Top Winery Experiences in Australia
post date: 05-26-2023
written by: Rylee Cooper
We’ve handpicked the top winery experiences in Australia that will delight your palate and spark your curiosity. From the rolling hills of the Yarra Valley to the scenic vineyards of the Barossa, our list features the most exceptional wineries that offer much more than just a tasting.
Nestled in the heart of South Australia, the Barossa Valley is a world-renowned wine region that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and, of course, some of the best wine Australia has to offer. Known for producing bold, full-bodied reds, particularly Shiraz, the Barossa Valley has earned a reputation as one of the world’s most significant wine-producing regions.
The region’s unique climate and soil, along with the expertise of local winemakers, contribute to the exceptional quality of wines produced in the Barossa Valley. The Mediterranean climate allows grapes to ripen fully, resulting in rich, complex flavours, while the soil’s limestone content provides natural acidity and minerality.
Visitors to the Barossa Valley can indulge in a range of unique wine-tasting experiences, from casual cellar door tastings to guided tours of vineyards and wineries. With over 150 wineries in the region, each with its own unique history and style, the Barossa Valley truly offers a wine-tasting experience like no other.
At The Tailor, we offer bespoke tours of the Barossa Valley that allow you to discover the region’s rich wine culture in style and comfort. From private tastings with renowned winemakers to helicopter tours of the vineyards, our expert team can tailor a wine-tasting experience that is uniquely suited to your tastes and preferences.
Departing on your very own private plane, you will be transported from Adelaide on a short, scenic flight to the Barossa. Experience Henschke’s Hill of Grace Vinyard, home to some of the world’s oldest vines, and taste a range of distinguished Henschke wines with exclusive access to the famed Hill of Grace Shiraz. From there, travel to the scenic Hutton Vale Farm to indulge in a food and wine tour that highlights the best of both estates, with a combined heritage of over 350 years in the Barossa, and taste flavours quintessential to the region.
Get an exclusive look into the winemaking process at Torbreck, one of the Barossa Valley’s most iconic wineries. Take a behind-the-scenes tour and witness firsthand the meticulous care and attention that goes into crafting their acclaimed wines. Then, participate in a Grenache blending experience where a range of the best vintages are combined for your tasting pleasure. Finally, enjoy a private tasting of some of Torbreck’s most exceptional wines, all while soaking in the stunning scenery of the Barossa Valley.
Indulge in the ultimate wine experience at Seppeltsfield’s Centennial Cellar, with a private tour hosted by an expert wine educator. Explore the longest lineage of single vintage wines in the world, dating back to 1878, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this iconic Barossa winery. Your journey culminates in a tasting of the legendary Para Vintage Tawny, straight from the barrel of your birth year – a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that should be on every wine lover’s bucket list.
Set atop a gentle hill with breathtaking, sun-dappled views across South Australia’s world-renowned Barossa wine region, this luxury lodge offers refreshing and contemporary ambience while celebrating the natural bounty of the region. Guests of The Louise will enjoy world-class food, wine, and luxury combined in an intimate, understated, and informed blend.
The Adelaide Hills is a cool climate wine region located in the picturesque hills east of Adelaide, South Australia. The area is renowned for producing some of Australia’s finest cool climate wines, particularly Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir.
With over 90 wine labels and 50 cellar doors dotted throughout the region, wine lovers are spoilt for choice when it comes to tasting the diverse range of wines on offer. From award-winning boutique wineries to larger, more established names, the Adelaide Hills offers something for everyone.
But it’s not just the wine that makes the Adelaide Hills a must-visit destination for wine lovers. The stunning landscape of rolling hills and valleys, combined with the charming towns and villages, create a delightful experience that is hard to forget.
Delve into the world of wine with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Balhannah winery and vineyard. Led by a specialist guide, you’ll discover the secrets of Shaw + Smith’s winemaking process and explore the stunning surrounds of the vineyard. Then, indulge in a hosted wine flight featuring five of Shaw + Smith’s finest wines, as well as their exclusive single-site releases. Paired perfectly with a South Australian produce plate, this tasting experience is a sensory journey through the flavours and aromas of the Adelaide Hills.
At Deviation Road, you can be a part of the winemaking process by creating your own bottle of sparkling wine. Using the traditional Champenoise method, you’ll have the opportunity to tell the experienced winemakers at Deviation Road how sweet or dry you like your wine, and they’ll add sugar to your specifications before corking the bottle. Once the process is complete, you can take the bottle home with you, knowing that you helped create a truly unique and personalized sparkling wine. It’s an interactive and memorable experience that’s perfect for anyone looking to explore the world of winemaking in a fun and hands-on way.
