Frosty’s List Barossa Valley and Mclaren Vale

The Barossa Valley is an iconic wine area in Australia with some of the best wines in the world! When we were in the Barossa we visited 13 wineries in only a couple of days (maybe too much to handle for most). Many of the wineries were chosen by my fiancee’s parents who are extreme wine buffs! All I can say is that my mind was blown! My knowledge of wine and my palate grew so much during the trip. Not to forget the stunning scenery and exceptional food scene.

Here is my recommendation for three days in the Barossa Valley and surrounds.

Day 1 - Arriving in Adelaide

Most places you are travelling from will bring you via Adelaide on your way to the wine country. We only spent an evening in Adelaide, so I cannot speak much of the city. I would however definitely recommend walking around the Adelaide Central Market - multiple stall holders from fresh produce to take away foods.

If you decide to stay in Adelaide for the evening, check out Chianti for lunch or dinner. A sensational Italian restaurant that catered well to our pescatarian and gluten free dietaries, and of course they had a superb wine selection.

You will need a car and a dedicated driver to get around the Barossa as many of the wineries aren’t located very close to each other. Alternatively you can organise a mini van and driver for each day if none of you want to be using the spit bucket!

The drive from Adelaide to the heart of the Barossa is approximately one hour North. We were travelling with our family of five adults and stayed at Barossa Bed & Breakfast in Tanunda. It is perfect for a family or group of six with three bedrooms and ample living space. Their kitchen is really well equipped and has the perfect setting for breakfasts and dinners in while you enjoy some of the produce and wine you have discovered in the area.

Day 2 - Main day tasting fabulous wine and divine food

Main day and all the wine to taste! We had a great home made breakfast before hitting the road. Here are some of the ‘must visit’ spots we tasted our way through:

Gibson Wines - A small winery run by Robert Gibson and his wife. They are both great characters and their wine is equally full of character! Look out for their The Dirtman shiraz, Reserve Merlot and Old Vine Barossa Shiraz.

Torbreck - With a nod to Scotland and European winemaking yet staying true to it’s surroundings, this place is different yet well worth the visit! The Woodcutter’s Shiraz is a definite crowd pleaser.

Hentley Farm - A winery and restaurant. We went for a long lunch at their Chef’s table for a special celebration. This was one of the best restaurant experiences I have had. With an open kitchen and the chefs bringing in the dishes, we indulged with spectacular show-stopping food and wine. They forage wild produce and source local ingredients from the Barossa Valley. Look out for The Beast Shiraz - the name says it all.

Two Hands - ‘Quality over compromise’ is what they strive to deliver and that they have! We got there just before closing and managed to squeeze in a quick tasting. Bella’s Garden was one of my favourites.

Maggie Beer’s - Farm Shop and Cafe. This place is a great stop for a casual lunch or to grab some pantry treats on your way to your accommodation. She does a superb quince paste and chutney selection as well as a number of great oil infusions - perfect for your cheese board accompanied with some of the wine you bought during the day!

Day 3 - Last tastings and the road back to Adelaide

Chateau Dorrien - This one was one of our random stops. To be honest, we stopped as we had driven past multiple times and had a little laugh about the name. We went in, had a tasting and boy were we glad we stopped! These guys produce wine, fortified wine and meads - all at great value. We particularly enjoyed their Falcon’s Nest range.

Turkey Flat - Dating back to 1847, Turkey Flat produce wine with the environment and sustainability in mind. This is where I found my favourite rose! It sells out, so when you see a bottle don’t hesitate to grab one or six!

Henschke - over 150 years of family winemaking, my favourites were Peggy’s Hill Reisling and Keyneton Euphonium shiraz blend.

Alternative add on for the afternoon:

Head approximately 30min South from Adelaide to McLaren Vale.

Maxwell Wines - we came for the wine and stayed for the food. Their restaurant was able to accommodate us without a booking due to cancellations and we are so lucky they did! The food was sublime! Seasonal locally sourced food, fresh sensational flavours! What a treat we had!

d’Arenberg - This is a very different experience - immersive art installation meets wine tasting. It was utterly bizarre yet intriguing! If you have any interest in art, this is a must see! The wines were good too! :)

Find all my Hunter Valley and McLaren Vale favourite spots here: Frosty’s List Barossa Valley & Surrounds