These Are Some of the Best Barossa Wineries to Visit & Wine Tours for Wonderful Wine Tasting Experiences in Australia
Renowned by many as one of the world’s greatest wine regions, Barossa Valley is the quintessential South Australian wine destination. The Barossa Valley is home to the oldest Shiraz and Grenache vines, which are still in production worldwide. As captivating as its soil, the valley’s history is layered and complex, leaving one yearning for more. With gently undulating hills draped in vines as far as the eye can see, the region offers a tranquil escape.
Barossa produces big, bold Shiraz and delicious Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, and Mataro. Barossa also produces some of the best red blends in the country. With over 150 wineries and 80 cellar doors, including hidden gems and well-known ones, the Barossa Valley offers wine lovers plenty of choices.
Most visitors opt for a day trip out of Adelaide to Barossa Valley. However, the small towns of Seppelsfield, Angastun, and Tenunda also provide a good base for exploring the wine region.
In This Guide:
- Travel Logistics
- Best Barossa Wine Tours
- Best Barossa Wineries
- Where to Eat
- Where to Stay
- What to Pack
- Frequently Asked Questions About Barossa Valley Wine Tours & Wineries
Travel Logistics
Adelaide Airport offers a convenient gateway for those seeking to reach the famed Barossa Valley. For those arriving internationally, connecting through Adelaide Airport is necessary. For a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience, choose airlines such as Qantas or Virgin Australia.
These airlines provide top-notch service, a range of flight options, and comfortable seating arrangements. You can get updates on flight deals as they arise with Kayak.
Trains such as the Indian Pacific and Great Southern by Journey Beyond also offer a unique mode of transportation to Southern Australia.
While public transportation in the region is minimal, renting a car offers the ideal mode of transportation. However, taxis are also readily accessible, requiring just fifteen minutes’ notice to reach most destinations within the valley.
RELATED: Looking to Explore Beyond Barossa? Checkout Our Complete Guide to Wine Tasting All Over Australia
A brief one-hour drive from Adelaide’s city center leads to the heart of the Barossa Zone. The most direct route is via the Northern Connector, which takes you to Tanunda in central Barossa. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants and shops.
After arriving in the valley, visitors are greeted with a wide selection of large-production well-known brands, alongside smaller family-owned estates with the owner/winemaker leading the tasting room. The list below features a combination of large and small wineries, as well as wine tour operators who cater to different preferences.
Barossa Wine Tours and Unique Wine Tasting Experiences
Make Your Own Wine in Barossa Valley
If you’re looking for a guided experience within the valley, there are numerous tour options and bespoke experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You can even make your own wine at the famed Penfolds estate.
Luxury Door-to-Door Cellar Tour
For those seeking to avoid driving, CP Tours and Charters offers a highly-rated luxury door-to-door cellar tour, including hotel pickup and drop-off in Adelaide. The company will also plan the tour company selects four wineries for you, so you don’t have to do the planning. The tour includes wine tasting fees and lunch.
Full Day Barossa Wine Tasting
Alternatively, See Adelaide offers a full day wine tasting trip that includes four wineries, if you’re looking for more options.
Custom Barossa Valley Wine Tours
Cellar Door Tours also offers customized tours to some of the most interesting wineries in Barossa.
Wine Tour & Village Experiences
Bums on Seats offers a similar full-day tour with funny and engaging tour guides. You’ll cruise through the quaint villages of Lyndoch, Tanunda, and Angaston, stop at five wineries and also make a stop at Maggie Beer Farm (discussed in more detail below). This tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Adelaide or Glenelg.
Hop-on-Hop-Off Barossa Wine Region Tour
Finally, one popular option offered by Trail Hopper is a hop-on-hop-off the bus wine region tour, which allows you to travel at your own pace, making stops at up to 12 wineries and eateries along the route. This is a grape way to really immerse yourself in Barossa.
RELATED: 30 Funny (and Real) Place and Town Names in Australia
Best Wineries to Visit in Barossa Valley
Murray Street Vineyards
Murray Street, Greenock
What Guests Like About It: The tasting room atmosphere feels like being invited into someone’s home.
