Renowned by many as the quintessential South Australian Shiraz wine producing region, the Barossa Valley is home to the oldest Shiraz and Grenache vines still in production worldwide. As captivating as its soil, the valley’s history is layered and complex, leaving one yearning for more. With gently undulating hills draped in vines as far as the eye can see and a sparse population, the region offers a tranquil escape. As a sommelier in Australia, the author presents their personal favorites from the region, alongside the most sought-after estates requested by guests. It is certain that any winery listed will satisfy even the most discerning of Winetravelers.
For those seeking to reach the famed Barossa Valley, Adelaide airport offers a convenient gateway, with a brief one-hour drive leading to the heart of the Barossa Zone. While public transportation in the region is minimal, renting a car offers the ideal mode of transportation, though taxis are also readily accessible, requiring just fifteen minutes notice to reach most destinations within the valley. For those arriving internationally, connecting through the Adelaide airport is necessary, and it is recommended to avoid budget airline Jet Star, comparable to Spirit or Frontier for US-based readers, for a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience. Instead, opt for airlines such as Qantas or Virgin Australia. These airlines provide top-notch service, a range of flight options, and comfortable seating arrangements. You can get updates on flight deals as they arise with Kayak.
When planning the drive to Barossa Valley, it is worthwhile to take a few extra minutes and drive west through Adelaide Hills and north through Eden Valley. This route offers a breathtaking drive with countless vineyards and wineries dotting the way, building up anticipation and excitement for what awaits in Barossa. As travel is all about spontaneity, if time permits, one can leave a few hours of extra time to stop by an Adelaide Hills winery, such as Ashton Hills, and kick off the trip with a tasting of bubbles, a regional specialty.
After arriving in the valley, visitors are greeted with a wide selection of large-production well-known brands, alongside smaller family-owned estates with the owner/winemaker leading the tasting room. The list below features a combination of both to cater to different preferences. One of the valley’s many remarkable features is that almost all Barossa cellar doors welcome visitors without appointments unless the group exceeds six people.
If you’re looking for a guided experience within the valley, there are numerous tour options and bespoke experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You can even make your own wine at the famed Penfolds estate.
For those looking to avoid driving and planning, CP Tours and Charters offers a highly-rated luxury door-to-door cellar tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Adelaide.
Alternatively, See Adelaide offers a full day wine tasting trip that includes four wineries not mentioned in the list below, if you’re looking for more options.
Bums on Seats offers a similar full-day tour with funny and engaging tour guides. You’ll cruise through the quaint villages of Lyndoch, Tanunda, and Angaston, stop at five wineries and also make a stop at Maggie Beer Farm (discussed in more detail below). This tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Adelaide or Glenelg.
Finally, one popular option offered by Trail Hopper is a hop-on-hop-off the bus wine region tour, which allows you to travel at your own pace, making stops at up to 12 wineries and eateries along the route. This is a grape way to really immerse yourself in Barossa.
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Nestled in the heart of Australia’s premier wine region, Barossa Valley offers a variety of luxurious accommodations for those seeking a top-notch experience. Here are three of the finest luxury hotels in Barossa Valley that stand out for their unique amenities and proximity to must-visit wineries.
This five-star hotel is a wine lover’s dream, boasting an extensive list of 500 wines and hosting regular wine tastings and experiences. Its 15 spacious and elegantly furnished suites offer guests an immersive and intimate wine country experience. The rooms are equipped with private terraces overlooking the vineyards, and the hotel’s restaurant, Appellation, offers an innovative and delicious regional menu made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
This magnificent 19th-century homestead turned luxury boutique hotel is steeped in history and charm. The Kingsford Homestead property offers seven beautifully appointed rooms, each with a unique style and character. The hotel’s location, just a short drive from some of the region’s top wineries, makes it an ideal base for exploring the valley. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s outdoor pool and spa, indulge in a gourmet meal prepared by the hotel’s private chef, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding.
The Louise’s sister property, this secluded, luxury cottage offers guests the ultimate wine country escape. Set amidst the stunning Seppeltsfield Vineyard, the cottage offers two spacious bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy living room with a fireplace. Guests can relax on the private deck overlooking the vineyards, enjoy a glass of wine by the fire pit, and take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards. The cottage’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the valley’s top wineries, including Seppeltsfield, Henschke, and Yalumba.
