The Coonawarra Wineries & Cellar Doors You Need To Visit

It’s hard to go past a destination devoted to cabernet sauvignon, shiraz and other bold reds, but the very best Coonawarra wineries also sweeten the deal with fireside feasts and produce platters aplenty.

If you know wine, you know the numbers: take a 20-kilometre-long, two-kilometre-wide Limestone Coast stretch teeming with wineries, and make it home to over 25 cellar doors – many of them devoted to showcasing the region’s celebrated reds, cabernet sauvignon and shiraz in particular.

Prefer a dry white, or perhaps even a sparkling? It’s worth noting that Coonawarra isn’t only about reds, a new generation of winemakers working tirelessly to reenergise the region with new and innovative winemaking styles and alternative grape varieties.

Of course, Coonawarra wineries offer a wealth of experiences far beyond a quick quaff; you could enjoy a gourmet picnic nestled within a vineyard, feast fireside on a gourmet platter, and/or glamp under a blanket of stars.

Be sure to add the following to your Coonawarra experience.

Wynns Coonawarra Estate

Founded by Scottish pioneer John Riddoch who planted vineyards in 1891 – making this one of the region’s longest established vineyard sites, every visit to Coonawarra should begin here at Wynns Coonawarra Estate where each drop is produced under the wizardry of winemaker Sue Hodder.

Many keep their eyes peeled for the label’s two flagship reds – John Riddock Cabernet Sauvignon and Michael Shiraz, but a visit to Wynns cannot be a quick dash in and out. Leave time to walk around the onsite interpretive centre detailing the history of the vineyard and winemaking within the region, and say yes to a tasting of up to six wines from the Wynns Premium Collection, which includes the iconic Wynns Black Label and modern Wynns V&A wines. Priced at $30, redeemable on purchase.

A ‘Make Your Own Blend’ tour experience is also available.

people dining in the al fresco area of Wynns Coonawarra Estate — Leave time to enjoy the grounds. (Image: Ewen Bell)

Address: 77 Memorial Drive, Coonawarra; (08) 8736 2225

Patrick of Coonawarra

Behold the ultimate family operation, a second-generation winery that’s a celebration of everything founder Patrick Tocaciu stood for. Opened in 2004 with the release of their 1998 Home Block Cabernet, 2001 Shiraz and 2003 Riesling, the cellar door for Patrick of Coonawarra now welcomes groups to enjoy not only their wines, but produce platters (best enjoyed on the lawn), as well as tastings as wide-ranging as ‘Crickets and Cabernet’ – essentially a platter which has all manner of insects including ant candy and crunchy crickets – as well as a more classic chocolate and wine pairing ($25 each). Indoor seating where the opportunity to buy much of the produce available on the platters ($50 including two glasses of wine) is always recommended, but it’s hard to beat taking time out in their Eco Gardens, planted with indigenous species native to the area.

The five-star rated winery (James Halliday), is noted for its premium Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon.

Address: 15598 Riddoch Hwy, Coonawarra; (08) 8737 3687

Zema Estate

The first few minutes at Zema Estate can feel strangely discombobulating; you’re walking on that rich Coonawarra terra rossa, yet you’re also somehow in Italy at the same time. There’s good reason for this of course; this generations-old family winery which has a solid reputation for delivering premium quality Coonawarra cabernet sauvignon and shiraz, harks back to the traditions – and passions – of its Italian heritage.

It’s possible to visit the Cellar Door overlooking the hand-pruned vines only to enjoy a complimentary tasting of Zema Estate’s current release wines, but it would be foolish to miss checking out the family photos, or shopping the large selection of gourmet food and gifts, including Mrs Zema’s homemade chilli paste and olive oil.

wine and cheese platter at Zema Estate — Build a take-home produce platter featuring Mrs Zema’s homemade chilli paste and olive oil. (Image: Zema Estate)

Address: 14944 Riddoch Highway, Coonawarra; (08) 8736 3219

Penley Estate

Look, no man is an island and while you wouldn’t necessarily visit Penley Estate – one of the region’s leading wineries – for a single person, we can’t help but point out that the winery’s Kate Goodman has recently nabbed Wine Companion’s Winemaker of the Year 2024 award.

It might be a recent award, but Penley Estate has been making premium wine since 1988 and specialising in producing classic Coonawarra reds, be it cabernet, shiraz or red blends. Best of all, Penley Estate wines are truly estate-grown and registered by The Vegan Society.

grapes grown at Penley Estate — The award-winning wines are all estate-grown and registered by The Vegan Society. (Image: Stephen Carter)

Top tip? Come in for a taste but stay for a picnic on the lawn.

