McLaren Vale is a dynamic and innovative wine region where rolling hills meet the stunning coastline of South Australia. Famous for its intensely flavoured Shiraz and Grenache, the region is also a leader in sustainable and organic viticulture. Its Mediterranean climate and complex geology create rich, yet balanced wines that beautifully express their coastal terroir.
Region Type GI (Geographical Indication)
Famous For Rich Shiraz, old-vine Grenache, Mediterranean varieties
Red Shiraz, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvèdre
White Chardonnay, Fiano, Vermentino
Climate Warm Mediterranean
Soil Types Incredibly diverse; over 40 types including sand, clay, and ironstone
Geography & Climate
Located 45 minutes south of Adelaide, McLaren Vale is bordered by the Mount Lofty Ranges and the Gulf St Vincent. This proximity to the sea is crucial, as afternoon ocean breezes cool the vineyards, helping to retain acidity in the grapes and add a subtle savory character to the wines.
The region’s geology is famously complex, with a patchwork of different soil types providing a wide array of flavors and textures, even within a single vineyard.
McLaren Vale is one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, with the first vines planted in 1838 by settlers like John Reynell and Thomas Hardy. From its early days, the region showed a talent for producing high-quality red wines and fortifieds. Unlike many other global regions, it was never affected by phylloxera, allowing its old vines to thrive.
In the modern era, McLaren Vale has become a hub for innovation, with winemakers championing water conservation, biodynamic farming, and the introduction of new grape varieties suited to its warm climate.
Known for its deep sandy soils, producing highly aromatic and elegant Grenache.
With higher elevation and ocean exposure, this area is known for structured, powerful Shiraz.
A slightly warmer area known for its rich, full-bodied reds.
McLaren Vale Shiraz is typically rich and velvety, with flavors of blackberry, dark chocolate, and mocha, but with a softness and elegance that distinguishes it from Barossa styles. Old-vine Grenache is a regional treasure, producing fragrant, medium-bodied wines with red fruit and spice notes. Cabernet Sauvignon is also important, known for its structure and savory character.
While reds dominate, the region is earning acclaim for Mediterranean white varieties. Fiano and Vermentino produce textural, aromatic wines with bright acidity, perfect for the coastal lifestyle.
An iconic winery with a flair for the eccentric (like its Cube building), producing a huge range of characterful wines.
A certified biodynamic producer focusing on Rhône varieties from its single-vineyard estate.
A premium producer crafting stunning, terroir-driven Shiraz and Grenache.
Founded by winemaker Stephen Pannell, this winery is a leader in championing Mediterranean varieties and food-friendly wine styles.
A historic winery known for its high-quality red wines and commitment to sustainability.
Australia 
0Grape Varieties