The Best McLaren Vale Wineries To Suit Every Taste

With more than 80 cellar doors, the McLaren Vale wine region offers something for every wine lover – from family-friendly cellar doors to boutique tastings.

This wine region has long been at the forefront of cultivating southern Mediterranean varietals that thrive in its warm, coastal climate and each cellar door offers something different for visitors. Here’s our guide to the very best McLaren Vale wineries.

In short

If there’s only time to visit one winery in the McLaren Vale make it the picturesque Down the Rabbit Hole for its versatility – family-friendly, casual meals, restaurant and of course, the wine.

Down the Rabbit Hole

It’s no surprise Down the Rabbit Hole has become an Instagram favourite, with its vast green spaces, flower beds and even a pastel-blue double-decker bus for wine tasting. But the food and wine here are just as impressive. Laze on the grass with grazing boards brimming with brie, cured meats, and local olives, or enjoy homemade wood-fired pizzas, while the kids explore the gardens and maybe meet a resident cat or two.

Address: 233 Binney Road, McLaren Vale, SA 5171

Mollydooker Wines

Good things come in small packages, and Mollydooker is no exception, with crowd-pleasing ‘juicy’ wines that never fail to impress. Order a platter filled with local cheeses and charcuterie, relax on the large deck, and enjoy a sunny day with friends or family – kids are welcome, too.

Address: 23 Coppermine Road, McLaren Vale, South Australia 5171

Beach Road Winery

A laid-back spot to kick back and relax, Beach Road Winery is simple but satisfying. The focus here is on good pizzas and excellent wines, including their signature shiraz and grenache blends. There’s plenty of lawn space for kids, making it a relaxed, family-friendly option with views to match.

Address: 309 Seaview Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171

Chalk Hill Wines

With six generations and 185 years of winemaking under its belt, Chalk Hill has earned its reputation for crafting excellent small-batch wines like fiano, pinot grigio and SBR nero d’avola. The winery continues to evolve, now offering immersive wine tasting experiences, including the immersive Sensory Odyssey that pairs favourite wines with the perfect soundtrack. It’s also now grown to include Never Never Distilling Co. and Cucina di Strada which serves up Italian-style street food.

Address: Chalk Hill Wines, 56 Field St, McLaren Vale SA 5171

Ekhidna Wines

Operating for just two years, Ekhidna Wines has quickly established itself thanks to its stunning location, outstanding wines and acclaimed restaurant. The Branson Road property is framed by vineyards and rolling hills, making it a popular spot for proposals – sometimes even involving a helicopter. The Ekhidna Kitchen earned a chef’s hat this year, with much of the menu’s produce sourced directly from its own gardens.

Address: 67 Branson Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171

Alpha Box and Dice

Known for their cult-following wines, Alpha Box and Dice has a quirky personality and a relaxed, bold vibe. Step into the heritage-listed cellar door to taste their shiraz and vermentino. Wine tasting is free, and their unique ‘Alphabet of Wine’ concept is a must-try on any regional tour.

Address: 8 Olivers Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171

Coriole Vineyards

Perched on Seaview Ridge, Coriole has been pioneering Mediterranean varieties such as sangiovese, fiano, and picpoul since the 1980s. Taste their crisp chenin blanc and dark, fruity nero d’avola, then enjoy lunch at Gather at Coriole, where the menu is seasonal, locally sourced and foraged.

Address: Chaffeys Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171

Wirra Wirra Vineyards

Fans of high-quality red blends like cabernet-shiraz-merlot will love Wirra Wirra . The cellar door, located in historic cellars dating back to 1894, sits among vines and gum trees with ‘Wirra Wirra’ meaning ‘among the gums’ in the Kaurna language. Try the famous Church Block blend and cool-climate Adelaide Hills whites, accompanied by share plates and light meals in the relaxed garden.

Address: 255 Strout Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171

Gemtree Vineyards

A must for organic and biodynamic wine lovers, Gemtree produces grenache brimming with red berries, earthy shiraz and small batch fiano. Their sustainable approach extends to the Tasting Room which was built using recycled materials, is powered by solar panels and uses only rainwater. Shiraz aficionados can take a deep dive into the areas celebrated variety.

Address: 167 Elliot Rd, McLaren Flat SA 5171

Hither & Yon

Housed in a 1860s butcher’s shop, Hither & Yon is intimate, with space for just 14 guests at a time. Enjoy a personal tasting – there is a wide range of wines from chenin blanc to shiraz paired with a cheese board, soaking up the sun outside or cosy up by the fire. Hither & Yon are also one of the first vineyards in South Australia to become Carbon-Neutral certified.

Address: 17 High St, Willunga SA 5172

Samuel’s Gorge

Bordering a national parkland, Samuel’s Gorge sits high on a ridge with views of the Onkaparinga River and out to the ocean. Taste their grenache, shiraz, mourvèdre, graciano and tempranillo in the old stone barn, with breathtaking views all around.

Address: 193, Lot 10 Chaffeys Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171

Willunga 100

Well known for grenache, one of McLaren Vale’s signature varietals, Willunga 100 has won multiple awards. Their Grenache Room provides tastings and educational experiences, immersing visitors in the story of the grape and its connection to the region.

Address: 188 Moritz Rd, Blewitt Springs SA 5171

Lloyd Brothers

Set among a historic olive grove, Lloyd Brothers is a must-visit for wine and olive enthusiasts alike. David and Matthew, third-generation South Australian vignerons, oversee both McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills vineyards. There’s plenty of space for kids to play while adults enjoy a glass of wine and estate platters, with stone-baked pizzas available on weekends.

Address: 69 Warners Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171

Paxton Wines

Leaders in organic and biodynamic winemaking, Paxton is housed in an original 1850s shearing shed surrounded by sprawling lawns. Check their website for information on live music, day discos, long lunches, and intimate hands-on experiences exploring sustainable farming – from the garden to the glass.

Address: Via, Budgens Road, 68 Wheaton Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

The best wineries and cellar doors in the McLaren Vale