McLaren Vale Guide

McLaren Vale Cellar Door Tastings: Wine Tours

Discover McLaren Vale's vibrant wine scene with expertly guided cellar door tasting tours, showcasing award-winning Shiraz and more.

18+ tours
From $$75
4-6 hours

McLaren Vale, nestled just south of Adelaide, is a cornerstone of South Australia's wine country, renowned globally for its bold Shiraz. This region offers a truly immersive wine experience, and cellar door tasting tours are the quintessential way to explore its diverse offerings. These aren't just about sampling wine; they're journeys into the heart of winemaking, guided by passionate vintners and knowledgeable hosts. Imagine stepping onto sun-drenched vineyards, learning about the unique terroir that shapes each grape, and understanding the craft that transforms simple fruit into complex, award-winning wines. From historic estates with centuries of tradition to innovative wineries pushing the boundaries of viticulture, McLaren Vale's cellar doors tell a story of dedication and flavour. These guided tours are designed to offer a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the region's best. You can expect to visit multiple wineries, often hand-picked for their exceptional quality, distinctive styles, or breathtaking locations. Many tours include curated tasting flights that showcase the flagship varietals, allowing you to compare different expressions of the same grape or explore the broader spectrum of wines McLaren Vale produces, including Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. Beyond the wine itself, these experiences often delve into the region's rich history, its commitment to sustainability, and the vibrant culinary scene that complements its wines. It's an opportunity to connect with the land, the people, and the passion behind every bottle, making it an essential stop for any wine enthusiast visiting South Australia.

Featured Cellar Door Tastings Tours

Discover our top picks for cellar door tastings in McLaren Vale

Adelaide Highlights, Hahndorf & McLaren Vale Wine Tasting and Sightseeing Tour
From $91.91
Free Cancellation

‘Adelaide Highlights with Wine Tasting and Coast’ is a full day tour featuring some of Adelaide's finest experiences. With several pick-up points around Adelaide CBD this small group day tour offers a wonderful balance of sightseeing and wine tasting and packs a punch as far as must do highlights when visiting Adelaide. City Tour, Mount Lofty Lookout, 2 hours to explore Township of Hahndorf, then off to McLaren Vale to enjoy wine tasting and more sightseeing. Wine tasting at the beautiful Chapel Hill wines and the stunning Haselgrove Wines, photo opportunities and a scenic drive along the coastline with a 15 min stop in seaside suburb of Glenelg. You can choose to stay in Glenelg and watch the sunset, and catch the tram back to Adelaide at your convenience, or jump back on board and head back to Adelaide for drop off.

4.9(365)
8h
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McLaren Vale Small Group Wine Tour
From $132.77
Free Cancellation

Wine Diva Tours is a multi-award winning tour company with over twelve years experience. We operate luxury Mercedes Benz vehicles. We are locally connected and fully accredited McLaren Vale owners. We are the only wine tour that is based in McLaren Vale and our tour guides are all locals. The tour is personalised to suit your tastes and as such the wineries we visit are not decided until we meet our guests. We visit iconic and boutique family owned cellar doors, wineries, microbreweries and gin distilleries all within the McLaren Vale Wine Region. If you wish to visit a specific place you just need to ask and we will try!!!! We can cater for all dietary requirements Our tour agenda is not set and we are flexible to include beer, Willunga Farmers Markets, chocolate, cheese, gin and olives into the offering. You just need to ask. There are no time limits at wineries - it’s all about you! Usually around five cellar doors/wineries are visited in a day.

4.9(130)
7h
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McLaren Vale Winery Small Group Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch
From $166.81

Join a relaxed and unhurried small group tour (maximum 8 ppl) to the beautiful McLaren Vale Wine Region, only 45 minutes south of Adelaide city. Your journey will showcase this spectacular wine region, with rolling hills and vineyards to the southern beaches. Enjoy premium wines from boutique family-owned winegrowers. Savor local gourmet delights on a regional platter lunch.

