The Best Wineries in McLaren Vale for Second-to-None Sips

Take a drive south from Adelaide CBD and find yourself surrounded by the rolling green hills and sprawling vineyards of Mclaren Vale. Whilst some visitors to Adelaide may choose to explore the Barossa Valley to the north (which we also would never say no to ourselves), there is no denying the easy appeal of cosy cellar doors, relaxed outdoor patios and unmatched fine-dining awaiting in the best wineries in McLaren Vale - for good reason. 

More than just a notable region of world-class wineries, experiences and varieties that excite the palate (think Grenache, Tempranillo, Fiano and Montepulciano), there are also plenty of delectable culinary delights on offer at the vineyards, galleries and homesteads scattered throughout the picturesque landscape.

There are venues to suit any palate, budget and occasion, so we've done the incredibly difficult task of rounding up the best wineries in McLaren Vale right here for you. 

Angove Family Winemakers

Angove Family Winemakers, a cherished fifth-generation family-owned winery and distillery, crafts super premium and single vineyard wines from its organic vineyards in McLaren Vale. The dedication to quality shines through in their diverse range of organic wines and spirits sourced from Australia’s finest wine-growing regions.

Visitors to their inviting cellar door are welcomed into a warm and friendly atmosphere, where they can indulge in tastings of their award-winning selections. The experience is further enhanced by delicious food offerings, where you can savour  the best of regional flavours and textures that perfectly pair to complement their exquisite wines.

Open daily, 11am to 5pm

117 Chalk Hill Road, McLaren Vale

Hugh Hamilton Wines

With a storied legacy tracing back six generations to the adventurous smuggler Richard Hamilton (Australia’s oldest wine family, FYI), Hugh Hamilton Wines is a charming vineyard dedicated to crafting exceptional wines that celebrate this rich heritage. The unique terroir of their vineyards produces vibrant Shiraz and Cabernet that captivate the senses. Committed to sustainable practices, Hugh Hamilton champions chemical-free farming, nurturing a thriving ecosystem.

Whether you’re indulging in a tasting at their picturesque cellar door or savouring a bold vintage (their Cellar Vineyard’s robust Shiraz is a must-try), every sip invites you to experience the Hamilton legacy and the artistry of winemaking. 

Open daily, 11am to 5pm

94 McMurtrie Road, McLaren Vale 

Samson Tall Wines 

Discover the true essence of McLaren Vale at this charming boutique winery. Set within a historic 1854 pug church, complete with an old cemetery, the welcoming cellar door at Samson Tall Wines is surrounded by lush lawns and sprawling vineyards. Known for crafting exceptional small-batch wines from locally sourced grapes, the winery is committed to sustainable practices.

Visitors can enjoy tastings in a warm, friendly atmosphere, savouring bold reds and crisp whites while soaking in picturesque vineyard views—a must-visit for any wine lover in the region.

Open daily, 11am to 5pm

219 Strout Road, McLaren Vale

Paxton Wines

Paxton Wines is one of the most delightfully picturesque wineries in McLaren Vale, where organic and biodynamic winemaking comes to life. Founded in 1979, this family-owned winery is set in a charming 1850s shearing shed, offering a warm and welcoming cellar door experience. Here, guests can sip on a diverse selection of wines (their reds in particular are smashingly good) crafted exclusively from estate-grown grapes while soaking up stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.

The cellar door invites you to unwind with delicious wood-fired pizza on weekends or indulge in a regional platter of gourmet cheese, antipasto, and charcuterie.

Open daily, 10am to 5pm (closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Anzac Day, and New Year’s Day)

68 Wheaton Road, McLaren Vale

Wirra Wirra 

Known for its impressive biodynamic vineyards, this family-owned estate has a rich history dating back to the 1890s. Guests can enjoy tastings of elegant wines, while soaking in breathtaking views from the historic ironstone cellars. Their Rose is excellent. 

Don't miss Harry's Deli, which offers a contemporary Australian menu showcasing seasonal produce, perfectly paired with Wirra Wirra's exquisite wines.

With its warm atmosphere, commitment to sustainability, guided cellar tours, plus the chance ring a 3/4-tonne bell, Wirra Wirra is a true gem in South Australia’s wine landscape.

