South Australia’s McLaren Vale delivers outstanding wine tours that get straight to the good stuff. Small groups of 6-12 people ensure you’re not lost in the crowd. I especially love Coast and Vine’s e-bike tours – they combine exercise with excellent wine tastings, and you really feel connected to the landscape. The “Make Your Own Blend” experience at d’Arenberg Cube is another winner, letting you play winemaker for a day.
Most tours include thoughtful extras: cellar door visits, local lunch stops, and comfortable transport from Adelaide. The best part? You’re getting up close with some of Australia’s finest shiraz producers.
Check out these top tour picks for your McLaren Vale adventure.
Key Points
- McLaren Vale offers a range of highly-rated small group wine tours, with maximum group sizes of 8-12 and convenient pickup options from Adelaide.
- Unique wine experiences include blindfolded tastings, winery tours with barrel tastings and multi-course lunches, and the opportunity to create personalized wine blends.
- Immersive winery and vineyard experiences provide in-depth insights into grape cultivation, winemaking, and rare vintage tastings.
- Adventure tours combine wine tasting with activities like biking, e-biking, and stand-up paddleboarding for a more active exploration of the region.
- Many tour operators offer flexible booking options, including free cancellation, reserve now-pay later, and door-to-door transfers for a seamless experience.
McLaren Vale Small Group Wine Tour
Offering a personalized and intimate wine tasting experience, the McLaren Vale Small Group Wine Tour takes visitors on a journey through the renowned wine region. Rated 4.9/5 based on over 100 reviews, this tour caters to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a tailored and attentive experience.
Guests will explore iconic and boutique family-owned wineries, including lesser-known gems, with the option to add beer and gin tastings, as well as enjoy delicious regional platters for lunch. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the winemaking process and share their expertise, while the comfortable luxury vehicles ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.
Convenient pickup from Adelaide CBD, Glenelg, and southern suburbs, including AirBnB and private addresses, makes the tour accessible. With inclusions such as cellar door tasting fees, entry to The d’Arenberg Cube, and return transfers, the tour offers excellent value.
Positive reviews highlight the fun, relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about wine while taking in the stunning McLaren Vale scenery.
Read our full review: McLaren Vale Small Group Wine Tour Review
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Hardys: Tasting in the Dark – A Wine Sensory Experience
For those seeking a unique and immersive wine tasting experience, Hardys: Tasting in the Dark offers a sensory exploration that will challenge and delight. This 1.5-hour activity, limited to just 10 participants, takes place in an exclusive Fortified Cellar, where visitors will engage their senses through a blindfolded tasting in a dark environment.
Priced at $77.35 per person, the experience focuses on how senses influence wine tasting. Under the guidance of a private host, attendees will discover sensory tricks and skills to enhance their wine knowledge and understanding of their personal palate.
No prior wine expertise is required, making it suitable for all levels. The experience includes all wine and food tastes for the sensory component, and attendees can reserve their spot with no upfront payment, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether visiting with friends or family, Hardys: Tasting in the Dark promises an engaging and educational wine journey.
Read our full review: Hardys: Tasting in the Dark – A Wine Sensory Experience Review
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Lukes McLaren Vale Wine Tour
Lukes McLaren Vale Wine Tour takes visitors on a captivating full-day exploration of the region’s renowned wineries, distilleries, and eateries.
This highly-rated tour, boasting a 5.0-star rating and a Badge of Excellence, is led by a knowledgeable local guide and accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers for an intimate atmosphere.
The customizable itinerary ensures participants can tailor the experience to their preferences, with lunch and wine tastings available at additional cost.
Pickup is offered from locations within an hour’s drive of McLaren Vale or the tour can be joined at the designated meeting point.
Reviewers praise the exceptional local knowledge and well-planned nature of this wine tasting excursion.
With a competitive price of $69.32 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, Lukes McLaren Vale Wine Tour offers a truly memorable and flexible wine experience in the heart of this renowned Australian wine region.
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Vistas and Wines: Adelaide’s Gems and Wine Private Tour
One of the most captivating wine tours in the McLaren Vale region, the Vistas and Wines: Adelaide’s Gems and Wine Private Tour offers travelers a comprehensive and personalized experience.
This 8-hour tour, with pickup available, provides a small-group setting for an intimate exploration of the area’s stunning landscapes and renowned wineries.
Guests can expect to visit multiple wineries, indulge in tastings, and enjoy a delectable lunch as they take in the breathtaking views of the Fleurieu Peninsula.
The tour is led by certified guides, ensuring a knowledgeable and informative experience.