4.9(314)
8h
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Discover McLaren Vale on eBikes - Full Day
From $61.28
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Our pedal assist electric bikes give you the opportunity to explore the network of bike trails within the McLaren Vale wine region and along the stunning Fleurieu Coastal esplanades. We have a range of eBikes including step-through cruisers, mountain bikes, cargo bikes, trikes, and tuktuks, with options for children and people with mobility limitations. We provide maps and can help you customise your itinerary, with lots of great suggestions such as routes for art lovers, or families with children, or wine connoisseurs, or those who like challenging themselves on the hills.... The region is blessed with more than 70 boutique cellar doors, gin distilleries and micro breweries to drop in on along the way, as well as award winning restaurants, country style bakeries, and seaside cafes. Enjoy the local wildlife and birds as you silently cruise past. There is something for everyone in McLaren Vale.

5.0(20)
5h
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McLaren Vale South Hop-On Hop-Off Winery Tour
From $68.08
Free Cancellation

Discover the beauty of McLaren Vale South on a relaxed hop-on hop-off wine tour, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Departing from Adelaide City or joining in-region, this experience gives you the freedom to choose where to stop, how long to stay, and which venues to visit. Located just 40 minutes south of Adelaide, McLaren Vale South is known for its sweeping coastal views, rolling vineyards, and a mix of historic cellar doors and modern winemaking. The region’s balance of tradition and innovation creates a diverse range of wine styles and welcoming venues, making it an ideal destination for an easy, stress-free day of wine discovery.

4.8(25)
7h
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Wine Tasting in McLaren Vale
From $121.87
Free Cancellation

We take you to enjoy the best exclusive and unique cellar doors in Australia. In a wonderful region, known for its extraordinary vineyards and coastal views. This South Australian gem offers you top wine experiences. You will experience cultural and knowledge exchange. Our love and passion for our business are based on our background and studies, in agricultural, environmental, and biological sciences and it makes the diffrence.

7h
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d'Arenberg McLaren Vale: The Blending Bench
From $74.89
Free Cancellation

One of the most significant wineries in McLaren Vale, d’Arenberg was established in 1912 when Joseph Osborn, a teetotaler and director of Thomas Hardy and Sons, sold his stable of prize winning horses to purchase the property that now houses the winery, cellar door and d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant. Today, fourth generation family member Chester makes distinctive wines using traditional methods both in the vineyard and the winery. With over 60 wines and 25 different grape varieties, you’re sure to find something you’ll love.

4.5(20)
1h 30m
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Wirra Wirra Vineyard McLaren Vale: Winery Tour and Shiraz Masterclass
From $54.47
Free Cancellation

Winery tour and tasting, encompassing a tour of Wirra Wirra's historic cellars, an intimate Shiraz master-class in the original cellar door including a museum tasting, platters from local chocolate artisan Four Winds, plus your chance to ring the historic 3/4 tonne Angelus Bell and hear it peal out across McLaren Vale.

4.8(12)
1h
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Adelaide Hills, Hahndorf and McLaren Vale Tour
From $255.32
Free Cancellation

Touring the Adelaide Hills & McLaren Vale, home of breath taking scenery. There is an abundance of premium, locally crafted food and wine. With over 140 boutique cellar doors in Adelaide Hills & McLaren Vale region. Sit back and relax as we showcase wineries according to your tastes in regional of South Australia.

5.0(2)
6h
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McLaren Vale & Historic Hahndorf Wine Tour
From $200.85
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Visit the iconic d’Arenberg Cube for a look at the Willy Wonka inspired rooms followed by your first wine tastings for the day. Then, head straight to Mollydooker Winery in McLaren Vale for a delightful wine tasting experience. Drive through the beautiful Adelaide Hills as we make our way to Hahndorf for lunch. Enjoy free time in historic Hahndorf to explore and purchase your lunch. Choose from over 40 cafes, pubs and restaurants within a 1km strip on the beautiful main street. Pop into Udder Delights for complimentary cheese tasting. After lunch, visit Beerenberg Strawberry Farm Shop, a sixth generation family owned business, where you will be able to taste their world renowned jams, condiments and products. Our last winery for the day is Sidewood Cellar Door in Hahndorf to enjoy cool climate wine tasting (Age above 18). Final stop is Mount Lofty Summit, Adelaide’s highest peak, to experience a panoramic view of Adelaide. (All the venues are subject to availability)