Each of these luxurious properties offers an unforgettable experience for guests seeking an immersive and indulgent wine country getaway. From the exceptional wine selections and gourmet cuisine to the unique amenities and prime location near the valley’s top wineries, staying at one of these luxury hotels is sure to be an experience of a lifetime.
The Barossa Valley in Australia is renowned for its warm and Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. During the summer months, which run from December to February, temperatures can soar up to 40°C (104°F), while winters are milder, with average temperatures ranging from 8-16°C (46-61°F).
When visiting the Barossa Valley vineyards, it is important to pack appropriately for the weather conditions. For daytime visits during the summer months, visitors should pack light, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen, and a hat to protect themselves from the sun. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes are also essential. In the evenings, the temperature drops, and visitors should pack a light sweater or jacket to keep themselves warm.
During the winter months, visitors should pack layers of clothing to stay warm during the chilly mornings and evenings. Warm jackets, scarves, and gloves are also recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are still essential.
It is important to note that the Barossa Valley is a casual destination, and there is no need to dress formally. Visitors can wear casual, comfortable clothing during their visit, particularly when visiting the wineries and cellar doors. Peruse the Winetraveler Shop for some of our trending casual vineyard-hopping apparel. Ideal for exploring the vineyards and indulging in the region’s famous wines.
Big wines full of character and sense of place.
Torbreck, a prominent winery since its establishment in 1995, is renowned for producing big, bold wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir. Recently, the winery unveiled a new tasting room and outdoor patio. The airy and inviting tasting room boasts floor-to-ceiling windows offering a stunning view of their vineyard. The winery’s wines command a high price in the market, thanks to a string of high Robert Parker scores. For those who prefer the cult Napa Valley Cabs but are doubtful about Barossa Shiraz, the Laird is a must-try. Other notable highlights include the Woodcutters Semillon and Les Amis Grenache.
A great example of the early days of the wine industry of Australia.
Seppeltsfield, established in 1850, stands as a testament to the early days of the Australian wine industry, steeped in a rich history that draws in visitors from around the world. The estate features several original 1900’s structures, including the family home, which can be toured, providing a glimpse into the past. The recent renovation of the cellar door showcases several remarkable features, such as a large restaurant named Fino, an art center displaying locally made ceramics, artwork, and glass, and a variety of stunning landscape features, including an ornate fountain. When visiting, one should reserve extra time in their schedule to engage with the artists showcasing their creations at Jam Factory.
For those feeling energetic, renting a bike or walking around the surrounding land is highly recommended. It provides an opportunity to witness the stunning vistas while exploring the prized bush vined Terrace Vineyard. As for the tasting experience, visitors are invited to walk in for a complimentary tasting of their current vintage tawny and still wines at the standing cellar door. Alternatively, by booking in advance, visitors can indulge in several tour options, including a private visit to the historic barrel museum, with a chance to taste up to five different 100+ year old tawnies from the barrel. Seppeltsfield offers an immersive experience, perfect for those seeking to explore the region’s rich wine-making heritage.
Side Note: A fascinating piece of history surrounding Barossa Valley is the story of the perfectly planted palm trees that line the roads leading up to Seppeltsfield. It was none other than the Seppelt family who orchestrated this remarkable feat, employing all of their winemaking staff during the Great Depression between 1914-1918 to plant the trees. This not only created a striking visual for visitors to enjoy but also enabled the family to support their hardworking team members during the challenging financial climate of the era. The Seppelt family’s commitment to their staff and the region’s beauty is a testament to their enduring legacy in the Barossa wine industry.
FINO at Seppeltsfield
Great tasting room, very affordable wines.
Tscharke, a renowned winery in Barossa Valley, offers a diverse range of wines for visitors to sample at their complimentary tasting room. The tasting room, located in a charming house, features unique fixtures and offers locally made ceramics for sale, alongside a tranquil outdoor sitting area, ideal for unwinding and taking in the beautiful surroundings.
