top of page
McLaren Vale Flat, Fleurieu Peninsula.jpg

McLaren Vale

McLaren Vale is situated 40 minutes south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula and the gateway to voyaging further to Kangaroo Island and Langhorne Creek. It is known for its mediterranean climate making it ideal for grape growing. To the East is the Mount Lofty Ranges which form a natural border along with the coastline on the west. While wine is everything at McLaren Vale, it has earnt a reputation as a spot for pizza lovers too

Photo Credit: Tourism Australia

The McLaren Vale wine region, just south of Adelaide, is one of Australia’s most dynamic and innovative regions. Known for its Mediterranean climate, proximity to the Gulf of St Vincent, and diversity of soils (over 40 geologies identified), it is a leader in both heritage Shiraz and new-wave Mediterranean varieties. The region combines deep winemaking traditions with a strong sustainability ethos and a thriving food-and-wine tourism culture.

​

Key grape varieties grown

  • Shiraz

    • The region’s signature grape.

    • Produces plush, full-bodied wines with dark fruit, chocolate, and spice.

    • Styles range from traditional, oak-rich expressions to fresher, modern, single-vineyard bottlings.

  • Cabernet Sauvignon

    • Widely planted, producing structured reds with blackcurrant, mint, and fine tannins.

    • Often blended with Shiraz.

  • Grenache

    • Increasingly celebrated as a hero variety of the region.

    • Old-vine Grenache (planted early 20th century) yields perfumed, silky, medium-bodied wines.

    • Often made in lighter, bright styles that contrast with Shiraz.

  • Mediterranean red varieties

    • Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Nero d’Avola, Montepulciano — thrive in the warm, dry climate.

    • These varieties reflect the region’s experimental spirit and food-friendly approach.

  • White varieties

    • Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc: grown but less dominant.

    • Fiano, Vermentino, and Arneis: Mediterranean whites now gaining prominence.

    • Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier: Rhône whites used in blends and varietals.

  • Fortifieds

    • Historically important, though less central today, with Shiraz and Grenache once used extensively.

 

Major wineries

McLaren Vale has a mix of historic estates, cult wineries, and innovative newcomers:

  • d’Arenberg

    • One of the region’s most famous names (est. 1912).

    • Known for The Dead Arm Shiraz (icon wine) and a wide portfolio of quirky-named wines.

    • The d’Arenberg Cube has become a tourism icon.

  • Wirra Wirra

    • Historic producer with a reputation for both premium Shiraz (R.S.W.) and approachable wines.

    • Strong regional ambassador.

  • Coriole Vineyards

    • A pioneer of alternative varieties.

    • Introduced Sangiovese and Fiano to Australia.

    • Also produces classic Shiraz and blends.

  • Kay Brothers

    • Established 1890s; one of the oldest family-owned wineries in the Vale.

    • Famous for Block 6 Shiraz from very old vines.

  • Clarendon Hills

    • Founded by Roman Bratasiuk; cult producer of single-vineyard Shiraz and Grenache.

    • Highly collectible, critically acclaimed.

  • Chapel Hill

    • Known for both Shiraz and Grenache.

    • Strong focus on sustainability.

  • Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard

    • Supplies grapes for Penfolds Grange and other icons.

    • Now producing its own critically acclaimed Shiraz and Cabernet under its own label.

  • Yangarra Estate

    • Biodynamic producer, specialising in Rhône varietals (Grenache, Roussanne, Mourvèdre, Shiraz).

    • Widely considered one of the region’s most innovative wineries.

  • S.C. Pannell

    • Founded by Stephen Pannell (former chief winemaker at Hardys).

    • Leading force in modern McLaren Vale styles, especially Grenache and Mediterranean reds.

  • Oliver’s Taranga Vineyards

    • Family estate with old vines.

    • Supplies fruit for Penfolds, but also produces premium Shiraz and alternative varietals.

bottom of page