5.0(3)
8h
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eTukTuk Adventure from Shirvington Wines - McLaren Vale
From $122.55
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Discover the beauty of McLaren Vale on a fun-filled eTukTuk adventure from Shirvington Wines. Start your day at the renowned Shirvington cellar door before embarking on a self-guided journey along the scenic Shiraz Trail. Navigate past picturesque vineyards and open countryside at your own pace. Drop into a cellar door (or two) or find a picturesque spot to enjoy a picnic. Ideal for couples, friends, or families seeking a unique wine country experience. Included - Self-drive eTukTuk - Maps and route suggestions - Exploring the scenic Shiraz Trail at your own pace

5.0(2)
4h 30m
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McLaren Vale Private Wine Tour
From $161.7
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Traverse the landscapes as you make your way to the renowned McLaren Vale wine region, situated 40km (around 45min) from Adelaide. Delve into the rich history of wine production in the region, celebrated as one of the Great Wine Capitals of the World. Indulge your senses with visits to a selection of esteemed cellar doors, where you'll have the opportunity to savor an array of exquisite wines* (own cost) . McLaren Vale is esteemed for its robust red wines, particularly those crafted from Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Grenache grapes. Explore the diverse palette of Mediterranean grape varieties, including Mourvedre, Tempranillo, Nero d'Avola, and Sangiovese. Delight in the refreshing flavors of white wine varieties such as Fiano, Vermentino, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne etc. Consider adding a visit to a gin distillery or brewery to diversify your tour experience. At the conclusion of your tour, we'll ensure your safe return to your Adelaide accommodation taking around 45~60min.

6h
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McLaren Vale Private Wine Tour
From $238.3
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

With this luxury wine tour you'll spend a day exploring some of McLaren Vales iconic and boutique cellar doors and wineries. You'll escape suburbia during the 50 minute trip to the region driving through quaint country towns and rolling vineyards. Once in McLaren Vale you can visit The d’Arenberg Cube - a newly built construction shaped like a Rubiks Cube and complete your visit there with a tasting of the fabulous range of wines. We have a flexible itinerary and you may find yourself tasting wine direct from the barrel with a winemaker, and checking out the winery and barrel room! (subject to availability)

5.0(19)
7h
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Full Day Wine Tasting Tour in McLaren Vale
From $162.72
Free Cancellation

A fantastic day exploring Adelaide's beautiful McLaren Vale wine region where you will enjoy wine tastings from some of the most popular cellar doors and local produce that this region is known for. Nestled amidst rolling green hills and vineyards that stretch on forever, is the home of some of the best cellar doors in Australia, and the world. McLaren Vale is the jewel in the crown of the Fleurieu Peninsula and overflows with exceptional food and wine opportunities. On this tour, our experienced guide will take you through the ever-changing Adelaide Hills heading south to McLaren Vale. 3-4 wineries to go to. Likewise your lunch destination to our chosen venue – your driver will give you some food options for meal of the day. It is a group tour, totally a shared experience and numbers can reach up to 30 in a day and can be accommodated in a car, minibus, and bus/coach.

3.0(2)
8h
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Wine Tasting and Lunch Private Tour in McLaren Vale
From $169.53
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Get tipsy on this full-day McLaren Vale Wine Tasting and Lunch tour. This is a private tour tailored just for you and your friends. Taste your way through South Australia’s beautiful McLaren Vale Wine Region where you’ll get to experience world-class wineries in relaxed cellar door settings. This tour includes wine tastings at two local wineries and a shared platter for lunch at a winery. Just 45 minutes south of Adelaide, McLaren Vale is also the go-to-place for boutique breweries and distilleries. In the afternoon, we provide a flexible itinerary so that you can choose your own adventure. If you’re not tipsy enough, you may want to explore a winery, brewery, or gin distillery - the choice is yours! Come and experience McLaren Vale with us. See you soon!

