Best McLaren Vale Wineries

Home to some of the world’s oldest grapevines and accessible just 45 minutes from Adelaide, McLaren Vale is a wine-lovers dream. Nestled between the Mount Lofty Ranges and the beaches of Gulf St Vincent, the McLaren Vale wine region is the gateway to the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula, evocative of the stunning coastline around Lisbon, Portugal.

It’s here you’ll find some of the best McLaren Vale wineries, restaurants and accommodation, including McLaren Vale wineries accommodation and wineries with restaurants. There’s so much to love about McLaren Vale wine!

Shop McLaren Vale Wines

 

WHAT WINE IS BEST FROM MCLAREN VALE?

McLaren Vale’s exceptional climate and wealth of soil types are suited to a broad range of vines, from established favourites including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, and Chardonnay, to emerging Euro-style alternative varieties. 

The warm, Mediterranean-style climate and proximity to the sea go a long way to explaining the fantastic range of Spanish, Italian and Portuguese varieties on offer throughout the region. Alongside the deservedly celebrated Tempranillo, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Vermentino, Fiano and Touriga Nacional varieties on offer, a sense of adventure abounds in the countless alternative varieties and superior red wine blends coming from the region, with something new to discover at every winery and cellar door.

Trent Mannell, Wine Selector’s Tasting Panellist and Wine Show Judge, is effusive in his love for McLaren Vale region. “It’s a region where the vines meet the sea, so it has a unique coastal vibe, and the wines reflect the influence of the maritime climate. The cellar doors are so peaceful; it’s the most tranquil wine region I know.”

“I often get asked how many days you need in McLaren Vale? “says Trent. “I usually reply, how long do you have? Some people are happy with a long weekend, but if my Wine Selectors boss would let me, I’d stay for weeks.”

 

HOW MANY WINERIES DOES MCLAREN VALE HAVE?

McLaren Vale has over 160 vineyards which supply fruit for over 80 local wineries and many in other wine regions. Most of the wineries are located around five main areas: McLaren Vale, McLaren Flat, Currency Creek, Old Reynella, Willunga, and Aldinga.

 

HOW MANY CELLAR DOORS ARE THERE IN MCLAREN VALE?

The McLaren Vale wine region boasts around 80 cellar doors offering tasting from wineries that date back several generations to others that are new on the scene. 

 

WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR WINERY IN MCLAREN VALE?

With so many wonderful wineries and cellar doors in the region, it’s impossible to pick the most popular. Read on for our Wine Selectors picks for some of the best McLaren Vale wineries and cellar doors, plus discover more about the wines you can explore in our McLaren Vale region guide. We’ve also got the low-down on the best things to do in McLaren Vale, along with our top suggestions for places to eat and where to stay while you’re there. 

 

McLaren Vale Wineries Map

Planning a trip to McLaren Vale? Download out interactive McLaren Vale winery map. To save on your browser or device, click HERE.

 

Best McLaren Vale Wineries and Cellar Doors

Pristine ocean views, exceptional wine blends, an abundance of new varieties… what’s not to love about the birthplace of the SA wine industry? Take a tour of the best McLaren Vale wineries and cellar doors. 

Bec Hardy Wines

With an award-winning range of wines that reflects 170 years and six generations of South Australian winemaking heritage, a visit to the Bec Hardy Wines cellar door is a must-do experience for any wine lover visiting the McLaren Vale region. Enjoy a relaxed and comfortable tasting experience inside the recently refurbished tasting room, or a unique tasting experience outside surrounded by native flora and fauna, all while taking in the stunning views. Bec’s 40-year-old Pertaringa brand offers its well-known range of wines from this iconic region including classics like Chardonnay, Shiraz and Cabernet, while her Bec Hardy range features contemporary styles including Pinot Gris, Rosé, and Mourvédre from a variety of premium South Australian wine regions. 

Enjoy a longer stay by visiting ‘The Kitchen at Bec Hardy’, an elevated casual dining experience set amongst the vines, where chef Anthony Schlenk serves up a celebration of fresh, local and seasonal produce that has been sustainably sourced and curated for sharing.  Open 11am – 3pm daily.

Open Daily, 10am - 4pm
327 Hunt Rd, McLaren Vale 
Visit Bec Hardy website

 

Haselgrove Wines

Established in 1981, Haselgrove is surrounded by Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvèdre – with the Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon vines dating back more than 60 years. Although renowned for producing award-winning McLaren Vale reds, their whites are also making ripples with those in the know. Their modern rooftop cellar door offers beautiful 360-degree views of the vineyards and beyond, with a range of tasting experiences available including the Origin Series, Legend Series, and Winemaker for a Minute. If you’re feeling a little peckish, you can choose to enjoy hand-stretched pizzas or gourmet grazing boards with tastings.