Open daily, Monday - Saturday, 10am to 5pm; Sunday and Public Holidays, 11am to 5pm (closed Good Friday and Christmas Day)

255 Strout Road, McLaren Vale 

Alpha Box & Dice

Alpha Box and Dice is one of our favourite wineries in McLaren Vale, a whimsical delight embracing the spirit of creativity with its unique “Alphabet of Wine” concept. Each letter of the alphabet corresponds to a different wine style, ensuring a diverse tasting experience that’s anything but ordinary.

The gorgeous cellar door, set in a charming heritage-listed barn, offers immersive tastings, complete with delightful cheese and vegan plates. Guests can also relax on the grassy lawns, enjoying their glass or platter in a picturesque setting.

It’s a fun, vibrant spot for wine lovers seeking something truly distinctive. 

Open daily, 10am to 5pm (bookings advised)

8 Olivers Road, McLaren Vale

Samuel's Gorge

Samuel's Gorge, perched atop a ridge in McLaren Vale, perfectly blends history and contemporary winemaking. Housed in a charming barn built in 1853, this hidden gem is renowned for its exceptional Grenache, sourced from the region's unique sandy soils in Blewitt Springs. Under the skilled guidance of winemaker Justin McNamee, the winery captures the essence of its terroir.

Visitors can indulge in relaxed wine tastings while soaking in the stunning views of Onkaparinga Gorge National Park. The welcoming cellar door features cosy corners for winter gatherings by the fire, while expansive lawns invite summer picnics, making every visit a delightful experience.

Open daily, 11am to 5pm (except for Christmas Day)

193, Lot 10 Chaffeys Road, McLaren Vale 

Chalk Hill Wines

For the ultimate McLaren Vale afternoon, one cannot miss a tasting experience at Chalk Hill Wines. You'll find their modern and relaxed cellar door right in the heart of the region. Chalk Hill offers curated tasting flights of their hand-crafted wine (one tasting includes chocolate, and is a real crowd-pleaser), and the in-house food truck is the perfect reason to push for a longer reservation.

Cucina Strada is the on site restaurant, providing shareable, delicious Italian-style street food as you enjoy alfresco dining surrounded by magnificent views. Enjoy your pizza and expertly paired wine, before heading straight next door to Never Never Gin Distillery to keep the good times rolling.

Open 11am-5pm Sunday – Thursday, 11am-9pm Friday, 11am –6pm Saturday

56 Field Street, McLaren Vale

Coriole Vineyards

One would be hard-pressed to find a list of the best wineries in McLaren Vale without a mention of the rustically gorgeous Coriole Vineyards. Enjoy a lovely meal at the Coriole Vineyards Restaurant – open 5 days a week - and settle in for a long lunch of the highest quality. The chefs opt for seasonal, fresh produce - some of it grown on-site in the kitchen garden and farm - providing a memorable experience for foodies. The ‘Feed Me’ options are the best way to try a bit of everything - and trust us when we say you’ll want to try it all. When lunch is done, take a stroll through the perfectly manicured gardens and take a snap of the seemingly never-ending views around you. Or, simply pop in for a tasting or three in the cellar door.

Cellar door open daily, 11am-5pm

Chaffeys Road, McLaren Vale

The Currant Shed

With over 1000 glowing reviews online, The Currant Shed is a humble crowd pleaser in McLaren Flat - a small sub region of McLaren Vale. While it is more restaurant over winery, we couldn’t leave this one out! Currant Shed's experienced team use fresh produce from the local Fleurieu Peninsula and surrounding regions of South Australia to create seasonal, visually appealing and incredibly delicious dishes. Friendly and knowledgeable staff will talk you through the varying textures and tastes on offer, all in a relaxed and informal setting. Visitors are encouraged to take the short stroll to sister venue Shottesbrooke Wines where the day only gets better with a drop of your choice in the courtyard garden.

Open 11am – 5.30pm Thursday – Tuesday

04 Ingoldby Road, McLaren Flat

d’Arenberg

Home of South Australia’s most-photographed cube, d’Arenberg is one of the most popular wineries in McLaren Vale. This winery has been proudly run by the Osbourne family for four generations, and good wine and memorable experiences are part of their DNA. Visit the cellar door in the cube for a tasting with a view, enjoy free admission to the Sculpture Gardens and Modern Masters Marquee to delight the inner artist in you, and even play winemaker for a day at their Blending Bench.