5.0(6)
6h
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Why Choose Cellar Door Tastings in McLaren Vale?

World-Class Shiraz

McLaren Vale is celebrated for its exceptional Shiraz, and these tours offer direct access to taste this iconic varietal at its source.

Diverse Wineries

Explore a range of cellar doors, from historic family-owned estates to cutting-edge, modern wineries, each with a unique story and style.

Stunning Scenery

Enjoy breathtaking views of rolling vineyards, olive groves, and the picturesque coastline as you travel between tasting locations.

Gourmet Pairings

Many tours include opportunities to sample local produce and artisanal cheeses, perfectly complementing the region's fine wines.

Convenient Transport

Leave the driving to experienced guides, allowing you to fully relax and savour the wine and scenery without any concerns.

Expert Insights

Gain a deeper understanding of winemaking techniques, grape varietals, and the McLaren Vale terroir from knowledgeable guides and winemakers.

Types of Cellar Door Tastings in McLaren Vale

Small Group Wine Tours

Experience the intimacy of a small group, often no more than 10-12 people, allowing for personalized attention and interaction at each winery. These tours focus on curated tasting experiences and often include visits to boutique or hard-to-reach cellar doors.

Limited group sizePersonalized serviceWinery history insightsDirect interaction with staffOften includes snacks

Private McLaren Vale Wine Experiences

For a bespoke and exclusive journey, private tours cater to your specific interests. You can customize the itinerary, choose the wineries you wish to visit, and enjoy a highly flexible schedule. Perfect for special occasions or groups seeking a tailored adventure.

Customizable itineraryFlexible timingExclusive accessPrivate driver/guideIdeal for celebrations

Wine and Food Pairing Tours

Delve into the synergy between food and wine. These tours go beyond simple tastings, incorporating dedicated food pairings, often featuring local cheeses, charcuterie, or even multi-course luncheons at winery restaurants. It’s a culinary exploration alongside wine discovery.

Artisanal cheese tastingsLocal produce samplingGourmet lunch optionsUnderstanding food-wine harmonyCulinary focus

Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Shuttles

Offering a degree of independence, these services allow you to create your own tasting route by hopping on and off a designated shuttle at various wineries. While less guided than other options, they provide flexibility and a budget-friendly way to explore at your own pace.

Flexible scheduleVisit multiple wineriesCost-effectiveSelf-guided explorationDefined routes

What to Expect on McLaren Vale Cellar Door Tastings Tours

Duration

Most cellar door tasting tours in McLaren Vale typically range from 4 to 6 hours, allowing ample time to visit several wineries and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

Weather

McLaren Vale enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Tours operate year-round, but expect warm to hot summers (Dec-Feb) and mild, pleasant winters (Jun-Aug). Casual, comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended.

Group Size

Group sizes vary significantly. Small group tours often have 10-12 participants, while private tours are exclusive to your party. Some hop-on hop-off services can involve larger numbers of independent travelers.

What's Included

Tours generally include tastings at a set number of wineries, transportation to and from your pickup point, and the services of a guide. Some may include light snacks, while food-pairing tours will explicitly include meals or substantial grazing platters.

Meeting Point

Pickup points are typically arranged from central Adelaide locations or sometimes from accommodations within McLaren Vale itself. Specific meeting instructions will be provided upon booking.

Costs

Prices for McLaren Vale cellar door tours generally start from around $75 USD per person for group tours and can range upwards of $300+ USD for private, fully customized experiences. Tasting fees might be extra at some boutique wineries, though many tours bundle them.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book in advance, especially for popular wineries and during peak season, as tasting slots can fill up quickly.

2

Consider the time of year; spring (September-November) offers beautiful vineyard blooms, while autumn (March-May) is harvest season.

3

Don't be afraid to spit out wine during tastings if you want to fully appreciate each sample without overconsumption.

4

Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water between wineries, especially during warmer months.

5

Wear comfortable shoes, as you might be walking on uneven terrain in vineyards or winery grounds.

