McLaren Vale
McLaren Vale is a prominent wine region located south of Adelaide in South Australia, known for its Mediterranean climate with cooling maritime influences from Gulf St. Vincent. The region excels in producing rich, full-bodied Shiraz, complex Grenache, and outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon, with increasing recognition for Mediterranean varieties like Tempranillo, Sangiovese, and Fiano. McLaren Vale is distinguished by its diverse soil profiles including terra rossa, sand, loam, and clay, which contribute to distinctive wine expressions and has become renowned for its sustainable viticulture practices and premium boutique wineries.
Wines from McLaren Vale
McLaren Vale (3)
D'Arenberg Marsanne Viognier The Hermit Crab
The Hermit Crab is named for the fossilized crustaceans found throughout the vineyard soils of McLaren Vale – a fitting tribute to the mineral complexity this blend delivers. D'Arenberg has a knack for quirky names and serious wines, and this Rhône-inspired white blend perfectly demonstrates their approach: traditional techniques, minimal intervention, and a healthy dose of Australian character. Blending Marsanne and Viognier creates a wine with the best qualities of both varieties – the structure and aging potential of Marsanne combined with the aromatic expressiveness of Viognier. What makes this particularly special is how it manages to capture the generous fruit character you expect from Australian wine while maintaining elegance and restraint. It's like finding that perfect balance between beach-casual and smart-casual – relaxed but still put-together. For those tired of the same old Chardonnay but wanting something with similar weight and texture, The Hermit Crab offers a delicious alternative that's both interesting and approachable.
D'Arenberg The Stump Jump Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre 2019
D'Arenberg's The Stump Jump GSM is a classic McLaren Vale blend that showcases the region's warm climate characteristics. This medium-bodied red offers bright fruit flavors with subtle spice and earthy notes, delivering excellent value from one of Australia's iconic producers.
Thistledown 'Gorgeous Grenache' Old Vine
Thistledown 'Gorgeous Grenache' Old Vine is a premium expression of Australian Grenache made from old bush vines in McLaren Vale. This wine showcases the region's ability to produce elegant yet powerful Grenache with minimal intervention winemaking techniques that highlight the pure fruit expression and savory complexity.