Open Mon-Fri 12 pm to 4pm, Sat and Sunday 11 am to 5pm
Rooftop open Friday-Sunday
291 Foggo Road, McLaren Vale
Visit Haselgrove website

 

Hither & Yon

Built from the soil up and lovingly curated by a truly invested team, Hither & Yon celebrates not just the rolling nature of the region, but the easy-going nature of the Brothers Leask and this family-and-friend run business. Their cellar door – originally an 1860s Willunga butcher’s shop – retains its local slate flooring and limestone walls yet has been refreshed to reflect the artisanal vibe of a vine to table sensibility. An intimate space, a maximum of 14 people can be served at a time, so booking is recommended for groups of 6 or more.

With wine tastings, cheese platters, and a fireplace to kick back and savour a fine Shiraz, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Blanc, or Nero D’Avola (among others), Hither & Yon emphasises sustainable grape-growing that celebrates the geography and maritime influence of McLaren Vale.

17 High St, Willunga
Open daily 11am to 4pm
Visit the Hither & Yon website

 

Shottesbrooke

The Shottesbrooke story begins just outside the South Australian hamlet of Myponga, with the quality fruit produced by founder Nick Holmes. A new era for the label began when he purchased a McLaren Flat property, where the Shottesbrooke winery and cellar door were built and some of McLaren Vale’s most exciting wines were brought to life. Nestled amongst the company vineyards with magnificent view to the surrounding Mount Lofty Ranges, the cellar door offers a diverse range of excellent wines made at the winery right next door, presented by a passionate and experienced staff. 

You can make a day of it with an all-inclusive full-day tour, and take a journey into the heart of the winemaker’s craft; or, stroll through the estate vineyards for a three-course lunch prepared by the award-winning chefs at The Currant Shed, best enjoyed alongside a hand selected range of matched Shottesbrooke wines.

101 Bagshaws Road, McLaren Flat
Open Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri, Sat, Sun 11 am to 5 pm
Visit the Shottesbrooke website

 

D'Arenberg

d’Arenberg is a McLaren Vale institution with d’Arry Osborn and his son Chester, Chief Winemaker, renowned for their fantastic Shiraz and Grenache. Formerly housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century homestead, the d’Arenberg cellar door has now soared into a bold new era with the daring d’Arenberg Cube, a multi-venue experience that is home to masterclasses, à la carte or degustation dining, as well as a contemporary art museum. You can even play winemaker for the day, blending and bottling your own wine. And, of course, you can also explore an extensive range of quality wines, guided by their always entertaining cellar door staff. Learn more about The Cube in our interview with Chester, and explore The d’Arenberg Experience at their website.

Osborn Rd, McLaren Vale
Open Daily 10:30am to 4:30pm
Visit the d’Arenberg website

 

Battle of Bosworth

Want to learn how organic wines are cultivated? Then make sure to stop by this charming cellar door and sample the wares of boutique winemaker Joch Bosworth, who took the reins of the family business back in 1995 and drove a return to the old ways. Such pride in tradition is suitably reflected in quality examples of Shiraz, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Touriga Nacional. Located just outside the historic township of Willunga, the cellar door occupies a restored 1850s stable and chaff shed with views over the vineyards and west to St Vincent.

92 Gaffney Rd, Willunga
Open Mon - Sat 11am to 5pm, Sunday 12pm to 5pm 
Visit the Battle of Bosworth website
 

Gemtree Wines

Gemtree Wines operates on a simple philosophy – minimal intervention in the winemaking process, and a more eco-conscious farming system. The result is a range of wines which are powerful, concentrated, and expressive of the true characteristics of each grape variety and the region. The relaxed and unassuming outlook created by husband-and-wife duo Mike and Melissa permeates every aspect of the cellar door experience, which features views all the way to the sea from their outdoor verandah. 

Sample their fantastic wines at the sustainably run tasting room, built using recycled materials and powered by solar panels, while learning more about organic and biodynamic farming practices. Choose from a wide range of experiences in the tasting room and around the property, and make sure you take the time to explore the 10-hectare wetland eco-trail while you’re there.

167 Elliott Rd, McLaren Flat
Open Daily 11am to 5pm
Visit the Gemtree website

 

Leconfield & Richard Hamilton Wines

Looking for the perfect place to sample Richard Hamilton’s Estate, Single Vineyard Reserve and select Leconfield wines? Then set a course for Leconfield cellar door, where you can appreciate the natural qualities imparted by the family-owned vineyards in McLaren Vale as well as the vines surrounding the cellar door itself. With its sweeping lawns and verandahs plus generous platters of local regional food on offer, Leconfield will delight the senses. Find out more about Chief Winemaker Paul Gordon’s process in our Wine Selectors Q&A.

