Wine Regions

McLaren Vale

McLaren Vale is one of the largest and oldest South Australian wine regions producing world-class wines, some from vines that are over 100 years old.

Situated south of Adelaide, McLaren Vale is bordered by Gulf St Vincent beaches and the Mount Lofty Ranges. The region is considered by many to be the birthplace of South Australian viticulture. With 7,438 hectares of vineyards, McLaren Vale is an established grower of both red and white wine varieties, a selection as diverse as its climate.

Our best McLaren Vale wines

McLaren Vale climate and soil

The McLaren Vale wine region has a low altitude and a warm Mediterranean climate. Cool ocean breezes regulate the hot summer temperatures and help the grapes maintain structure and acidity.

The McLaren Vale has a wide variety of soil types that reflect its varied terrain. Soil types range from well-drained soils to red-brown loams to Bay of Biscay soil. This variety helps McLaren Vale grow a multitude of grapes and is home to several famed McLaren Vale wineries.

Wine grapes grown in McLaren Vale

McLaren Vale is best known for its intense and velvety smooth Shiraz. The region produces other red grape varieties, including Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Dominating their white varieties are Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, producing delicate yet zesty wines.