Riverland

The Riverland is a region in Eastern-central South Australia, almost on the border with Victoria. Its major feature is the Murray-Darling river which runs through the wine region. The river provides irrigation to the Riverland grape growing area and is the states largest grape growing region surpassing Barossa Valley and others

Photo Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission

The Riverland wine region, stretching along the Murray River in South Australia, is Australia’s largest wine-producing region, supplying around one-third of the nation’s total crush. It is a powerhouse of viticulture, known for both bulk production and increasingly for innovative, sustainable, and alternative wine styles. With its hot, dry Mediterranean climate, reliable irrigation from the Murray, and fertile soils, Riverland is a crucial contributor to both domestic brands and international exports.

Key grape varieties grown

Because of its scale and climate, Riverland supports both mainstream international grapes and a growing movement toward Mediterranean and climate-resilient varieties.

Mainstream Varieties
- Shiraz — the most widely planted red; produces ripe, fruit-forward wines often blended into national labels.
- Cabernet Sauvignon — robust, structured, and versatile; used for varietal and blended wines.
- Chardonnay — the dominant white grape; styles range from crisp and fresh to oaked.
- Merlot — widely grown for approachable, juicy reds.
Mediterranean & Alternative Varieties (increasingly important due to climate change)
- Montepulciano
- Tempranillo
- Fiano
- Vermentino
- Nero d’Avola
- Sagrantino
- Durif (Petite Sirah)
- Grenache (both still and fortified styles)

Coonawarra

Victoria Wine Regions