Magill Estate is home to one of Australia’s most iconic wineries, Penfolds. Located in the Adelaide Hills, the estate has been producing premium wines for over 170 years. The historic winery is a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast, offering a range of tours and experiences that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. The Iconic Penfolds Experience takes you on a journey through the estate’s history and winemaking philosophy, culminating in a tasting of their most prestigious wines, including the legendary Grange. Indulge in a behind-the-scenes tour through the tunnels and barrel room beneath the estate before delighting your tastebuds with a regional feast at Magil Estate Kitchen. For a truly indulgent experience, the Champagne and Caviar Tasting pairs Penfolds’ most celebrated wines with the finest caviar from around the world. It’s an unforgettable experience that’s sure to delight the most discerning palate.
Nestled in the scenic hills of Mount Lofty, Sequoia Lodge offers a unique and luxurious escape for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Surrounded by towering trees and lush gardens, this beautiful retreat is the perfect destination for rest and relaxation. With its thoughtfully decorated rooms, gourmet dining experiences, and stunning views, Sequoia Lodge is the ultimate destination for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate in style.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of wine, a visit to the Adelaide Hills is an experience not to be missed, let The Tailor create an itinerary to suit you.
The McLaren Vale wine region, located south of Adelaide in South Australia, is known for producing some of Australia’s most prestigious red wines. With over 160 vineyards and 70 cellar doors, the region boasts a diverse range of wineries, from family-owned and operated boutique wineries to larger, more established names.
The region’s Mediterranean climate, combined with the unique soil and topography of the area, provides the perfect environment for producing premium wines. Shiraz is the standout variety, with many wineries producing complex, full-bodied examples of this classic Australian red. However, the region is also home to other varieties such as Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay.
But the McLaren Vale region isn’t just about the wine. The area is surrounded by stunning scenery, from the rolling hills and vineyards to the rugged coastline. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the region, stopping at cellar doors along the way to taste the exceptional wines on offer.
A family-owned winery in the heart of McLaren Vale, committed to producing premium, handcrafted wines, Shottesbrooke’s ‘Explore, Wine & Dine’ tour is the ultimate behind-the-scenes experience, including a history of the winery, their sustainability initiatives, and a look at the wine making process. This tour also includes exclusive tastings of their award-winning wines, followed by a regionally inspired lunch at their Currant Shed restaurant. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the winery’s story while enjoying their finest wines and cuisine.
Discover the rich heritage and stunning natural beauty of South Australia’s wine regions with a visit to Oliver’s Taranga in McLaren Vale. As one of Australia’s oldest family-run vineyards, Oliver’s Taranga offers a unique insight into the region’s history and winemaking culture. Indulge in a private and educational tour of our historical vineyard, where you’ll learn about sustainable viticulture practices and winemaking processes while enjoying a glass of their finest wines. With exclusive access to the vineyard, this top-shelf experience is guaranteed to be a highlight of your McLaren Vale visit.
d’Arenberg is a renowned family-owned winery located in the McLaren Vale region of South Australia. Known for its innovative winemaking techniques and unique cellar door experiences, d’Arenberg offers a range of tastings and tours that allow visitors to learn about their history, viticulture, and winemaking process while enjoying some of the finest wines in the region. Here, visitors can blend and bottle their own wine, followed by an eight-course food and wine degustation at the iconic d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant.
Stay in extraordinary style at EOS by SkyCity, one of Adelaide’s most prestigious hotels. With breathtaking views of the city skyline and Adelaide Hills, this 120-room hotel offers guests a five-star experience complete with bespoke amenities and personalised service. Relax in spacious, contemporary rooms designed with comfort and sophistication in mind, or indulge in the hotel’s spa facilities for the ultimate pampering experience. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be treated to the finest in hospitality and comfort, making EOS by SkyCity the perfect destination for your next Adelaide getaway.
For wine lovers, a visit to the McLaren Vale region is an unforgettable experience. The Tailor can help you plan your perfect wine tasting itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your time in this beautiful part of South Australia.
Create an itinerary just for you…
To experience South Australian wine regions to the fullest, reach out to The Tailor – the leaders in Australian luxury travel. Allow them to curate a bespoke travel itinerary fit to your interests that assure you’ll get the most out of this stunning state.
