South Australia has grown to become one of the trendiest holiday destinations in Australia. Loved for its gorgeous scenery and well-known for its food and wine culture, this part of the world is ideal for dreamy getaways or energetic group trips. From busy day trips to relaxing weekends and more, the charming city of Adelaide and vineyards of South Australia are meant to be enjoyed.
Food and Wine History
The food and wine industry in South Australia has a magnificent and colourful history. While the industry may be young by global standards, forward-thinking wine producers and chefs continue to make their mark on the world scene. The enormous potential of the countryside north of Adelaide was recognised as early as the 1800s, as it had similar geography and climate to France’s famous Rhone Valley.
The wine industry soon began to blossom in the Barossa, McLaren Vale, and nearby Adelaide Hills, with 18 unique and distinguishing regions became well known across South Australia. While the local wine industry was originally inspired by France, the distinct differences of the regions were soon recognised as a feature. As the wine industry matured in South Australia, a rich farming and food culture also leapt into life.
South Australian wine is known for its smooth, new-world flavours, inspired by environmentally conscious production methods and geologically diverse landscapes. With many of Australia’s best chefs moving to wineries and restaurants around Adelaide, the local food and wine scenes inspire and complement each other more and more each season.
Why Visit South Australia for Wine?
Visiting South Australia for winery tours and tastings is a must do for any international visitor. The Australian Grape and Wine Authority is based in Adelaide for a reason. With the favourable climate and environmental purity of the surrounding area helping to guide and inspire an increasingly mature and revolutionary wine industry.
Barossa Valley
The Barossa Valley is the most well-known of all wine-producing regions in South Australia. This area is home to world-renowned Shiraz, grown from some of the oldest vines in the world. Along with some ground-breaking Grenache, Mourvèdre, Semillon, and fortified wines. Most wines produced in the state come from the Barossa and Eden Valleys. With wine tastings available at many wineries throughout the region.
Wine Tastings
Wine tastings are available at world-famous vineyards and cellars across South Australia. The following three wineries have a reputation for distinctive and high-quality wines:
Jacob’s Creek Winery
Located in the heart of the Barossa Valley, Jacob’s Creek is Australia’s major wine producer. This world-famous winery offers over 160 years of winemaking experience, with a number of exceptional reds and whites expressing the character of the local landscape. From dark and broody to sweet and fresh, Jacob’s Creek wines are distinct and versatile.
Saltram Wine Estate
Saltram Wine Estate is a Barossa Valley icon with a long history of winemaking excellence and fabulous taste. Like other wineries in the Barossa, this estate is mostly well known for its deep, smooth reds made from Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Grenache. If you want to treat yourself with wine tastings at the Saltram Cellar Door or visit Salter’s Restaurant. The Saltram Wine Estate is easy to access in the heart of the Barossa at Angaston, South Australia.
Lambert Estate Wines
Lambert Estate combines exceptional wines with unusual characters and varietal expression for a genuine taste of the Barossa. This beloved estate offers multiple wine tasting opportunities and culinary joys.
Why Visit South Australia for Food?
Along with its famous wine culture, South Australia has become known for its exceptional quality produce and top-notch restaurants. South Australia’s climate helps to produce some of the world’s best local ingredients, including fresh seafood, apples, pears, melons, tomatoes, and greens. Therefore when combined with the sophistication of the local wine industry, it’s easy to see why this region attracts some of the top chefs and restaurateurs in the land.
Food Tasting
The food scene in South Australia has really taken off in recent years, both in Adelaide and throughout the surrounding regions. Food and drink always go together, with the wine culture in South Australia acting as a catalyst for top quality produce and fabulous new restaurants. The following three destinations offer unique and delicious food delights:
Maggie Beer Farm Shop
Maggie’s Beer Farm Shop and its restaurant is a wonderful asset for the local region. The Farm Shop offers visitors a chance to taste, eat, and learn as they walk around the renovated Function Centre and enjoy several delicious treats. With incredible products and daily demonstrations, Maggie’s Beer Farm Shop is a great option for people who prefer beer tasting sessions as an alternative to wine tastings. The Farm Shop is located off the A20 near Nuriootpa, just an hour from the centre of Adelaide.
FINO at Seppeltsfield
FINO at Seppeltsfield is an architectural pleasure and memorable dining experience. This restaurant is all about long lunches and a warm dinner atmosphere that reflects the lavish food sharing culture of Italy. The award-winning FINO menu combines authenticity and precision with local produce and a thoughtful wine list. Above all, the team behind FINO believe in the alchemy that happens when you combine quality food and wine with a culture of sharing and love.
Adelaide Central Market
Adelaide Central Market is a great option for people who want to taste fresh produce and local ingredients in a relaxing setting. Formal wine tastings and restaurants are not of interest to everyone, with this market offering a humble introduction to South Australian food culture. You can find a large variety of local produce at the market, from apples and pears through to seafood and organic meats. There are several fabulous restaurants, bars, and food shops operating from this central market, including The Providore, House of Organics, and Le Souk.
Article in partnership with AAT Kings. AAT Kings offers immersive food and wine tours for people who want to explore the many tastes of South Australia. For more information see GrownUps Holidays.
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