With a 4.9-star rating from 17 reviews, this tour is a top choice for those seeking a well-rounded introduction to the McLaren Vale region.
At £96.04 per person, the Vistas and Wines tour offers excellent value, combining wine tasting, sightseeing, and a gourmet meal in a personalized setting.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to explore the stunning scenery, this tour is a must-consider for your McLaren Vale visit.
Read our full review: Vistas and Wines: Adelaide’s Gems and Wine Private Tour Review
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Best of Mclaren Vale: E-Bike and Wine Tour (2 Options Available)
Explore the picturesque McLaren Vale region on an exhilarating e-bike and wine tour. This small-group adventure starts at Moana Beach, where you’ll hop on electric bikes for a scenic ride to the renowned McLaren Vale wine country.
Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop for a coffee break before switching to a minibus for wine tastings. The tour includes free wine tastings with the purchase of a bottle, allowing you to sample a variety of local wines, beers, and gins.
Lunch options are available, and you can choose to bring your own or select from the recommended dining options. The tour is highly recommended, with a 4.9 rating from 13 travelers.
Offering two convenient pickup options, the tour is accessible and flexible, catering to your preferences. With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour provides a personalized experience, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Operated by Gone AWOL, the tour starts at $125.40 per person.
Read our full review: Best of Mclaren Vale: E-Bike and Wine Tour (2 Options Available) Review
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McLaren Vale: Private Gemtree Wines Biodynamic Winery Tour
Although Gemtree Wines in McLaren Vale is known for its biodynamic wine production, the Private Gemtree Wines Biodynamic Winery Tour offers an in-depth look at this sustainable approach.
Over 1.5 hours, visitors will receive a guided tour of the Biodynamic Hut and vineyard, learning about biodynamic grape growing and winemaking from the experts. The personalized wine tasting experience provides insights into Gemtree’s regional wines, and you will receive a complimentary bottle for every two people in the group.
The tour also includes a delicious regional platter featuring cured meats, cheeses, condiments, and locally baked bread, paired with a glass of Gemtree wine.
With a minimum of 2 participants required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Private Gemtree Wines Biodynamic Winery Tour is a flexible and highly-rated (5/5) wine experience in McLaren Vale.
Read our full review: McLaren Vale: Private Gemtree Wines Biodynamic Winery Tour Review
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Explore, Wine & Dine in McLaren Vale
Guests seeking a truly immersive wine experience in McLaren Vale can embark on the Explore, Wine & Dine tour at Shottesbrooke Winery. This exclusive private experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at the art of winemaking, from vineyard to bottle.
Visitors will start with a hands-on tour of the winery, learning about the process while enjoying barrel tastings and full-sensory experiences. The highlight of the tour is a delicious 3-course lunch at the Currant Shed, where guests can savor regional cuisine while discovering the flavors of South Australia.
Throughout the day, the knowledgeable hosts share their expertise on the winemaking craft, allowing guests to gain a deeper appreciation for the industry. With a perfect 5-star rating and a lowest price guarantee, this tour provides exceptional value for wine enthusiasts looking to enjoy the heart of McLaren Vale’s vibrant wine culture.
Read our full review: Explore, Wine & Dine in McLaren Vale Review
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McLaren Vale Winery Experience – Small Group Tour
For those seeking a more intimate and personalized wine experience in McLaren Vale, the McLaren Vale Winery Experience – Small Group Tour provides an excellent opportunity. Priced at $145.42 per person, this 8-hour tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s finest wineries, with stops at up to four carefully selected cellar doors, including Maxwell Wines, Oliver’s Taranga, Richard Hamilton, and DogRidge Winery.
The tour features a scenic drive, wine tastings showcasing a variety of local varietals such as Shiraz, Grenache, and Fiano, and a delightful regional platter lunch featuring local produce.
With a small group size capped at 8 participants, travelers can enjoy personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides, who share insightful commentary and local insights throughout the day.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, making it a convenient and flexible choice for wine enthusiasts.
Based on consistently positive reviews, this small group tour is an excellent way to take in the flavors and scenery of the renowned McLaren Vale wine region.
Read our full review: McLaren Vale Winery Experience – Small Group Tour Review
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Wirra Wirra Vineyard McLaren Vale: Winery Tour and Shiraz Masterclass
Nestled within the picturesque McLaren Vale region, Wirra Wirra Vineyard offers visitors an immersive winery experience, highlighted by a guided tour and a captivating Shiraz masterclass.
