Adelaide Hills Wine Region. Best Wineries to Visit in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia
The Adelaide Hills wine region, located in the Mount Lofty Ranges just east of Adelaide, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and exceptional cool-climate wines. Stretching approximately 70 kilometers, the region's vineyards are nestled at elevations between 400 and 600 meters, creating diverse microclimates ideal for varieties like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. A highlight of the area is Hahndorf, Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, established in 1839. This charming town offers visitors a rich blend of history, German-inspired architecture, and a bustling main street filled with artisanal shops, cafes, and eateries. Find out about the Adelaide Hills Wine Region.
Trail Hopper wine tours make exploring the Adelaide Hills easy and stress-free. It’s a hop-on, hop-off wine tour, meaning you can choose which wineries to visit and how long to stay at each one. They take care of the driving, so you can just sit back, enjoy the scenery, and taste some incredible wines without worrying about logistics. It’s a flexible and relaxed way to experience the region, with friendly drivers and a well-organized schedule to help you make the most of your day. Plan your next wine tour with Trail Hopper
Our first stop was Shaw + Smith, one of the most well-known names in the Adelaide Hills. Their sleek and modern cellar door has beautiful views over the vineyards, making it a great spot to relax with a tasting flight. Their Sauvignon Blanc is famous for a reason—crisp, fresh, and full of citrus and tropical fruit flavors. The Shiraz was another standout, smooth and elegant with a nice bit of spice. The staff were knowledgeable and happy to chat, making the whole experience even better. Find out about Shaw + Smith winery.
Next up was Nepenthe, a winery with a more laid-back, rustic feel. The tasting room was welcoming, with friendly staff guiding us through their impressive range of wines. Their Altitude Sauvignon Blanc was refreshing and zesty, while the Pinnacle Chardonnay had a lovely balance of oak and fruit. One of the surprises of the day was their Tempranillo—smooth, juicy, and something a little different from the usual Adelaide Hills offerings. Find out more about Nepenthe Winery here
Artwine was a real highlight, especially if you love trying something a bit different. This family-owned winery focuses on alternative varieties, and their cellar door is bright, stylish, and full of personality. We tried some fantastic wines, including a gorgeous Fiano with bright citrus notes and a Montepulciano that was rich and bold. The staff were passionate about their wines, and the relaxed atmosphere made it a really enjoyable stop. More information about Artwine here
Our final stop was Petaluma, a winery with a strong reputation for premium wines. Their tasting room is set in a beautiful building with a huge verandah with stunning views. Their Croser sparkling wine was a great way to finish the day—light, crisp, and elegant. The Petaluma Chardonnay was another standout, with a perfect balance of oak and acidity. Sitting back with a glass of wine and soaking up the surroundings was the perfect end to a fantastic tour. You can find out all about Petaluma Winery here
We loved visiting Adelaide Hills and would highly recommend this wine region to anyone visiting Adelaide. The Trail Hopper was a “no brainer” for us and allowed us to thoroughly enjoy the day without worrying about driving or navigating to the next vineyard.