Murray Street Vineyards in Barossa Valley’s Western Ridge sits among the winery’s Greenock hillside vineyard. A warmly furnished tasting room resembles a comfortable living room. The adjacent brick structure and trellis covered patio both provide ample seating with room for larger groups.
The winemakers produce only small batch wines using estate grown grapes. A knowledgeable wine ambassador walks guests through a comprehensive wine tasting that includes where the grapes were grown, the varietal, the wine’s characteristics, and other useful information to understand more about the wine being tasted.
The flight starts with a Semillon guaranteed to wake up your taste buds. Next, guests taste a Provence style rosé, then on to Murray Street’s rich, luscious reds. The Artisan Cabernet Shiraz remains the Murray Street favorite. Platers of local artisan cheese and produce are available. Open daily, reservations encouraged.
Ballycroft
1 Adelaide Road, Greenock
What Guests Like About It: Tasting with the winemaker/owners in an unpretentious setting.
This is not your traditional cellar door. Instead, Ballycroft is a working winery, where groups of one to eight guests are invited into the production facility to taste wine. In a unique and personal experience, visitors learn more about wine production with either Joseph or Sue Evans, winemakers/viticulturists/owners. These two do it all at this boutique winery.
Joseph says he makes “old-school style wines.” From the Montepulciano to the Mataro, to the Cabernet Sauvignon, each of the Ballycroft wines reflects a labor of love. Reservations highly recommended.
Rockford
131 Krondorf Road, Tanunda
What Guests Like About It: The history and well-preserved buildings and grounds.
A favorite Barossa winery, this 1850s cellar door sells traditionally made, small-range wines, including sparkling reds. It’s known as the “School of Rockford” because so many Barossa Valley winemakers got their start in the wine business by working and training here. True to its history, Rockford continues to employ old-fashioned techniques to make their wine.
The winery makes an excellent Semillon and Riesling. The Alicante Bouchet is their best-selling wine. Open daily. Walk-ins accepted but due to its popularity, reservations are recommended.
Torbreck
348 Roennfeldt Rd, Marananga
What Guests Like About It: Big wines full of character and sense of place.
Torbreck, a prominent winery since its establishment in 1995, is renowned for producing big, bold wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir. Recently, the winery unveiled a new tasting room and outdoor patio. The airy and inviting tasting room boasts floor-to-ceiling windows. Both the tasting room and outdoor patio offer stunning views of their vineyard.
The winery’s wines command a high price in the market, thanks to a string of high Robert Parker scores. For those who prefer the cult Napa Valley Cabs but are doubtful about Barossa Shiraz, the Laird is a must-try. Other notable highlights include the Woodcutters Semillon and Les Amis Grenache. Open daily, reservations encouraged.
Seppeltsfield
730 Seppeltsfield Rd, Seppeltsfield
What Guests Like About It: Its rich history and original estate property.
Seppeltsfield, established in 1850, stands as a testament to the early days of the Australian wine industry, steeped in a rich history that draws in visitors from around the world. The estate features several original 1900’s structures, including the family home, which can be toured, providing a glimpse into the past.
The cellar door showcases several remarkable features, such as a large restaurant named Fino, an art center displaying locally made ceramics, artwork, and glass, and a variety of stunning landscape features, including an ornate fountain. Visitors should reserve extra time in their schedule to engage with the artists showcasing their creations at Jam Factory.
By booking in advance, visitors can choose from several tour options, including a private visit to the historic barrel museum, with a chance to taste up to five different 100+ year old tawnies from the barrel. Seppeltsfield offers an immersive experience, perfect for those seeking to explore the region’s rich wine-making heritage. Open daily, reservations essential.
Side Note: A fascinating piece of history surrounding Barossa Valley is the story of the perfectly planted palm trees that line the roads leading up to Seppeltsfield. It was none other than the Seppelt family who orchestrated this remarkable feat, employing all of their winemaking staff during the Great Depression between 1914-1918 to plant the trees. This not only created a striking visual for visitors to enjoy but also enabled the family to support their hardworking team members during the challenging financial climate of the era. The Seppelt family’s commitment to their staff and the region’s beauty is a testament to their enduring legacy in the Barossa wine industry.