439 Main Rd, McLaren Vale
Open Daily 11am to 4pm
Visit the Leconfield & Richard Hamilton Wines website

 

Serafino

Steve (Serafino) Maglieri arrived in Adelaide in 1964 as a teenager from Italy with little more than a passionate dream to make great wine. After many highs and a few lows in the wine industry, eventually the Serafino label emerged, and the Maglieri family was able to craft their own piece of paradise amongst the gumtrees of their McLaren Vale winery. The warm, friendly, and familiar ethos of Serafino is evident in the cellar door, charming restaurant, and four-star accommodation, making it the perfect place to position yourself for a weekend getaway… the better to enjoy Serafino’s great range of Italian and alternative varieties such as the Bellissimo series of Vermentino, Fiano and Montepulciano through to reserve Grenache and Shiraz.

39 Kangarilla Rd, McLaren Vale
Open Daily 10am to 4:30pm
Visit the Serafino website

 

Oliver's Taranga

Contained within an original 1850s stone worker’s cottage built by the first generation of the Oliver family, Oliver’s Taranga cellar door retains both an authentic charm and a deserved reputation for exceptional wines. In addition to its excellent range of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon you’ll also find small batch wonders like Fiano, Grenache, Mencia and Sagrantino to delight the palate. Planning a visit? Be sure to check their events page before you go, as the venue hosts many unique food and wine events to enjoy, including monthly Porchetta Parties, Twilight Pizza events, and even pop-up happenings in Adelaide. 

246 Seaview Rd, McLaren Vale
Open Daily 10am to 4pm
Visit the Oliver’s Taranga website

 

Coriole

Set within sight of the sea amidst the undulating McLaren Vale hills, this small boutique cellar door can be found in an old 1860s ironstone barn, surrounded by the Coriole Estate vineyards. Famous for its pioneering efforts in introducing alternative varieties to the region – most notably Sangiovese in 1985 and the first Australian Fiano in 2005 – Coriole’s range has an impressive diversity that includes Sangiovese, Barbera, Picpoul, Nero d’Avola, Fiano, as well as exquisite examples of the classic Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties. If you’re lucky, you may even get to sample a rare single vineyard Shiraz, or perhaps a Mourvedre. It’s only a small cellar door so if you’re travelling in a group of eight or more you will need to book. The Coriole restaurant serves innovative food created from ingredients that speak to the providence of McLaren Vale - it's fresh, seasonal, and sourced from local producers and their own kitchen garden and farm. Open for lunch Thursday to Monday.

Chaffeys Rd, McLaren Vale
Open Daily 11am to 5pm
Visit the Coriole website

 

Best things to do in McLaren Vale

While the multitude of amazing wineries and cellar doors may be the main incentive for your visit to McLaren Vale, there’s also plenty of other fun and exciting activities to explore and enjoy. Here are some of our favourites!

•    The Port Noarlunga Arts Centre - Located in the Old Institute Building on Gawler St, Port Noarlunga, plays home to a number of local arts, craft and theatrical groups. The centre is part of a metropolitan entertainment circuit, providing the best South Australian performers and talent to entertain audiences. Learn more about upcoming shows and exhibitions at the City of Onkaparinga Arts Centre. 

•    Willunga Farmers Market - Stop in and experience the best locally grown produce at South Australia’s first Farmers Market, open every Saturday in historic Willunga… rain, hail, or shine. The markets bring the community together and support local farmers, producers and businesses – they are a great way to sample produce and products from the Fleurieu Peninsula. Learn more about the Willunga Farmers Market.

•    The Shiraz Trail - Keen to swap four wheels for two? Cycle the Fleurieu Peninsula’s 8km Shiraz Trail, a mostly flat and picturesque trail through McLaren Vale vineyards. A favourite among cyclists and bushwalkers, you’ll have the chance to stop in at some of the region’s best wineries for tastings – navigate the trail on your own or join a guided e-bike winery tour. If you’re feeling extra adventurous and energetic, why not tackle the whole 35km Coast to Vines Rail Trail. Ready to hit the road? Find out more here. 

•    Beaches Galore - With over 30km of breathtaking coastline, it wouldn’t be a visit to McLaren Vale without a stop off at one (or more) of the region’s pristine beaches or take it all in along the Route 31 Coastal Drive. Gorgeous blue water, long, sprawling stretches of sand…it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy some Vitamin Sea. Whether it’s a quick dip or a stroll along the sand you’re after, some fishing or boating, or a beach drive, you can find it at these McLaren Vale beaches. 