During this one-hour adventure, guests will venture behind the scenes to explore the intricacies of grape cultivation, winemaking, and barrel aging. The tour culminates with a visit to the historic Ironstone Cellars, where travelers can even ring the iconic Angelus Bell.
The Shiraz masterclass delves deeper into McLaren Vale’s renowned red varietal. Guests will savor a selection of Shiraz wines, including a rare museum vintage, while learning about the region’s unique terroir and winemaking techniques.
The tasting is enhanced by a pairing with decadent Four Winds chocolates, creating a harmonious sensory experience. With a maximum of 13 participants, the small-group format ensures a personalized and intimate experience.
Wirra Wirra’s tour and masterclass provide an excellent introduction to the rich wine heritage of McLaren Vale.
Read our full review: Wirra Wirra Vineyard McLaren Vale: Winery Tour and Shiraz Masterclass Review
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Mclaren Vale Hills Vines and Wines Bike Tour From Adelaide
This one-day McLaren Vale Hills Vines and Wines Bike Tour from Adelaide promises an immersive experience for oenophiles and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Priced at €113.73 per person, the tour offers a full day of exploration, from traversing the Kuitpo Forest to indulging in wine tastings at local wineries.
Participants will be outfitted with quality mountain bikes and helmets, allowing them to discover the scenic beauty of the region. Along the way, they may spot kangaroos and koalas in their natural habitats.
The highlight of the tour is the descent of Willunga Hill, leading to the heart of McLaren Vale, where wine tastings and a local produce platter await.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience. Guided by a local expert, participants can expect a well-curated itinerary, including options for additional winery visits, a micro-brewery stop, or a refreshing beach swim.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensures flexibility for travelers.
Read our full review: Mclaren Vale Hills Vines and Wines Bike Tour From Adelaide Review
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Darenberg: the Blending Bench and Degustation With Wine Pairing
Travelers seeking a truly immersive winemaking experience can indulge in dArenberg’s Blending Bench and Degustation With Wine Pairing in the heart of McLaren Vale.
This 4.5-hour small-group tour allows participants to create their own unique Shiraz wine blend under the guidance of expert winemakers.
After blending, guests enjoy an 8-course degustation lunch with matching wines at the acclaimed d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant, overlooking the stunning vineyards.
The experience includes a 750-ml sample bottle to take home and transportation to and from the winery.
With a minimum age of 18 and a maximum of 6 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and personalized winemaking journey.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9 reviews, it’s priced at $233.16 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Darenberg: the Blending Bench and Degustation With Wine Pairing Review
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Adelaide: Wine and Wildlife 4WD Tour
For those seeking a more adventurous wine experience in the McLaren Vale region, the Adelaide: Wine and Wildlife 4WD Tour offers an exciting alternative. Priced from €228.66 per person, this 8-hour tour takes small groups of up to 12 participants on an immersive journey through the Australian bush.
The experience includes hotel pickup, morning refreshments, a 3-course lunch with complimentary wine, and visits to exclusive wildlife locations, the McLaren Vale wine region, Silversands Beach, and local producers for cheese and craft beer.
Travellers can expect a 4×4 adventure, tasting fees, and gratuities included. While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour has received a perfect 5/5 rating based on customer feedback praising the knowledgeable guides, delicious food, stunning scenery, and personalized lunch experience.
Read our full review: Adelaide: Wine and Wildlife 4WD Tour Review
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Coast to Vines: E-Bike*, Paddle Board and Wine Tour (2 Options)
A popular choice among visitors to the McLaren Vale region, the Coast to Vines: E-bike, Paddle Board and Wine Tour offers two exciting options to explore the area’s natural beauty and renowned vineyards.
Priced from $125.40 per person, the tour provides either an e-bike or stand-up paddleboard experience, along with a wine tasting at a local winery. Guests can choose to meet at the designated location and e-bike to the river or drive to the river and return to their accommodation.
The tour accommodates up to 8 participants and requires a moderate fitness level. Travelers receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability, and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
With 100% of 10 total reviews recommending the tour and a 5.0 average rating, the Coast to Vines experience is an excellent way to take in the picturesque McLaren Vale landscape and its acclaimed wine culture.
Read our full review: Coast to Vines: E-Bike*, Paddle Board and Wine Tour (2 Options) Review
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McLaren Vale: Biodynamic Wine Tasting and Degustation Lunch
Although the Coast to Vines tour offers an exciting introduction to the natural wonders and viniculture of McLaren Vale, those seeking a more immersive wine experience may consider the Biodynamic Wine Tasting and Degustation Lunch.