The winery’s location amidst the rolling hills of Marananga provides a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. It’s recommended to make Tscharke your last stop of the day, as their wines are not as heavy on the palate or wallet. Additionally, the winery offers private tastings, perfect for those seeking an exclusive experience or for groups seeking to elevate their wine-tasting journey. Tscharke’s wines offer a unique expression of the region, showcasing the passion and commitment of the winemakers to their craft.
Old school Barossa Valley Shiraz.
Rockford, a celebrated winery in the Barossa Valley, operates a tiny tasting room that draws in visitors from far and wide, resulting in a long queue that extends throughout the day. For those seeking to avoid the wait, we recommend arriving at the winery a few minutes before 11 am to secure a spot in the tasting room with minimal wait time. Rockford’s storied past dates back to the many great Barossa winemakers who started here, adding to the winery’s reputation and allure. Their most renowned wine, the Rockford Basket Press, a Shiraz made using the traditional basket-pressed technique, has gained widespread adoration among wine enthusiasts in Australia and beyond. A significant proportion of Rockford’s production is allocated to wine club members and cellar door visitors. Due to the winery’s limited production, coupled with high demand, the tasting room is often chaka block all day long, a popular Australian expression meaning packed full. Despite the wait, it is worth the visit, as Rockford offers an exceptional wine-tasting experience that is unforgettable.
Wines for the people, from the people.
Peter Lehmann winery has established itself as a significant player in the wine industry over the past 44 years, with the 2023 vintage marking its 44th anniversary. The winery’s long-standing relationships with growers and winemakers have contributed to its success, even after the passing of Peter Lehmann himself. Casella Brands has done an admirable job of preserving Peter’s legacy and vision of supporting the growers of Barossa Valley. The winery purchases a majority of the grapes it uses from local growers, many of whom have had personal relationships with the Lehmann family for decades. Peter Lehmann wines come at an accessible price point, ranging from $11 to $150 per bottle. Among their highlights is the Barossan, a remarkable expression of the region, aged in American oak for 12 months. Additionally, the winery’s premium line, 8 Songs, offers an exceptional tasting experience, showcasing the winery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Peter Lehmann’s winemaking heritage is reflected in each bottle, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers visiting the Barossa Valley.
Old vines, new wine making techniques.
Established in 1893, Kaesler is a family-owned winery that has undergone a transition of ownership over the years, but has remained committed to producing exceptional wines. The winery is renowned for its experimental wines, including a whole bunch Grenache and a delightful white wine made with the Italian varietal, Garganega. Kaesler’s Cabernet Sauvignons stand out as a personal favorite in the region, offering a unique expression of the terroir. A valuable piece of information for wine enthusiasts is that Kaesler ships to the USA, albeit at a hefty price tag of approximately $200 USD for 12 bottles. However, the winery’s shipping service provides added value, as they are willing to ship bottles from other wineries in addition to their own, creating a seamless experience for wine lovers seeking to explore the region’s diverse offerings. Kaesler’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned it a place among the most celebrated wineries in the Barossa Valley.
Henschke is a winery located in the Eden Valley wine region of Barossa, South Australia. The winery was founded in 1868 by Johann Christian Henschke and has been in the family for six generations. Today, the winery is run by Stephen and Prue Henschke, who continue the family’s tradition of producing exceptional wines.
The winery is best known for its Shiraz wines, which are highly regarded for their complexity, depth of flavor, and age-worthiness. The Hill of Grace Shiraz is the winery’s flagship wine, and it is considered one of the best Shiraz wines in Australia. The Hill of Grace vineyard was first planted in the 1860s and is one of the oldest vineyards in Australia.
In addition to Shiraz, Henschke also produces a range of other wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Semillon. The winery’s wines are all made using traditional winemaking techniques, including hand-harvesting, open-top fermentation, and aging in French oak barrels.
Visitors to the winery can take a guided tour of the historic cellar, which dates back to the 1860s, and sample a selection of the winery’s wines in the tasting room. The winery also has a restaurant, called the Henschke Cellar Door Restaurant, which offers a range of seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
A Barossa Institution for artisan prepared foods.