Nestled in the south-west corner of Western Australia lies the world-renowned Margaret River region, known for its premium wines and stunning scenery. Surrounded by the ocean on three sides, this pristine and geographically isolated environment ensures that every wine is special, but none are the same. With sustainability and innovation as the core focus, the region boasts over 200 vineyards and 90 cellar doors.
But it’s not just the wines that make Margaret River so special. Visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty, from rugged coastlines to the towering Karri Forest, or take part in unique experiences such as truffle hunting, whale watching and gourmet food tours. And for those seeking a bit of luxury, there are plenty of high-end accommodation options to choose from.
Embark on an extraordinary sensory journey at Voyager Estate, where wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs are invited to indulge in the epitome of opulence and oenophilic bliss. Nestled amidst lush vineyards and exuding timeless elegance, Voyager Estate beckons with its exquisite selection of wine tastings and immersive experiences. Embark on an estate tour to discover an immersive exploration of their craft and terroir or taste your way through some of the world’s finest chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon in their exclusive wine room. For those keen to spend a day immersed in Voyager Estate, experience their ‘Voyager Unearthed’ tour, joining the sommelier in a relaxed, hands-on look at wine appreciation through the lens of their organic farming and winemaking approach.
Discover the definitive Margaret River experience with the Cape to Vine Tour at Vasse Felix. Explore the breathtaking Margaret River cape, adorned with untouched coastlines, ancient granite boulders, and limestone cliffs. Join the award-winning Cape to Cape Explorer Tours on a captivating walking tour then venture to Vasse Felix, the region’s founding wine estate. Uncover the secrets of winemaking during a private tour and tasting before taking a scenic stroll through the original vineyards, understanding the region’s unique geology and a tasting experience in the historical Vasse Felix museum’s vault. Finally, indulge in the ultimate food and wine pairing experience at the renowned Vasse Felix Restaurant. Savour a five-course tasting menu showcasing local produce, perfectly paired with Icon wines. Immerse yourself in Margaret River’s wonders, heritage, and gastronomic delights at Vasse Felix.
Embark on an enthralling exploration of Leeuwin Estate, where fine wine, food, and the arts converge. Discover the captivating Leeuwin Art Gallery, showcasing a collection of contemporary Australian artworks that grace the winery’s iconic ‘Art Series’ labels before delving into the world of the renowned Leeuwin Concert Series, renowned for alfresco performances by leading musicians and entertainers. Indulge in a tutored tasting of five exquisite Leeuwin Estate wines, perfectly accompanied by West Australian delicacies. Then, experience culinary bliss with a three-course seasonal lunch in the award-winning Leeuwin Restaurant, where each course is thoughtfully paired with the exceptional Art Series wines, enhancing the flavours and creating a harmonious dining experience.
A luxurious boutique hotel situated in the heart of the Margaret River wine region in Western Australia, Cape Lodge is surrounded by lush gardens and scenic countryside. The hotel offers 22 well-appointed rooms. Guests can indulge in the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, which serves gourmet cuisine paired with local wines, or enjoy a wine tasting at the hotel’s cellar door. Cape Lodge also offers a range of experiences, including outdoor activities.
At The Tailor, we can help create a bespoke itinerary to showcase the very best of Margaret River, whether it’s sipping on world-class wines at boutique vineyards, exploring the region’s stunning beaches or indulging in a private chef’s dinner.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Victoria, the Yarra Valley is a wine lover’s paradise. Its picturesque vineyards produce some of the world’s most highly acclaimed wines, including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The terroir of the Yarra Valley, with its fertile soils, cool climate and elevation, is ideal for producing wines of elegance, balance, and finesse. But it’s not just about the wine – the Yarra Valley offers a luxurious escape with gourmet food, award-winning restaurants, and stunning scenery.
Indulge in a private wine tasting, take a hot air balloon ride over the valley at sunrise, or explore the region’s lush forests and winding trails. Get hands-on with grape picking, winemaking and blending workshops. The Yarra Valley truly has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for a weekend escape or a longer stay.
Initially purchased in 1979 as a family retreat, TarraWarra now encompasses 26 hectares of wines in a 400-hectre property. The estate’s stunning art gallery showcases a range of contemporary Australian art, with a rotating collection of exhibitions that feature both established and emerging artists. This allows the unique opportunity for curated experiences in conjunction with the gallery, so art and wine lovers alike can fully appreciate this Vineyard’s history and culture.