Tscharke
376 Seppeltsfield Rd, Marananga
What Guests Like About It: Great tasting room, very affordable wines.
Tscharke, a renowned organic and biodynamic winery in Barossa Valley, offers a diverse range of wines for visitors to sample. The tasting room, located in a charming house, features unique fixtures and offers locally made ceramics for sale. The winery includes a tranquil outdoor sitting area, ideal for unwinding and taking in the beautiful surroundings, and an underground cellar used for immersive tasting experiences.
The winery’s location amidst the rolling hills of Marananga provides a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. Tscharke’s wines offer a unique expression of the region, showcasing the passion and commitment of the winemakers to their craft. Open Monday to Saturday, reservations recommended.
Peter Lehmann
Para Rd, Tanunda SA 5352, Australia
What Guests Like About It: The legacy of Peter Lehmann and his significance in Barossa Valley.
Peter Lehmann winery has established itself as a significant player in the wine industry over the past 44 years, with the 2023 vintage marking its 44th anniversary. The winery’s long-standing relationships with growers and winemakers have contributed to its success, even after the passing of Peter Lehmann himself.
Casella Brands has done an admirable job of preserving Peter’s legacy and vision of supporting the growers of Barossa Valley. The winery purchases most of the grapes it uses from local growers, many of whom have had personal relationships with the Lehmann family for decades. Peter Lehmann wines come at an accessible price point, ranging from $20 to $100 per bottle. Among their highlights is the Black Queen Sparkling Shiraz, a remarkable expression of the region, and an ideal addition to any holiday meal. Additionally, the winery’s premium line, 8 Songs, offers an exceptional tasting experience, showcasing the winery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Peter Lehmann’s winemaking heritage is reflected in each bottle, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers visiting the Barossa Valley. Open daily, recommended.
Kaesler
3174 Barossa Valley Way, Nuriootpa
What Guests Like About It: Old vines, new wine making techniques.
Established in 1893, Kaesler is a family-owned winery that has undergone a transition of ownership over the years but has remained committed to producing exceptional wines. The winery is renowned for its experimental wines, including a whole bunch Grenache and the “Old Bastard” Shiraz. Kaesler’s Cabernet Sauvignons stand out as a personal favorite in the region, offering a unique expression of the terroir.
For guests who really want to immerse themselves in the wine experience, Kaesler offers six onsite cottages for rent. Vineyard tours available.
Kaesler’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned it a place among the most celebrated wineries in the Barossa Valley. Open daily, reservations recommended.
Henschke
1428 Keyneton Rd, Keyneton SA 5353, Australia
What Guests Like About It: The winery’s historic cellar and family history.
Henschke is a winery located in the Eden Valley wine region of Barossa, South Australia. The winery was founded in 1868 by Johann Christian Henschke and has been in the family for six generations. Today, the winery is run by Stephen and Prue Henschke, who continue the family’s tradition of producing exceptional wines.
The winery is best known for its Shiraz wines, which are highly regarded for their complexity, depth of flavor, and age-worthiness. The Hill of Grace Shiraz is the winery’s flagship wine, and it is considered one of the best Shiraz wines in Australia. The Hill of Grace vineyard was first planted in the 1860s and is one of the oldest vineyards in Australia.
In addition to Shiraz, Henschke also produces a range of other wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Semillon. The winery’s wines are all made using traditional winemaking techniques, including hand-harvesting, open-top fermentation, and aging in French oak barrels.
Visitors to the winery can take a guided tour of the historic cellar, which dates back to the 1860s, and sample a selection of the winery’s wines in the tasting room. The winery also offers exclusive food and wine experiences via private plane. Open Monday through Saturday, reservations recommended.
Tom Foolery
517 Stockwell Road, Light Pass
What Guests Like About It: Cheeky wines of bold character.
