Mclaren Vale, South Australia

McLaren Vale offers exceptional wines, regional produce and beautiful scenery nestled between the Mount Lofty Ranges and beaches of Gulf St Vincent.

Best known for its wineries and welcoming cellar doors, McLaren Vale also produces fruits and is an extensive almond growing region. Little wonder that it has an abundance of cafes and restaurants whose chefs happily showcase local produce.

The main street of McLaren Vale is a charming showcase of cellar doors, local produce, art and craft stores, cafes and more.

The first McLaren Vale vines were planted by John Reynell in 1838 and by 1850 the well known Hardy and Seaview wineries were in operation.

Walk or cycle along the old railway alignment between Willunga and Seaford - through vineyards, wild olives and old gum trees - to get a feel for this gorgeous countryside.

The McLaren Vale region is dotted by more than 50 wineries, most of which are small to medium-size boutique operations but also including such major Australian players as the BRL Hardy group and Rosemount. About 270 independent grape growers can also be found here.

Shiraz is a specialty, as are Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache, while Merlot is becoming increasingly popular as a varietal. Chardonnay dominates the white varieties but Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling are also gaining kudos, and experimentation is taking place with Viognier, Marsanne and Sangiovese.

With dozens of cellar doors, you'll be spoilt for choice in McLaren Vale. Among the best are Coriole Winery, d'Arenberg Vineyard and Winery and Wirra Wirra Vineyards and Cellars.