6

Inform your tour operator of any dietary restrictions or allergies well in advance, particularly if your tour includes food pairings.

7

Have a look at the wineries on the tour itinerary beforehand; researching their signature wines can enhance your tasting experience.

8

Consider purchasing a bottle or two of your favourite wine to take home; many wineries offer shipping options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What are the signature wines of McLaren Vale?

A: McLaren Vale is most famous for its rich and full-bodied Shiraz. However, it also produces outstanding examples of Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. Many tours will highlight these varietals during their tastings.

Q:Do I need to book tasting slots in advance?

A: For guided tours, your tour operator usually handles the booking of tasting slots for you. If you plan to visit wineries independently, it's highly recommended to book tasting appointments, especially on weekends and during busy periods.

Q:Are tasting fees included in the tour price?

A: This varies by tour. Most group tour prices include standard tasting fees at the planned wineries. However, some tours might have optional premium tastings or specific boutique wineries where an additional fee may apply. Always check the tour inclusions.

Q:Can I buy wine directly from the cellar doors?

A: Absolutely! Cellar doors are designed for direct sales. If you find a wine you love, you'll have the opportunity to purchase it there. Many wineries can also arrange for shipping to your home address.

Q:What should I wear on a wine tour?

A: Comfort is key. Opt for comfortable, casual clothing and sensible shoes suitable for walking on vineyard paths or winery floors. Layers are a good idea as the weather can change. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses) is essential in summer.

Q:How much wine will I taste on a typical tour?

A: You'll typically taste between 4 to 6 wines at each of the 3-4 wineries visited on a standard tour. This allows you to experience a range of styles without overindulging. Remember, spitting is perfectly acceptable if you want to pace yourself.

Q:Are these tours suitable for non-drinkers?

A: While wine tasting is the focus, many wineries offer non-alcoholic alternatives like grape juice or sparkling water. It's best to check with the tour operator beforehand if you have non-drinkers in your party to ensure they will be accommodated.

Q:What if I have a specific winery in mind that isn't on a standard tour?

A: If you have particular wineries you wish to visit, a private tour is your best option. You can work with the tour operator to craft an itinerary that includes your desired destinations, ensuring a truly personalized experience.

Don't Miss the Perfect McLaren Vale Experience

Book your cellar door tastings today - 18+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit McLaren Vale?

Savour world-class Shiraz and Grenache from McLaren Vale's sun-drenched vineyards.

Experience the vibrant culinary scene, farm-to-table dining, and artisan producers.

Discover stunning coastal drives and pristine beaches just moments from wine country.

Explore the rich agricultural heritage and pioneering spirit of South Australia.

Enjoy laid-back cellar door experiences, often hosted by the winemakers themselves.

Immerse yourself in the relaxed rhythm of life in this picturesque wine region.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

McLaren Vale enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summers are typically sunny and hot, ideal for al fresco dining and exploring vineyards. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the vines and pleasant temperatures, while spring offers blooming flora and a refreshing atmosphere.

Best Months

The shoulder seasons of autumn, specifically March to May, and spring, from September to November, are often considered the best months to visit McLaren Vale due to comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

Peak Season

Peak season generally falls during the warmer summer months, from December to February. Expect hot, sunny days perfect for enjoying the outdoors, though crowds can be larger and prices for accommodation may be higher.

Off Season

The winter months, from June to August, represent the off-season. While cooler and wetter, this time offers a peaceful atmosphere, lower prices, and the chance to enjoy cosy cellar door experiences by the fire.

Plan Your McLaren Vale Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around McLaren Vale is best done with your own wheels, whether that's a rental car or your own vehicle, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Many visitors opt for organised wine tours, which take the stress out of driving between cellar doors and offer expert commentary. For shorter distances or a more relaxed approach, consider hiring bicycles to cycle between nearby wineries. Ride-sharing services are available but can be less reliable in more remote parts of the region, so planning ahead is key.

Car Rental Deals in McLaren Vale

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Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your McLaren Vale adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in McLaren Vale

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