South Australia produces almost half of Australia’s wine. Within a 150km radius of Adelaide are nine different wine regions , each with its own character and charm. Many are less than an hour’s drive away from Adelaide ,making for an easy day trip . Further afield are another nine regions so there are plenty of vinous delights to discover.
In the far north lies the Southern Flinders Rangers , where you’ll find a handful of boutique wineries . Here , richly flavoured cabernet and shiraz can be found .
Next is Clare Valley , a quintessential Australian wine region . Riesling is the superstar , known for it’s pure floral aromatics and intense flavours . Drive, or cycle the Riesling trail , or visit Skillogalee winery restaurant for sublime local free.
Just over three hours ‘ drive south –east of Clare is the Riverland, where grapes from irrigated vineyards find their way into big –name affordable brands.
Then there’s the Barossa Valley , known for it’s sublime , full bodied reds. Barossa shiraz is world renowned –its hallmarks being generosity ,chocolatey richness and soft tannins . Visit one of the cellar doors and experience old vine mourvedre or spicy bush-vine grenache.Not to be missed is a meal at Appelation, where sommelier Cassaly Fitzgerald champions lesser known local wines . Or dive into the Eden Valley for glorious flinty riesling.
The Adelaide Hills is not to be missed for chardonnay and well-crafted sauvignon blanc; the sub-regions of Lenswood and Piccadilly Valley are beautiful.
South of Adelaide is the charming McLaren Vale, with cosy cellar doors and welcoming vibe. The geology of the region is diverse,allowing different varieties to flourish .Visit Yangarra Estate Vineyard and try its wines made from Rhone varietals such as carignan , cinsault mataro and rousanne.
And close by are the regions of Southern Fleurieu, which produces elegant whites and reds, Langhorne Creek, known for its robust reds ; and Currency Creek , home to a handful of tiny wineries . Just off the coast is Kangaroo Island where many respectable drops are produced.
Journey far south to find a cluster of regions , distinct in style . The coastal areas of Mount Benson and Robe are known for their bright whites and vibrant reds. Inland you’ll find Padthaway, which makes lovely chardonnay and honest reds.Then comes Wrattonbully home to the fine wines of Tapanappa and Terre a Terre .
Visit Coonawarra for spicy shiraz and superb cabernet sauvignon . Try Fodder restaurant in the township or journey a little further to SA’s southern most wine region, Mount Gambier and eat at the Barn Steakhouse , with it impressive selection of local Limestone Coast and international wines