When hunger strikes - d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant has been providing degustation and à la carte menus for more than two decades, with the restaurant focused on celebrating the best local produce available in the region.

Open daily, 10.30am - 4.30pm

Osborn Road, McLaren Vale

Mitolo Wines

Mitolo Wines is an aesthetic dream, and a fabulous winery to match. Every corner of this venue works as the perfect backdrop, with its modern, polished buildings set amongst pristinely manicured greenery. Visit the cellar door to try the wines loved by many and take a lesson in the craftsmanship and history of the Mitolo family.

When you need a fun spot for lunch, head to Frankie’s Italo Dining and Disco. Disco music plays throughout the modern restaurant, creating a fun atmosphere as customers partake in tipples from the extensive cocktail and wine list. Terrazzo tables and funky branding clearly call for a photoshoot to capture the vibe. For something a little more understated, Little Wolf Osteria serves up meals for lunch that proudly show off the best produce in the area, in a chic and sleek space. Check out the menu here.

Open Thursday to Sunday, 10am - 5pm

141 McMurtrie Road, McLaren Vale

Yangarra Estate Vineyard

A stunning brand-new cellar door, top-quality wines, tasting experiences and beautiful rolling vineyards are just some of the fabulous things on offer at Yangarra Estate Vineyard. Opt for a relaxed tasting or take it a step further with a private wine experience in The White House, where you’ll be treated to some of the estate's finest drops. With a house Cabernet-Shiraz taking out a top award in 2023, rest assured the wines here are incredibly pleasing to sip.

Sitchu Tip: Don't miss a chance to try and buy the Hickinbotham 2021 Mr. Grant Malbec. An exceptional vintage; delicious doesn't begin to cover it!

Cellar door open daily, 11am – 5pm

809 McLaren Flat Road, Kangarilla

Maxwell Wines

It’s near impossible to find a fault in the design of Maxwell Wines. This award-winning winery and restaurant is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the tastebuds. Muted tones of cream and beige pair perfectly with soft timber and sandstone, and large windows frame the lush gardens and rows of vineyards right outside.

An outstanding spot to celebrate a milestone - this elegant venue is complemented by a curated tasting menu showcasing the best South Australian produce. Head Chef Fabian Lehmann boasts world-class experience from Michelin-Star restaurants throughout Europe. He has created a degustation that explores a variety of intricate flavours and textures, leaving guests with a greater appreciation for the value of fine dining.

Cellar door open daily, 11am - 5pm

19 Olivers Road, McLaren Vale

Bekkers Wine

Viticulturist Toby Bekker and his wife Emmanuelle are the dynamic duo behind the brilliant Bekkers Wine. This boutique winery is producing delectable drops only available to a curated selection of premium restaurants and merchants. Visit the intimate and relaxed cellar door for an informative tasting and be surrounded by the manicured vineyards and gardens, easily viewed through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Cellar door open 10am – 4pm, Thursday to Sunday

212-220 Seaview Road, McLaren Vale

Beresford Estate

A truly indulgent experience awaits at Beresford Estate. One of the best wineries in McLaren Vale, there is more to see here than just the sleek Tasting Pavilion – though that alone is certainly worth a visit! Beresford House is a stunning display of architecture and heritage and popular for events and weddings, while the new Vale Brewing, Bar and Restaurant talks to all 5 senses, with dishes and drinks that surprise and delight. This winery is so fabulous you may find yourself wanting to stay a little longer. Lucky for you, there are lavish suites and villas on the property to cosy up inside, turning an afternoon here into a weekend of pure bliss amongst the vineyards.

Open daily, 10am - 5pm

252 Blewitt Springs Road, McLaren Flat

Has all this talk of great wine got you ready to explore more of Adelaide? The fun doesn’t have to stop with the best wineries in McLaren Vale. Why not turn a day drip into a weekend away and choose from a variety of luxury accommodation scattered throughout the flourishing and nearby Adelaide Hills.