The top McLaren Vale breweries and distilleries

Don’t forget to spend a little time discovering McLaren Vale’s growing brewery and distillery scene.

Craft beer and spirits with a local twist are staking a claim for the drink of choice in the McLaren Vale, and visiting the many distilleries and breweries is one of the best things to do in the region.

Follow this guide to discover new and old breweries and distilleries that locals love and are must-stops for visitors who want flavour notes paired with their afternoon tipple.

In short

When choosing one gin tasting stop on a McLaren Vale itinerary, make it Never Never Distillery for its superior masterclasses and convenience to Chalk Hill Wines and Cucina di Strada food.

McLaren Vale breweries

Whether you’re chasing a tropical lager with a view, or a locally brewed ale shared with friends, McLaren Vale serves up a drop for a Sunday session or celebration.

Vale Restaurant and Bar

Address: 128 Ingoldby Rd, McLaren Flat

Vale Brewing’s flagship venue with restaurant, bar and brewery has prime position atop the hills in Blewitt Springs.

Sample their range of lagers or opt for a pomegranate sour to match a sunny weekend arvo visit. The drinks menu also includes a good selection of McLaren Vale reds and gin, vodka and whisky by 23rd Street.

While drinks are front and centre, the venue is also known for its food offering and showcasing South Australian produce. For lighter bites, choose from the snack menu – Coffin Bay oysters or duck croquette with abalone and miso aioli. Or book ahead for dinner and the à-la-carte menu with Port Lincoln flathead and Fleurieu beef – make sure to ask for a prime vineyard view.

Take it to the next level and learn from their expert mixologists in a cocktail or gin blending masterclass.

Swell Brewing Co. Taphouse

Address: 168 Olivers Road McLaren Vale, South Australia

One of the state’s top family-friendly restaurants, Swell Brewing Co. Taphouse is a standout option for glorious afternoons spent with others

Relax with a pint – the Summer Session single hop ale is a fav with its light and refreshing taste – while the kids run free on the lush lawn or hunker down inside (ground floor and upstairs).

The menu delivers a great mix of easy-going pub-style fare like the famous Swell burgers and plenty of kid options.

For beer lovers, brewery tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at how the magic happens and grab a few takeaway cans like the Playa Zicatela Hazy Pale Ale to keep the good vibes going. It’s a weekend favourite, so bookings are highly recommended or arrive early to snag a spot.

Kick Back Brewing

Address: 11 Old Coach Road, Aldinga

Only around since 2021, Kick Back Brewing is one of those places that feels like it’s been part of the community forever. Gather around a share plate inside or settle out the back while the kids run free on the lawn – it’s easy, relaxed and very McLaren Vale.

The tap house brews its craft beer and seltzers on-site, with a core range that includes the popular Anchor Steady IPA, but the real fun is in the ever-changing specials. I’d recommend the ‘choose your own beer adventure’ flight – four tasters of whatever’s pouring fresh.

The food is far from an afterthought, with the kitchen turning out slow-smoked comfort fare made from locally sourced ingredients. Think nacho pork loaded fries, a spicy Nashville chicken burger and crispy fried cauliflower tacos. Check the website for weekday specials and to see what bands are playing out back.

It’s a top pick for families and larger groups (party platters are also available) so it’s worth booking ahead.

Goodieson Brewery

Address: 94 Sand Rd, McLaren Vale

Tucked away from the main tourist trail, Goodieson Brewery is a local favourite and one of the region’s originals, known for its traditional European-style beers. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down and savour a proper craft brew, whether it’s one of Jeff Goodieson’s award-winning classics or a seasonal special like a spiced Christmas ale, floral Maibock or cloudy raspberry wheat beer.

Set beside a creek and surrounded by vineyards, the back deck is a beautiful spot to while away a sunny afternoon, watching birds, sheep, chickens and the occasional kangaroo.

BYO a picnic or check their Instagram to see which food trucks are rolling in. Kids and dogs are welcome, but large groups should book ahead.

Shifty Lizard Brewing Co.

Address: 33 High Street, Willunga

The future looked uncertain for this much-loved Willunga microbrewery when it closed its doors in September 2025, but thanks to a family of Shifty Lizard regulars, the taps are flowing again.

A true local watering hole, the taphouse has an easygoing, social vibe that makes it perfect for a night out with friends. I love settling in over a plate of wings or loaded fries, paired with one of their signature brews – whether it’s the crisp West Coast IPA, the smooth Brewski Easy Ale or a refreshing Old School Lager.

If you’re after something stronger, their small-batch spirits are just as impressive, from the New World Dry Gin to the playful Sweet Pink Gin or the fruity peach and watermelon seltzers. Shifty Lizard is all about good drinks, good company and a guaranteed good time.

