Which Grape Varieties Grow in McLaren Vale?

McLaren Vale's Mediterranean climate and diverse soils support an impressive range of grape varieties, making it one of Australia's most versatile wine regions.

Red Grape Varieties

Shiraz - The undisputed king of McLaren Vale, representing approximately 40% of plantings. Produces full-bodied wines with rich dark fruit flavours.

Grenache - Thrives in the warm climate, producing wines ranging from light and fresh to rich and concentrated.

Cabernet Sauvignon - Creates elegant, structured wines with excellent ageing potential.

Sangiovese - Italian variety that has found a perfect home in McLaren Vale's climate.

Tempranillo - Spanish variety gaining popularity for its food-friendly characteristics.

Mourvedre (Mataro) - Traditional variety producing earthy, spicy wines.

Barbera - Another Italian variety showing great promise in the region.

Petit Verdot - Used both for blending and as a varietal wine.

White Grape Varieties

Chardonnay - Produces both traditional buttery styles and modern, crisp expressions.

Sauvignon Blanc - Benefits from coastal influences, creating fresh, zesty wines.

Vermentino - Italian variety perfectly suited to the Mediterranean climate.

Fiano - Ancient Italian grape producing aromatic, age-worthy whites.

Roussanne - Rhône Valley variety creating complex, textured wines.

Viognier - Produces aromatic wines with stone fruit characteristics.

Semillon - Traditional Australian variety, often blended with Sauvignon Blanc.

Emerging Varieties

McLaren Vale continues to experiment with varieties such as:

• Nero d'Avola (Sicilian red)
• Montepulciano (Italian red)
• Arinto (Portuguese white)
• Assyrtiko (Greek white)

This diversity reflects McLaren Vale's innovative spirit and willingness to explore varieties that suit the unique terroir.

Climate Considerations

The region's warm, dry summers and mild winters, moderated by cooling sea breezes from Gulf St Vincent, create ideal conditions for:

• Extended ripening periods
• Retained acidity in white varieties
• Full phenolic development in reds
• Minimal disease pressure

Explore the full spectrum of McLaren Vale varieties at McLaren Vale Cellars, where we showcase both traditional and innovative expressions.