2022: a beautifully balanced wine, savoury and European in style, it has been specifically selected to enhance the herb-infused jus in this dish with its roundness and subtle spices, its utterly mouthwatering acid cutting through the richness of the tender suckling pig! www.somerledwines.com.au
Get Offer
Selector Welcome Pack - Valid Until: Saturday, 31 May 2025