•    Cheesmaking Classes - SloWhey School of Cheese celebrates sustainable cheesemaking, education and a slower way of living. Located just outside of Willunga, visitors can book into classes like Soft and Gooey Camembert & Fromage Frais or Streeettch! Mozzarella, Burrata & Stracciatella. Spend the day slowing down, learning, laughing, and making delicious, fresh cheese. Make some cheese at SloWhey. 

•    Explore below the surface - Embark on an underwater tour and snorkel the Port Noarlunga Reef Sanctuary Zone, one of South Australia’s most popular snorkelling spots. Located within the Encounter Marine Park, there’s a large range of plants, fish and invertebrates to explore amongst the reef. Learn more here. 

 

Best places to eat in McLaren Vale

There’s something special about a delicious meal shared with friends or family, and this abundant region has outstanding venues where you can savour the experience. Here are some of the best places to eat in McLaren Vale.

•    Muni Restaurant – an intimate, open kitchen dining experience, Muni is an award-winning restaurant in Willunga that serves dishes reflecting the sensitivity of the seasons and the tireless efforts of the people that work the land and sea. Offering one set tasting menu, Muni recommends allowing 3 hours to enjoy their dining experience.

•    Star of Greece – with a focus on simple, local, and fresh, this relaxed beachside dining in Port Willunga offers good food and great wine with beautiful ocean views. From fish and chips in the kiosk to a three or four course meal in the restaurant, you’ll find something delicious to enjoy.

•    Pizzatecca – showcasing locally sourced South Australian ingredients, Pizzatecca uses authentic Italian techniques passed down from generation to generation to craft their Neopolitan-style pizzas, cooked in an authentic wood oven that was hand built in Naples. 

•    McLaren Vale Hotel -  the local pub has a special place in the Australian psyche and the McLaren Vale hotel performs them all, from meeting place to somewhere to grab a bite to eat and a drop to quench the thirst. You’ll be spoilt for choice with an extensive drinks list and a “polished rustic” menu offering pub classics and tasty tapas.

•    Coriole restaurant – enjoy innovative food created from fresh, seasonal McLaren Vale ingredients, including from their very own kitchen garden and farm. Open for lunch from Thursday to Sunday, choose from an a la carte menu or “Feed Me” tasting menu with optional wine pairing.

 

Best places to stay in McLaren Vale

With so much to do and see, you’re not going to want to rush your trip. So, where are the best places to stay in McLaren Vale?

There are fantastic options right in the heart of McLaren Vale wine country, so you’re sure to find some comfortable digs to make your trip to McLaren Vale memorable. Here are some of our top picks for accommodation when visiting McLaren Vale.

•    Red Poles – located in the heart of McLaren Vale, only 45 minutes from Adelaide, Red Poles offers three light and airy rooms positioned around a courtyard and garden. Families and pets are welcome, and they are within walking distance of some of the region’s best loved wineries.

•    Hotel California Road -  a modern, luxury micro-hotel at Inkwell Wines, this adults only property offers king suites featuring soaking tubs, rain showers, mini-bars and more. Relax while taking in the gorgeous view of vineyards through the floor to ceiling windows. 

•    Sandalwood Shearing Shed – offering a tranquil country escape, this converted shearing shed accommodation set on a secluded McLaren Vale property has all the modern comforts and is just minutes from the region’s wineries. Relax, unwind and enjoy the serenity!

•    Old Chaff Mill Retreat – the stunningly restored Chaff Mill offers luxury vineyard accommodation where your every comfort is catered for. With an ultra-modern fit out, this boutique stay nestled amongst the vines is perfect for special occasions, or just unwinding in style.

•    McLaren Vale Studio Apartments – 6 unique villas in the heart of McLaren Vale, sponsored by 6 local wineries. These fully self-contained, self-catered villas are in the buzzing town precinct, with easy access to restaurants, cellar doors and specialty shops.

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The best that Australia's wine regions have to offer

Want to see more of what our great wine regions have to offer? Then don’t miss our comprehensive guide to Australia’s Best Wineries and Cellar Doors – from the Hunter Valley in the east to Great Southern in the west, it’s the ultimate go-to-guide for planning your next wine adventure.

For Wine Selectors Members, make sure to check out our Members Extras offers before planning your next trip, and discover what fantastic. Offers are available for your wine region destination!

Want to see what all the fuss is about McLaren Vale wines? Order some for yourself, experience some of the finest examples of premium winemaking this country has to offer and save with Wine Selectors.