McLaren Vale distilleries

With award-winning gins, cocktails infused with native ingredients and single malt whiskeys, these McLaren Vale distilleries are sure to lift your spirits.

The McLaren Vale Distillery

Address: 725 Chapel Hill Rd, Blewitt Springs

A must-visit for spirit lovers — McLaren Vale Distillery is a boutique producer crafting exceptional single malt whiskies, gins, liqueurs and fortified wines.

The team here takes their craft seriously, blending a deep respect for the area’s heritage with an innovative approach that keeps pace with modern tastes. Their small-batch single malts show incredible attention to detail, often matured in casks that once held local wines, while their handcrafted gins and liqueurs showcase the same commitment to quality.

Surrounded by vineyards and natural beauty, the intimate tasting room is an ideal spot to linger over a guided flight or one of their curated cocktails, paired with a cheese or charcuterie board. You can also join a ‘Barley to Bottle’ experience to delve deeper into the distilling process.

Tastings are limited and groups of eight or more should book ahead.

Never Never Distillery

Address: 56 Field St, McLaren Vale

Housed within the Chalk Hill Collective establishment in McLaren Vale, Never Never Distilling Co. has earned its reputation as a must-visit for gin lovers.

With inventive flavours like oyster shell gin – infused with local oyster shells and offering notes of lime leaf, wax flower, sea salt and grapefruit – it’s clear why this distillery attracts the crowds come the weekend.

The Distillery Door experience is as refined as it is fun, with expertly mixed cocktails and beautifully presented tasting flights showcasing their award-winning Triple Juniper Gin and seasonal small-batch releases.

Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about Never Never’s unique three-stage distillation process or join one of their hands-on masterclasses. The Premium Gin Masterclass paired with South Australian oysters and an indulgent Italian street food feast is a standout.

With stunning vineyard views, Chalk Hill Wines next door, and Cucina di Strada serving up Roman-style street food, this is one spot where you’ll want to linger all afternoon – book a table to avoid disappointment.

Down South Distillery

Address: 40 Stonehouse Lane, Aldinga

Set in the former Agostino Wines location, Down South Distillery offers the full McLaren Vale experience – artisan gin flights, handcrafted cocktails and seriously good food, all surrounded by vineyard views.

Run by a passionate family team of distillers, the venue combines rustic charm with a relaxed, elevated atmosphere. Their approach to gin is all about craftsmanship and creativity, with each small-batch spirit designed to tell a story through flavour.

It’s the ideal setting to settle in for an afternoon, pairing a premium gin tasting with wood-oven pizzas (locals swear they’re the best in Aldinga) or freshly prepared seasonal platters. Reservations are recommended – the tables fill fast for good reason.

Settlers Spirits

Address: 58 Osborn Rd, McLaren Vale

The d’Arenberg Cube has a new addition with Settlers Spirits now calling this iconic McLaren Vale landmark home for its Distillery Door .

With 12 varieties to choose from, Settlers delivers one of the most expansive gin experiences in the region, ranging from the citrus-forward Yuzu Gin and tea-infused G & Tea Breakfast Gin to classics like the Rare Dry and the award-winning Old Tom. It’s a tasting journey that caters to every palate – from purists to the adventurous.

Settlers Spirits has long been celebrated for its craftsmanship and innovation, and the Cube setting takes the experience to another level. Tastings are available on Level 3 as a $20 upgrade to your d’Arenberg visit, with two gin flights to choose from.

For something special, book a hosted group experience that includes a guided walk through the Cube’s Alternate Realities Museum before heading upstairs for a private tasting.

The Northern Territory is made for road trips, and this one hits all the highlights.

Craggy mountain ranges, inviting waterholes, ochre soil: the landscape of the Northern Territory is asking to be explored by road and foot. There are many iconic road trips to choose from here, but none so all-encompassing than the roughly 3000 kilometres of sealed road that make up Explorer’s Way.

Spend 14 days (or more, to really make the most of it) driving this route from Adelaide, hitting the NT near the small settlement of Kulgera before later finishing in Darwin. Along the way, you’ll find nearly all the territory’s most iconic sights.

Discover some of the top highlights that make Explorer’s Way one of Australia’s most incredible road trips.

1. Alice Springs

echidna at Alice Springs Desert Park — See the locals at Alice Springs Desert Park. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT)

Recently hitting the big screen again with the story of The Kanagroo Sanctuary , there’s a lot to surprise you in Alice Springs.

Three distinct desert habitats – desert rivers, sand country and woodland – are recreated over 1300 hectares at Alice Springs Desert Park . Time your visit for a presentation or a free bird show.

Later, turn your attention to the skies above, taking a dive into local astronomy at Earth Sanctuary . You’ll find a range of experiences, from a 90-minute toe-dip into the stars through to an overnight adventure.