Maggie Beer, known for producing both wine and food, offers visitors an immersive experience that transcends beyond the typical wine-tasting journey. While the winery’s alcoholic libations are noteworthy, it’s the culinary offerings, sights, and sounds that take center stage. The incorporation of live animals, both caged and wild, adds to the winery’s unique charm, providing a memorable experience for visitors. Maggie Beer’s coffee is not to be missed, and their selection of pate, cheeses, and baked goods offers a delightful selection of provisions for a day of wine-tasting. Maggie Beer’s attention to detail and commitment to using locally sourced ingredients has earned them a place as a noteworthy destination for food and wine enthusiasts alike.
The local favorite.
Nestled between the vineyards in the heart of Barossa Valley, Vintners Bar & Grill is a charming dining destination that is open for both lunch and dinner. The restaurant’s idyllic location surrounded by vines offers a picturesque setting for a memorable dining experience. The presence of local winemakers dining here is a testament to the exceptional quality of the restaurant’s food and service. For wine enthusiasts, Vintners Bar & Grill boasts an impressive wine selection, including reasonably priced wines from Barossa and the old world, providing a diverse range of options to complement the menu. Although the restaurant’s menu is small, it features a well-curated selection of local delicacies that reflect the region’s unique culinary traditions. Visitors are encouraged to book ahead and request a window table for a breathtaking view of the surrounding vineyards.
New kids on the block featuring cheeky wines of bold character.
Founded in 2004 by Ben Chimpan and Toby Yap, Tom Foolery is a small winery that offers exceptional wine quality. Both Chimpan and Yap had previously worked at Rockford Winery as part of the wine-making team before embarking on this venture. Tom Foolery’s dedication to producing seriously good juice has earned it a reputation as a standout among the region’s wineries. The winery’s property boasts plantings of Tempranillo, a Spanish grape that thrives in Barossa’s unique climate, and is a personal favorite of many. The tasting room may be small, but the wine production is even smaller, allowing for a more intimate and personalized tasting experience.
The one-stop shop for Barossa.
Artisans of Barossa is a not-to-be-missed destination for wine enthusiasts visiting Barossa Valley. Featuring a tasting room for five different wineries, including John Duval, Spinifex, and Sons of Eden, as well as a delicious restaurant, Artisans provides a unique opportunity to sample a wide range of exceptional wines all in one location. With lovely outdoor seating and a sprawling lawn perfect for children to run and play, Artisans offers an idyllic setting to relax and unwind. The tasting experience can last for hours, as it feels like stopping at five different cellar doors in one. In addition to the wine, the restaurant serves delectable dishes that provide sustenance after a long day of wine tasting. Artisans of Barossa is the perfect destination to experience the region’s diverse wineries and cuisine all in one place.
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A gastronomic and wine tasting delight.
Arguably the best restaurant in Barossa valley, Hentley Farms is a two-hatted restaurant that utilizes produce sourced from their own garden. Reservations are required, and the meal comes with a hefty degustation price tag. Needless to say, it is worth the price, even if you can’t make it to the restaurant – go for the wine. The cellar door is based in an old sheep shearing shed, with antique accents, the tasting is conducted in what feels like your grandmother’s living room. Wines are quality across the board, especially their Riesling and a side-by-side comparing of the Beauty and Beast Shiraz.
One could spend a lifetime immersed in the wonders of Barossa Valley, learning something new each day. Despite our team haven taken two trips and invested countless hours researching and visiting wineries in the region, there is still an abundance left to discover. Some of our writers have worked as sommeliers in Australia for years, sharing and selling these exceptional wines to guests. Our authors have gained a unique perspective and understanding of Barossa’s most exceptional producers. These journeys have served as a jumping-off point for sharing these remarkable places with others, in the hope that they too may someday experience the magic of Barossa Valley.
Please share your experiences in Barossa with other Winetravelers in the comments! Our Facebook group is also a great place to connect with other like-minded adventurers.
Where is Henschske situated?
Hi Louis, Henschke is located in the Eden Valley sub-region of the Barossa. (Address: 1428 Keyneton Road, Keyneton SA 5353, Australia). You can find it about 20 kilometers northwest of the town of Angaston and about 77 kilometers northeast of the city of Adelaide.