Founded in 2004 by Ben Chimpan and Toby Yap, Tom Foolery is a small winery that offers exceptional wine quality. Both Chimpan and Yap had previously worked at Rockford Winery as part of the wine-making team before embarking on this venture. Tom Foolery’s dedication to producing seriously good juice has earned it a reputation as a standout among the region’s wineries.
The winery’s property boasts plantings of Tempranillo, a Spanish grape that thrives in Barossa’s unique climate, and is a personal favorite of many. The tasting room may be small, but the wine production is even smaller, allowing for a more intimate and personalized tasting experience. Open Thursday through Monday.
The winery also offers a one-bedroom cottage onsite for rent.
Artisans of Barossa
24 Vine Vale Road, Tanunda
What Guests Like About It: Eight Barossa Valley wineries in one destination.
Artisans of Barossa is a not-to-be-missed destination for wine enthusiasts visiting Barossa Valley. Featuring a tasting room for eight different wineries, it includes John Duval, Spinifex, and Sons of Eden, as well as two delicious restaurants. Artisans provides a unique opportunity to sample a wide range of exceptional wines all in one location.
With lovely outdoor seating and a sprawling lawn perfect for children to run and play, Artisans offers an idyllic setting to relax and unwind. In addition to the wine, the restaurants serve delectable dishes that provide sustenance after a long day of wine tasting. Artisans of Barossa is the perfect destination to experience the region’s diverse wineries and cuisine all in one place. Open daily, reservations recommended.
RELATED: How to Go Wine Tasting with Kids
Where to Eat
Fino at Seppeltsfield
730 Seppeltsfield Road, Seppeltsfield
Fino Seppeltsfield is located in the heart of the village next to the Seppeltsfield cellar door. Using local produced and food sources, Fino offers the best in Barossa Valley seasonal dishes. Open daily for lunch. Reservations required.
Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop and Restaurant
50 Pheasant Farm Road, Nuriootpa
Maggie Beer, a Barossa institution known for artisan prepared foods, offers visitors a farm shop filled with locally prepared food products, a restaurant called The Eatery, and onsite accommodations.
Maggie Beer’s coffee is not to be missed, and its selection of pate, cheeses, and baked goods offers a delightful selection of provisions for a day of wine-tasting. Maggie Beer’s attention to detail and commitment to using locally sourced ingredients has earned it a place as a noteworthy destination for food and wine enthusiasts alike. The Eatery is open Thursday through Monday, reservations required. The Farm Shop is open daily and open to all visitors.
Vintners Bar and Grill
752 Stockwell Rd, Angaston
Nestled between the vineyards in the heart of Barossa Valley, Vintners Bar & Grill is a charming dining destination that is open for both lunch and dinner. The restaurant’s idyllic location surrounded by vines offers a picturesque setting for a memorable dining experience. The presence of local winemakers dining here is a testament to the exceptional quality of the restaurant’s food and service.
For wine enthusiasts, Vintners Bar & Grill boasts an impressive wine selection, including reasonably priced wines from Barossa and the old world, providing a diverse range of options to complement the menu. Although the restaurant’s menu is small, it features a well-curated selection of local delicacies that reflect the region’s unique culinary traditions. Visitors are encouraged to book ahead and request a window table for a breathtaking view of the surrounding vineyards. Open for lunch daily, dinner Monday through Saturday. Reservations recommended.
Hentley Farms
Gerald Roberts Rd, Jenke Rd, Seppeltsfield SA 5355, Australia
Arguably the best restaurant in Barossa valley, Hentley Farms is a two-hatted restaurant that utilizes produce sourced from their own garden. Reservations are required, and the meal comes with a hefty degustation price tag. Needless to say, it is worth the price. Open for lunch Thursday through Sunday.
Even if you can’t make it to the restaurant – go for the wine. The cellar door is based in an old sheep shearing shed, with antique accents, the tasting is conducted in what feels like your grandmother’s living room. Wines are quality across the board, especially their Riesling and a side-by-side comparing of the Beauty and Beast Shiraz.