A luxurious destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a truly exceptional experience, Levantine Hill’s ‘benchmark’ wine tasting is a highlight, providing a unique opportunity to sample some of the most rare and coveted wines in the world. Led by the estate’s knowledgeable and passionate sommelier, the tasting offers a journey through the world’s most prized wines, each one carefully selected to showcase the unique flavours and aromas of the region’s finest grapes. The experience takes place in the elegant and sophisticated tasting room, surrounded by beautiful views of the vineyards and the valley beyond. And for those seeking a complete sensory experience, the estate’s restaurant offers a range of dining options that perfectly complement the wines.
Dominique Portet is a family-owned winery that offers an authentic and immersive wine experience. Guests are provided with a behind-the-scenes tour of the estate and an opportunity to taste some of the winery’s most exceptional wines. Led by one of Dominique Portet’s experienced wine educators, the tour takes visitors on a journey through the estate’s rich history, spanning ten generations of winemaking legacy. The highlight of the experience is the tutored wine tasting in the André room, perched above the working winery, where guests can enjoy a curated selection of Dominique Portet’s current Yarra Valley releases, including single vineyard wines and the flagship André Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as beautifully aged Portet classics from the family cellar.
An absolutely beautiful winery with the ability to be booked exclusively for complete privacy. Accompanied with native gardens and an intimate dining space, guests can enjoy curated wine tastings in complete privacy where they will sample the entire range of the estate’s wines.
A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Melbourne’s vibrant Southbank precinct, Crown Towers features stunning views of the city skyline and Yarra River, and offers guests unparalleled service and amenities. Each spacious room and suite are elegantly appointed with modern furnishings and state-of-the-art technology, providing guests with the ultimate comfort and convenience. The hotel also offers a range of dining options, including world-class restaurants and bars, as well as a spa, fitness centre, and outdoor pool. Whether you’re in Melbourne for business or leisure, the Crown Towers provides a truly memorable and indulgent experience.
Experience the height of luxury in the heart of Melbourne at the iconic Park Hyatt hotel. This grand and elegant property exudes sophistication, with its classic decor and impeccable service. Each guest room is spacious and beautifully appointed, providing a haven of relaxation and comfort. Indulge in the plethora of dining options surrounding the hotel, with its positioning in the city’s centre providing easy access to the many cafes, restaurants, and bars that make Melbourne an epicurean paradise.
Nestled on the stunning coast of Victoria, the Mornington Peninsula is renowned for producing cool climate wines that are nothing short of extraordinary. Home to more than 200 vineyards, 60 wineries and 50 cellar doors, guests can experience the region’s picturesque scenery, beautiful vineyards, and taste the stunning cool climate wines on bespoke tours through the region.
The Mornington Peninsula is well known for its world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. The wines here are celebrated for their distinct and elegant flavours, which are a result of the region’s unique maritime climate and proximity to Port Phillip Bay. In addition to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the region also produces exceptional Pinot Gris and Shiraz.
The region is also home to a variety of outstanding experiences that cater to all tastes. Guests can enjoy wine tastings at some of Australia’s best cellar doors, dine at award-winning restaurants, explore the rugged coastline, and indulge in luxury spa treatments.
One of the most popular experiences in the Mornington Peninsula is the guided winery tour. This tour gives guests an inside look into the winemaking process, from grape to bottle. Guests can meet the winemakers, walk through the vineyards, and sample the wines straight from the barrel.
Pt. Leo Estate offers a unique blend of world-class wine and art in a breathtaking setting. The estate’s cellar door experience offers visitors a chance to sample the estate’s award-winning wines, crafted from the region’s finest grapes and expertly curated by the estate’s passionate winemakers. But Pt Leo Estate’s offerings go beyond just the wine; the estate’s sculpture park is a must-see attraction, featuring an ever-evolving collection of stunning works from some of the world’s most celebrated contemporary artists. As you wander through the park, you’ll encounter towering sculptures, intimate installations, and breathtaking vistas of the rolling hills and sparkling ocean beyond. Pt Leo Estate is a place where the beauty of art and the passion of winemaking come together, creating an unforgettable experience that is both enriching and inspiring.
A family-owned and operated winery that prides itself on crafting wines of exceptional quality and character. The estate’s cellar door experience offers visitors a chance to sample the estate’s signature cool-climate wines, which are renowned for their complexity and depth of flavour. This stunning winery also offers private barrel tastings, allowing visitors to sample wines straight from the barrel and giving a unique insight into the winemaking process. The intimate experience is led by the winemaker himself, who will guide you through the wines, sharing his expertise and passion for his craft. And with breathtaking views of the rolling hills and the ocean beyond, Ocean Eight is a place where wine, nature, and craftsmanship align in perfect harmony.