Alice Springs packs a surprising punch with its tasty dining options, including pub grub and unique brews at Alice Springs Brewing Co , tapas and pizza at Epilogue Lounge and tasty cafe fare at the quirky Page 27 .

2. Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park

woman standing at Ormiston Gorge — Dive into Ormiston Gorge. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom and Jesso)

Beginning 15 minutes from Alice Springs and stretching across 161 kilometres, Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park is packed with striking ancient landscapes and inviting water holes.

Visit Standley Chasm – traditionally known as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning ‘Gap of Water’ – to take in its bold red and orange hues, and to observe the diverse bird species, lizards and wallabies that call it home.

Cool off in one of several picturesque natural swimming holes, like Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge.

3. Uluru & Kata Tjuta

three women looking at Kata Tjuta at sunset — Explore Kata Tjuta. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT)

Visiting the Cultural Heart of Australia is something everybody should experience. There are so many side trips in the Red Centre you could easily spend a week here, but to get the most out of a short time, park the car then get out on foot.

Take the 10-kilometre Base Walk around the entirety of Uluru or join a free, ranger-guided Mala Walk along part of the base, learning about Tjukurpa (creation stories) and geology as you go.

For a change of pace, wait until nightfall and wander through the iconic Field of Light display by celebrated artist Bruce Munro, or see the Wintjiri Wiru lightshow that shares the ancient Mala story using drones, lasers and projections.

4. Tennant Creek

pson looking at Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) northern territory — See the ancient granite boulders of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

Tennant Creek was Australia’s third-largest gold mining town in the 1930s, and visitors can discover that history at Battery Hill Mining Centre – and even try their own hand at gold fossicking.

For a completely different side of history, pop into Nyinkka Nyunyu Art & Culture Centre , which preserves and shares Warumungu culture through art, performance, a museum and more.

Just outside town, find the ancient granite boulders of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). A site integral to important stories held by the Warumungu, Kaytetye, Warlpiri and Alyawarra peoples, the boulders appear to almost have dropped out of the sky and seemingly continue to defy gravity.

5. Mataranka

aerial of people swimming in bitter springs northern territory — Dive into Bitter Springs. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Ben Savage)

A town made famous by the novel We of the Never Never by Jeannie Gunn (and a movie of the same name), Mataranka is also known for its sandy-bottomed thermal pool, Bitter Springs , within Elsey National Park. Follow a 500-metre loop track around these spring-fed pools that stay a toasty 34°C year-round, before choosing your favourite spot to dive into. Enjoy the local birdlife while you relax.

Elsewhere in the park, find historical sites, several scenic walks and Roper River, which is perfect for boating and fishing.

6. Nitmiluk National Park

Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise — Join a sunset cruise with Nabilil Dreaming. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Lachlan Gardiner)

Nitmiluk National Park is sandstone country, with 13 stunning gorges and plenty of waterfalls waiting to be explored.

One of the most beautiful spots can be found along the 62-kilometre Jatbula Trail, a five-to-six day bushwalk that follows an ancient Jawoyn songline from Nitmiluk Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls). Numbers are restricted and book out quickly, so be sure to plan well ahead. Not up for the hike? Drive right up to the falls and enjoy a dip without the challenge.

Elsewhere, explore Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Paddle a kayak through the river running through the canyon, or save your energy on a Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise , discovering the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people while enjoying a candlelit dinner as the cliffs around you shift colour and glow with the changing daylight.

Continue your cultural journey at local art centres like Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Art & Culture Centre or Mimi Aboriginal Art & Craft .

7. Litchfield National Park

cathedral termite mounds in Litchfield national park — Be awed by giant cathedral termite mounds. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

Just over an hour’s drive from Darwin lies the beautiful Litchfield National Park. It’s famous for stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, including Buley Rockhole, Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Tjaynera Falls.

Here you’ll also find hundreds of giant – and magnetic – cathedral termite mounds that are truly a sight to see. Ageing up to 100 years old, you won’t find mounds like these outside the northern parts of Australia. Stroll along the accessible boardwalk to see them up close.

8. Darwin

darwin street art — Darwin art is streets ahead. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Mark Fitzpatrick)

This list wouldn’t be complete without the territory’s capital city: Darwin. Situate yourself upon arrival with a stroll through the main streets, admiring the many art murals by local, interstate and international artists. They’re all remnants of the annual Darwin Street Art Festival , one of Australia’s longest running street art festivals.

Stop to recharge along Darwin’s Waterfront Precinct , an area of delectable restaurants, public swimming pools and free events. And, of course, it would be wrong to leave the city without enjoying a bowl of laksa at Mindil Beach Sunset Market as the sun goes down.

Learn more and start planning your Explorer’s Way road trip at northernterritory.com/drive.

The best breweries and distilleries in the McLaren Vale