McLaren Vale
Sea-breeze Shiraz and old Grenache, half an hour from Adelaide.
McLaren Vale: the home of Shiraz and Grenache
McLaren Vale sits where the vineyards meet the Gulf, and the sea breeze gives its Shiraz a brighter, more supple style than the bigger Barossa to the north. It is also Australia's best home for old-vine Grenache, and its proximity to Adelaide makes it the easiest serious wine region in the country to visit on a day trip.
The wines
Shiraz is rich but fresher than Barossa's, with blue fruit and a savoury edge. Old-vine Grenache, often a century old, makes perfumed, lighter reds that have become some of Australia's most exciting. There is good Mediterranean-variety experimentation too.
Where to go
The township of McLaren Vale anchors a compact region of cellar doors running down to the coast at Aldinga. Many wineries pair tastings with architecture, art or sea views, and the beach is minutes from the vines.
Eat
The region has a strong food culture built on local olives, almonds and produce. Shiraz with grilled lamb, or chilled Grenache with Mediterranean plates, both work beautifully.
Getting there
Fly into Adelaide, then drive about 45 minutes south. A car is best, though day tours from Adelaide are plentiful.
Know the wine before you go.
The app teaches you Shiraz and Grenache in five minutes, then helps you order it with confidence. Learn the grape, then come back and plan the trip.
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McLaren Vale, quick answers.
What wine is McLaren Vale known for?
Shiraz, in a fresher style than the Barossa, and increasingly its old-vine Grenache. Both benefit from the cooling sea breeze.
How far is McLaren Vale from Adelaide?
About 45 minutes by car, which makes it one of the most accessible quality wine regions in Australia.
McLaren Vale or Barossa?
Barossa for the biggest, richest Shiraz and old-vine history. McLaren Vale for fresher Shiraz, exciting Grenache and a coastal setting closer to the city.
