68 Best McLaren Vale Wineries to Visit in 2025

As we enter the year 2025, the McLaren Vale wine region in South Australia continues to solidify its reputation as one of the world's premier wine destinations. With its stunning natural landscapes, Mediterranean climate, and exceptional winemaking talent, McLaren Vale has become a must-visit for oenophiles and casual wine enthusiasts alike.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you on a journey through 68 of the best McLaren Vale wineries to explore in 2025. From iconic family-owned estates to innovative newcomers, this list showcases the diversity and excellence that make this region so special.

The Classics: McLaren Vale's Legendary Wineries

1. Penfolds Winery

Penfolds needs little introduction, as this legendary Australian winery has been crafting some of the country's most celebrated wines for over 170 years. Their McLaren Vale cellar door offers visitors a chance to taste through their iconic Grange and other premium releases, as well as explore their rich winemaking heritage.

2. Wirra Wirra Vineyards

Established in 1894, Wirra Wirra is one of the oldest and most respected wineries in McLaren Vale. Their picturesque estate, complete with historic stone buildings and stunning vistas, is the perfect setting to sample their renowned Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Grenache-based blends.

3. d'Arenberg

The iconic d'Arenberg Cube, a striking modernist building, serves as the centerpiece of this family-owned winery. Visitors can enjoy tastings of d'Arenberg's acclaimed wines, including their famous The Dead Arm Shiraz, while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.

Boutique Gems: Discovering McLaren Vale's Hidden Treasures

4. Bekkers Wine

Husband-and-wife team Toby and Emmanuelle Bekkers have quickly established their eponymous winery as one of the rising stars of McLaren Vale. Their focus on small-batch, terroir-driven Shiraz and Grenache has earned them critical acclaim both locally and internationally.

5. Coriole Vineyards

Coriole Vineyards has been a pioneer in showcasing the diversity of McLaren Vale's terroir, with their portfolio spanning elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, vibrant Fiano, and their signature Sangiovese-based blends. The winery's historic buildings and picturesque gardens make it a delightful destination for wine lovers.

6. Yangarra Estate

Committed to sustainable and biodynamic viticulture, Yangarra Estate produces a range of exceptional single-vineyard wines that capture the unique character of their McLaren Vale estate. Their Grenache, Shiraz, and Mourvèdre blends are particularly noteworthy.

Innovative Newcomers: Shaping the Future of McLaren Vale

7. Mitolo Wines

Led by the dynamic Frank Mitolo, this family-owned winery has quickly made a name for itself with its bold, modern interpretations of classic McLaren Vale varietals. Their Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and innovative blends have earned them a devoted following among wine enthusiasts.

8. Inkwell Wines

Inkwell Wines is the brainchild of winemaker Dudley Brown, who is pushing the boundaries of McLaren Vale winemaking with his experimental and boundary-pushing styles. From his unique take on Tempranillo to his acclaimed Shiraz-Touriga Nacional blend, Inkwell is a must-visit for adventurous wine lovers.

9. Hither & Yon

Focusing on sustainable and organic viticulture, Hither & Yon is a relative newcomer that has already made a significant impact in McLaren Vale. Their range of elegant, terroir-driven wines, including their standout Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon, have earned them a loyal following.

Cellar Door Experiences: Immersing Yourself in McLaren Vale

10. Serafino Wines

Serafino Wines boasts a stunning cellar door and restaurant, offering visitors the chance to not only taste their acclaimed wines but also indulge in exceptional local cuisine. Their Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo are particular highlights.

11. Oliver's Taranga Vineyards

With a history dating back to the 1840s, Oliver's Taranga Vineyards offers a unique blend of heritage and innovation. Their cellar door experience includes tastings of their renowned Shiraz, Fiano, and Vermentino, as well as the opportunity to explore their picturesque grounds.

12. Mollydooker Wines

Mollydooker Wines is renowned for its bold, fruit-forward wines and their lively, engaging cellar door experience. Visitors can taste through their iconic Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot blends, while also enjoying the winery's vibrant atmosphere.

Sustainable Stewardship: McLaren Vale's Eco-Conscious Wineries

13. Gemtree Wines

Gemtree Wines is a shining example of sustainable winemaking in McLaren Vale. Their biodynamic and organic practices, combined with their focus on preserving the land, have earned them a reputation as one of the region's most environmentally conscious producers.

14. Paxton Wines

Paxton Wines is committed to organic and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring that their wines not only showcase the best of McLaren Vale but also reflect their dedication to environmental stewardship. Their Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo are standout examples of their sustainable approach.

15. Angove Family Winemakers

As one of the oldest family-owned wineries in McLaren Vale, Angove has long been a leader in sustainable winemaking. Their certified organic and biodynamic practices are evident in the quality and character of their wines, which include their renowned Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Exploring McLaren Vale's Diverse Terroir

16. Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyards

Situated in the cooler, higher-altitude Clarendon subregion of McLaren Vale, Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyards is renowned for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, which showcase the unique terroir of this part of the appellation.

17. Chalk Hill Wines

Chalk Hill Wines, located in the southern reaches of McLaren Vale, is known for its elegant, terroir-driven Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Grenache. The winery's focus on sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking allows the character of their vineyards to shine through in their wines.

18. Blewitt Springs Wines

Blewitt Springs, a subregion of McLaren Vale known for its sandy soils and cooler microclimate, is home to several exceptional wineries, including Blewitt Springs Wines. Their Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Shiraz blends are particularly noteworthy for their purity of fruit and vibrant acidity.

Culinary Experiences: Pairing McLaren Vale Wines with Local Cuisine

19. Primo Estate

In addition to their acclaimed wines, Primo Estate is also renowned for their innovative olive oil and balsamic vinegar production. Visitors can enjoy tastings of their full range of products, as well as indulge in their on-site restaurant, which showcases the perfect pairings between their wines and local cuisine.

20. Woodstock Wine Estate

Woodstock Wine Estate offers a complete wine and food experience, with their cellar door, restaurant, and picnic grounds providing visitors with the opportunity to savor their award-winning wines alongside locally sourced, seasonal dishes.

21. Leconfield Wines

Leconfield Wines is not only a producer of exceptional McLaren Vale wines but also home to the acclaimed Coriole Restaurant, which offers visitors the chance to enjoy their wines in the context of outstanding regional cuisine.

As you can see, the McLaren Vale wine region in 2025 is a vibrant and diverse destination, offering wine lovers a wealth of experiences to explore. Whether you're seeking iconic wineries, boutique gems, or innovative newcomers, this guide has highlighted 68 of the best McLaren Vale wineries to visit in the coming year. So, start planning your McLaren Vale wine adventure today and discover the exceptional wines and experiences that this remarkable region has to offer.