Address: McLeans Road, Coonawarra; (08) 7078 1853

Rymill

Wine critics have long described Rymill as one of the ‘must visit’ stops at Coonawarra with good reason. While the iconic Stallions Rampant statue embodies the strength of the wines, this high-tech winery – born in the 1970s and launched by Peter Rymill, the great-grandson of John Riddock (essentially the founder of Coonawarra) – is all about providing the perfect experience as much as serving up the perfect wine.

Rymill winery and cellar door sit nestled within their vineyards, with the latter offering an inside look at viticulture and winemaking from their multi-level observation decks.

wine bottles on display inside Rymill, Glenroy — The cellar door doubles as an art gallery. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Enjoy a Classic Cellar Door Tasting ($10 but redeemable upon purchase) featuring their classics – some of which are exclusive to the cellar door. Why not match it with a custom platter of South Australian produce? Your feast can be enjoyed either while browsing the art gallery inside, or while you sit outside on the picturesque lawns.

a couple wine tasting inside Rymill, Glenroy — Sample wines that are only available onsite. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 110 Clayfield Road, Glenroy; (08) 8736 5001

Brand’s Laira

Sometimes you need more than a holiday, you need an experience that takes you back in time some 130 years. Turning up to iconic winery, Brand’s Laira, provides that sensation, opening the door to generations of Coonawarra history which begins in 1893 when Captain Henry Stentiford bought a block of land and named the estate ‘Laira’ after his ship.

Brand’s Laira has a rich history that stretches back over 130 years. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone)

What happened next? You’ll have every opportunity to find out once you drop by Brand’s Laira’s newly renovated Cellar Door to try their award-winning wines and Cellar Door exclusives.

Pick from an array of award-winning wines at the newly renovated Cellar Door. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone)

Featuring a modern indoor dining area, a beautiful al fresco area and yes, a lounge with fireplace for those wintry days, there’s no better place to take part in a guided wine tasting ($5 but redeemable on purchase).

Partake in a guided wine tasting at Brand’s Laira. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone)

Address: 14860 Riddoch Hwy, Coonawarra; (08) 8736 3260

DiGiorgio Family Wines

Want more from your winery visit than a lazy afternoon of (quality) quaffing? DiGiorgio Family Wines , a small family-owned and operated winery, which also happens to be the second oldest in the region, has got you covered.

Visiting the cellar door not only gives you the opportunity to taste premium wines from their extensive portfolio (the DiGiorgio family produces premium wines from Coonawarra and Lucindale, but also sources specific varietal fruit from different areas of the Limestone Coast) but you can book in for a tour and private tasting, enjoy a glass of wine alongside a ‘Pick your own produce’ platter or lock in a pasta making (and eating) session.

Aerial view of di Giorgio winery in Coonawarra — The cellar door opens onto an expansive grassed area.

Address: Riddoch Hwy, Coonawarra; (08) 8736 3222

Cuvée-Co Wines

Will it be a prosecco or a sparkling shiraz? Peta Baverstock, the name behind Cuvée-Co Wines , has spent decades focusing on the appreciation, making and branding of sparkling wine.

Located in Penola’s old Post Office, a wonderland teeming with all manner of quirky gift ideas, there’s every chance you’ll pop in for a tasting – or to pick up a bottle of Ivy Elliot Non Vintage Rose – but you’ll end up walking away with a suitcase full of goodies.

Address:46 Riddoch Street, Penola; 0412 561 931

Do the Coonawarra Wine Trail

Remember that the cellar door experiences are only a short walk from each other, so download the Coonawarra Wineries Walking Trail app to follow the trail between six of the region’s wineries by foot.

The five-kilometre walk will take in: Brand’s Laira, DiGorgio Family Wines, Ottelia, Redman Wines, Wynns and Zema Estate.

Call in the experts at Coonawarra Experiences

Of course, if you’d prefer a curated experience featuring behind-the-scenes access to Coonawarra’s top wineries, exclusive wine tastings, gourmet lunches with local produce, and air-conditioned transport between each stop, let Coonawarra Experiences be your go-to for the ultimate hosted journey.

Whether you’re after a half-day tour including lunch, a full-day tour or a multi-day adventure, the team can create a bespoke itinerary based on your interests.

Explore more of the Limestone Coast from Mount Gambier’s sinkholes and lakes to Robe’s coastal delights.

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .

A hit list of Coonawarra wineries and cellar doors to visit