Where to Stay in Barossa Valley
Nestled in the heart of Australia’s premier wine region, Barossa Valley offers a variety of luxurious accommodations for those seeking a top-notch experience. Here are three of the finest luxury hotels in Barossa Valley that stand out for their unique amenities and proximity to must-visit wineries.
The Louise
This five-star hotel is a wine lover’s dream, boasting an extensive list of 500 wines and hosting regular wine tastings and experiences. Its 15 spacious and elegantly furnished suites offer guests an immersive and intimate wine country experience. The rooms are equipped with private terraces overlooking the vineyards, and the hotel’s restaurant, Appellation, offers an innovative and delicious regional menu made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Book or Check Prices at the Louise in Barossa on Tripadvisor
Kingsford the Barossa
This magnificent 19th-century homestead turned luxury boutique hotel is steeped in history and charm. The Kingsford the Barossa property offers seven beautifully appointed rooms, each with a unique style and character. The hotel’s location, just a short drive from some of the region’s top wineries, makes it an ideal base for exploring the valley. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s outdoor pool and spa, indulge in a gourmet meal at the property’s award-winning restaurant Orleana, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding.
Book or Check Prices at Kingsford Barossa on Tripadvisor
Seppeltsfield Vineyard Cottage
The Louise’s sister property, this secluded, luxury cottage offers guests the ultimate wine country escape. Set amidst the stunning Seppeltsfield Vineyard, the cottage offers two spacious bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy living room with a fireplace. Guests can relax on the private deck overlooking the vineyards, enjoy a glass of wine by the fire pit, and take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards. The cottage’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the valley’s top wineries, including Seppeltsfield, Henschke, and Yalumba.
Book or Check Prices at Seppeltsfield in Barossa on Tripadvisor
What to Pack
The Barossa Valley in Australia is renowned for its warm and Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. During the summer months, which run from December to February, temperatures can soar up to 40°C (104°F), while winters are milder, with average temperatures ranging from 8-16°C (46-61°F).
When visiting the Barossa Valley vineyards, it is important to pack appropriately for the weather conditions. For daytime visits during the summer months, visitors should pack light, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen, and a hat to protect themselves from the sun. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes are also essential. In the evenings, the temperature drops, and visitors should pack a light sweater or jacket to keep themselves warm.
During the winter months, visitors should pack layers of clothing to stay warm during the chilly mornings and evenings. Warm jackets, scarves, and gloves are also recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are still essential.
It is important to note that the Barossa Valley is a casual destination, and there is no need to dress formally. Visitors can wear casual, comfortable clothing during their visit, particularly when visiting the wineries and cellar doors.
Peruse the Winetraveler Shop for some of our trending casual vineyard-hopping apparel. Ideal for exploring the vineyards and indulging in the region’s famous wines.
The Magic of Barossa Valley
One could spend a lifetime immersed in the wonders of Barossa Valley, learning something new each day. Despite our team haven taken four trips and invested countless hours researching and visiting wineries in the region, there is still an abundance left to discover. Some of our writers have worked as sommeliers in Australia for years, sharing and selling these exceptional wines to guests. Our authors have gained a unique perspective and understanding of Barossa’s most exceptional producers. These journeys have served as a jumping-off point for sharing these remarkable places with others, in the hope that they too may someday experience the magic of Barossa Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions About Barossa Valley Wineries & Wine Tours
You are reading “Best Barossa Wineries to Visit”: Back To Top
wineries near me, Barossa Valley wineries, wine tours near me: destinations in Australia to visit
If you enjoyed this guide, consider joining the Facebook Group to interact with other Winetravelers and for wine travel inspiration around the world. Be sure to follow us on both Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date with our trending content.
Where is Henschske situated?
Hi Louis, Henschke is located in the Eden Valley sub-region of the Barossa. (Address: 1428 Keyneton Road, Keyneton SA 5353, Australia). You can find it about 20 kilometers northwest of the town of Angaston and about 77 kilometers northeast of the city of Adelaide.