South Australia wineries are dominated by signature Shiraz reds, while world class Riesling and Chardonnay can also be found

Since South Australia is largely responsible for putting the country on the international wine map by way of the red wines to come from the renowned Barossa Valley, which are often regarded as Australia’s most recognisable wines.

And, since the vast area, which shares borders with all of Australia’s states except the island of Tasmania, is so accommodating to wine growers it’s not surprising that there are hundreds of South Australia wineries sprawled across over 15 distinct wine regions. South Australian wineries range from small boutique estates to large scale commercial vineyards, including some of the country’s most recognised labels from Penfolds Grange to Jacob’s Creek and Henschke Hill of Grace.

At Wine Paths, our local expert can organise exclusive tours of wineries in South Australia, which include elaborate tastings, luxury stays, fine dining experiences and some unique activities. All of our private tours can be tailor made to meet your exact specifications, ensuring every detail is taken care so that you can relax and enjoy the matter at hand – sampling the finest vintages from the best wineries in South Australia.

The climate and geography varies wildly across the region, which covers no less than 745 miles, giving rise an incredibly diverse range of sub-regions and corresponding wine styles that range from cool climate white wines to bombastic reds.

Most South Australia wineries are concentrated within driving distance from the main city of Adelaide and wine tasting tours will typically take you to explore several vineyards accompanied by a professional guide before the opportunity to sample some premium wines, often paired with local gourmet cuisine. The climate and geography varies wildly across the region, which covers no less than 745 miles, giving rise an incredibly diverse range of sub-regions and corresponding wine styles that range from cool climate white wines to bombastic reds.

Red wines continue to dominate South Australian wineries, with the country’s signature Shiraz (known elsewhere as Syrah) the most planted grape in the region. There are fewer successful white wines to come from the region, with the exception of some internationally acclaimed Riesling and Chardonnay varietals. Before planning a visit to the best wineries South Australia has to offer here is an overview of the grape varieties you can expect to encounter and where to find the finest examples.

As mentioned, Shiraz is South Australia’s trademark grape and is often used together with Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvedre to create the classic Australian GSM blend. The finest Shiraz comes from the Barossa Valley.Barossa is the country’s oldest and arguably most important wine region, with the Barossa Valley producing distinctive full-bodied reds with rich chocolate and spiced flavours that have attracted leading South Australia wineries such as Penfolds, Wolf Blass and Peter Lehmann.

Riesling is the most successful white wine promoted by South Australian wineries with world class vintages coming from both Eden Valley and Clare Valley, although each have their own individual personality.Eden Valley Riesling is vibrant with citrus flavours and floral aromatics, while its counterpart from Clare Valley is often stoically acidic and refreshing when young but ages gracefully over decades.

The Cabernet Sauvignon from Coonawarra is generally regarded as Australia’s finest courtesy of the unique red soil (‘terra rossa’) that gives the red wines a gentle savoury taste with some earthy mineralistic characters.Sparkling wines also feature frequently in South Australia wineries, especially those from the impossibly beautiful Adelaide Hills region where Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and some Pinot Meunier are used to make impressive ’Methode Champenoise’.

 

If you're interested in one of our Barossa Valley Wine Tours, please visit this link.

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