Uncovering the Treasures of McLaren Vale: A Journey Through Its Old Vine Wineries

As the sun dips below the rolling hills of South Australia's renowned McLaren Vale, the vineyards cast long shadows across the landscape, whispering tales of a winemaking legacy that spans generations. This is a region where the roots of the vines run deep, their gnarled trunks a testament to the enduring spirit of the land and the passionate stewards who have nurtured them.

Welcome to the heart of old vine country, where the secrets of the past are distilled into every glass of wine. In this captivating exploration, we'll uncover the stories behind the wineries that have stood the test of time, each one a living, breathing embodiment of the region's rich viticultural heritage.

The Enduring Legacy of Old Vines

McLaren Vale's winemaking history can be traced back to the mid-19th century, when pioneering settlers first recognized the region's exceptional terroir and began planting their vineyards. Over the decades, these vines have weathered the elements, survived phylloxera outbreaks, and witnessed the evolution of winemaking techniques, yet they continue to thrive, producing grapes of unparalleled intensity and complexity.

The term "old vine" typically refers to vines that are at least 35 years old, but in McLaren Vale, you'll find vineyards with centenarian vines, some dating back to the 1880s. These ancient, gnarled plants have developed deep root systems that allow them to draw upon a wealth of nutrients and moisture, resulting in grapes with a concentration of flavors that younger vines simply cannot match.

The Importance of Old Vines

The significance of old vines extends far beyond their visual appeal. These venerable plants offer a unique window into the past, providing winemakers with a direct connection to the region's viticultural heritage. The grapes they yield are often smaller, with thicker skins and higher skin-to-juice ratios, leading to wines with greater intensity, structure, and longevity.

Moreover, old vines are inherently more resilient, having developed natural defenses against pests, diseases, and climatic variations. This resilience translates into a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly approach to winemaking, as growers can often reduce the use of chemical treatments and interventions.

Exploring the Old Vine Wineries of McLaren Vale

As we delve into the world of McLaren Vale's old vine wineries, we'll uncover a tapestry of stories, each one woven with the threads of tradition, innovation, and a deep reverence for the land. From family-owned estates to pioneering producers, these wineries are the custodians of a legacy that continues to captivate wine enthusiasts from around the globe.

Wirra Wirra Vineyards

Established in 1894, Wirra Wirra Vineyards is a true icon of the McLaren Vale region. The winery's founder, Robert Strangways Wigley, was a larger-than-life character who left an indelible mark on the local community. Today, the Wirra Wirra estate is home to some of the oldest Shiraz vines in the region, with some plots dating back to the 1890s.

Under the stewardship of the Hooper family, Wirra Wirra has continued to uphold its reputation for producing exceptional, age-worthy wines. The winery's flagship Shiraz, the Church Block, is a testament to the power and elegance that can be achieved with old vine fruit, showcasing the region's unique terroir and the winemaker's skilled touch.

Clarendon Hills

Clarendon Hills is a true pioneer in the world of old vine winemaking. Established in 1990 by Roman Bratasiuk, a geologist-turned-winemaker, the winery has made it its mission to seek out and preserve some of the region's most historic vineyards.

Bratasiuk's meticulous attention to detail and his unwavering commitment to terroir-driven winemaking have earned Clarendon Hills a reputation for producing some of the most complex and age-worthy wines in the region. The winery's Astralis Syrah, crafted from vines planted in the 1920s, is a true masterpiece, showcasing the depth and elegance that can be achieved with old vine fruit.

Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard

Nestled in the heart of the Clarendon sub-region, Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard is a true testament to the enduring legacy of old vines. The vineyard was first planted in 1971, making it one of the oldest in the area, and it has since become renowned for producing some of the most sought-after Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz in the region.

Under the guidance of the Hickinbotham family, the vineyard has been meticulously maintained, with a focus on sustainable practices that preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem. The resulting wines are a true reflection of the site's unique terroir, with a depth of flavor and complexity that can only be achieved through the patient stewardship of old vines.

Coriole Vineyards

Coriole Vineyards is a family-owned estate that has been at the forefront of McLaren Vale's winemaking scene for over 50 years. Founded in 1967, the winery has a deep respect for the region's viticultural heritage, and this is evident in its commitment to preserving and nurturing some of the oldest vines in the area.

The winery's Lloyd Reserve Shiraz, crafted from vines planted in the 1920s, is a true masterpiece, showcasing the power and elegance that can be achieved with old vine fruit. The wine's complex aromas and flavors, ranging from ripe black fruit to subtle spice and earthy notes, are a testament to the skill and dedication of the Coriole team.

Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future

As we explore the old vine wineries of McLaren Vale, it becomes clear that these producers are not merely custodians of the past, but visionaries who are shaping the future of the region. By championing the unique characteristics of old vine fruit, they are not only preserving the legacy of their predecessors but also inspiring a new generation of winemakers to embrace the rich tapestry of McLaren Vale's viticultural heritage.

Through their commitment to sustainable practices, innovative winemaking techniques, and a deep respect for the land, these wineries are ensuring that the treasures of McLaren Vale will continue to be uncovered and savored for generations to come. So raise a glass to the old vines, for they are the beating heart of this remarkable wine region, a living testament to the enduring power of the vine and the passion of those who tend to it.