Montalto winery offers wine experiences that are both sophisticated and approachable. The estate’s cellar door experience offers a variety of wine tastings, from the signature Montalto range to the exclusive Single Vineyard and Estate labels, allowing visitors to discover the unique flavours and nuances of the region’s finest grapes. Discover the winery behind-the-scenes or indulge in a totally private picnic amongst the vines of the estate’s massive property in the warmer months, basking in the Australian sun on an exclusive tasting journey.
Set on a pristine vineyard property amid the world-renowned Mornington Peninsula wine region, Jackalope Hotel is unique in both destination and design.
Jackalope’s daring emprise, a delicate interplay between the ideal and surreal, is delivered through boldly curated installations and collaborations with some of the world’s principle designers.
With its stunning scenery, award-winning wines, and endless experiences, the Mornington Peninsula is truly a hidden gem of Australia’s wine regions. Our team at The Tailor would love to help you discover the best that the region has to offer and create a tailor-made itinerary that suits your preferences and tastes.
Tasmania is renowned for its cool climate wines, home to over 230 vineyards and 95 cellar doors across the state. These include sparkling wine, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz. The island’s unique terroir, coupled with a cool climate and abundant rainfall, create the perfect environment for winemakers to craft elegant, complex wines with distinctive character.
In addition to tasting exceptional wines, Tasmania’s wine region offers a range of wine-themed experiences that showcase the region’s natural beauty and exceptional food and wine offerings.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, Tasmania’s wine region offers a range of guided tours including walking tours, cycling tours, and luxury food and wine tours. Visitors can also enjoy fine dining experiences, wine and cheese pairing, and guided tastings that provide a unique insight into the region’s wine culture.
Having won best biodynamic wine in the world three times in a row, this Tasmanian winery offers exceptional experiences accompanied by organic wines. The Tuscan-inspired estate takes full advantage of the cascading views down to the Derwent River while a delectable farm-to-table ethos provides guests with a delicious, curated lunch menu that pairs perfectly with their award-winning wines.
Owned and run by MONA creator David Walsh, Domaine A is a uniquely picturesque winery at the edge of the world. With a philosophy to ‘let the fruit do the talking and don’t be afraid to wait’, the vineyard produces exclusive Bordeaux-inspired reds acclaimed as some of the country’s finest – even rivalling the best of Bordeaux. Guests here can be expected to partake in a sensory journey through a brilliantly decorated cellar door and rare and exclusive tasting experience – with Domaine A’s ethos meaning that it can take years between wines for the newest release. The quirky and interesting story behind the winery, accompanied with a fantastic tasting experience and knowledgeable guides make this cellar door one not-to-be-missed in Tasmania.
A 6,100-hectare property home to over 5000 hectares of native forests and wetlands, 35km of coastline and 2,100 hectares of private nature conservation reserves, Bangor Vineyard Shed puts conservation and environmentalism at the core of everything they do. With a split focus on fine wine, fresh local produce and warm rural hospitality, guests can enjoy a unique tasting experience overlooking the picturesque Blackman’s Bay. Meet the vineyard owner and learn about Bangor’s origins, wines and property, all whilst tasting their latest release of wines for a unique insight into their vineyard. For those looking for more, take a helicopter ride over the stunning Tasmanian coast with a picnic hamper prepared by the winery for your sipping and nibbling pleasure along a secluded and private beach.
Nestled in the heart of Tasmania’s breathtaking Freycinet Peninsula, Saffire Freycinet is an exceptional luxury lodge that promises to indulge all your senses. From the awe-inspiring views of Great Oyster Bay to the sumptuous design and decor of the suites and public areas, every element has been carefully crafted to create a unique and unforgettable experience. Guests can explore the surrounding wilderness on guided walks, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, and savour exquisite cuisine made with the freshest local produce. The attention to detail and exceptional service ensure that every guest feels pampered and cared for during their stay.
Contact our team at The Tailor to create a personalised itinerary that allows you to go behind the scenes and discover the best that Australian wine regions have to offer.
Don’t just take our word for it
As pioneers in Australian five-star luxury and experiential travel, we have the accolades to prove our expertise. The Tailor and our Founder and Managing Director, Drew Kluska, have been recognised with prestigious awards, showcasing our dedication to crafting exceptional journeys across Australia.