This 8-hour small-group tour takes visitors behind the scenes of a renowned biodynamic winery, where they’ll learn about the winemaker’s sustainable practices and philosophy. Guests will enjoy a guided tasting of the winery’s premium offerings, followed by a multi-course degustation lunch showcasing local, seasonal ingredients.
With a 4.9-star rating from previous participants, this tour provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the region’s rich wine culture and appreciate the artistry of biodynamic viticulture.
At £119.41 per person, the Biodynamic Wine Tasting and Degustation Lunch offers an exceptional value for those looking to elevate their McLaren Vale wine experience.
Read our full review: McLaren Vale: Biodynamic Wine Tasting and Degustation Lunch Review
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Mclaren Vale South Hop-On Hop-Off Winery Tour From Adelaide
Travelers seeking to explore the renowned wineries of McLaren Vale can embark on the Mclaren Vale South Hop-On Hop-Off Winery Tour from Adelaide.
With a 4.8-star rating based on 25 reviews, this highly-recommended tour offers an efficient and flexible way to discover the region’s best vineyards. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and a hop-on hop-off bus service, allowing visitors to customize their experience.
While lunch and alcoholic beverages aren’t included, a variety of dining options are available. Cellar door tasting fees range from $5 to $30 per person.
The tour starts at 10:00 am and is operated by Trail Hopper. Priced from €67.50 per person, the experience can be booked with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable tour guides and the friendly, customer-focused wineries, ensuring a memorable wine tasting adventure in McLaren Vale.
Read our full review: Mclaren Vale South Hop-On Hop-Off Winery Tour From Adelaide Review
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Mclaren Vale: Dead Arm Shiraz Wine Tasting at Darenberg
Located in the heart of McLaren Vale, the d’Arenberg Winery invites visitors to embark on a captivating Dead Arm Shiraz wine tasting experience.
This 1-hour activity, limited to just 10 participants, offers the chance to explore 4 varieties of the renowned Dead Arm Shiraz, including the current release and rare cellar treasures. The Dead Arm Shiraz has received hundreds of accolades since its debut in 1993 and is recognized as one of Australia’s most collected wines.
After the tasting, guests can explore the impressive d’Arenberg Cube, a multi-function building nestled among Mourvèdre vines.
This unique structure offers an optical illusion of floating in a vineyard and provides sweeping views of the Southern Mount Lofty Ranges. The Cube also features a wine sensory room, virtual fermenter, and a 360-degree video room for an immersive sensory experience.
Priced from $34.03 per person, this tour can be booked with no upfront payment and includes the guided tasting and entry to the d’Arenberg Cube.
Hotel pickup and drop-off options are available.
Read our full review: Mclaren Vale: Dead Arm Shiraz Wine Tasting at Darenberg Review
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From Adelaide: McLaren Vale Winery Tour via Hahndorf
Embark on an enriching 8-hour winery tour from Adelaide, exploring the renowned McLaren Vale region via the picturesque Adelaide Hills. Priced at $116.95 per person, this tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the convenience of reserve now, pay later.
Depart from Glenelg or Adelaide, and enjoy a scenic drive through the Adelaide Hills before arriving at the charming town of Hahndorf for 1 hour of shopping and sightseeing.
Continue to Oliver’s Taranga Vineyards and Oxenberry Farm Wines for 45 and 105 minutes of wine tasting and exploration, respectively. Indulge in free time and shopping at the Menz FruChocs shop, and conclude your tour with a visit to the iconic d’Arenberg Cube for another wine tasting and sightseeing experience.
Complimentary pickups, knowledgeable tour guides, and the opportunity to purchase lunch and wines make this an unforgettable day in South Australia’s premier wine region.
Read our full review: From Adelaide: McLaren Vale Winery Tour via Hahndorf Review
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From Adelaide: Boutique Mclaren Vale Wine Tour With Lunch
For those seeking a more intimate and personalized wine tasting experience in South Australia’s renowned McLaren Vale region, the Boutique McLaren Vale Wine Tour with Lunch offers an exceptional opportunity.
Priced from $232.05 per person, this 8-hour tour accommodates a maximum of 6 participants, ensuring a tailored and exclusive experience led by an expert local wine guide.
The day begins with a 45-minute van ride from Adelaide to the heart of McLaren Vale, where guests will enjoy wine tastings at 4 boutique wineries.
Following the tastings, the group will savor a gourmet 75-minute lunch at a popular local restaurant, complemented by regional wines or beer.
The tour also includes additional winery visits catered to the group’s preferences, as well as luxury door-to-door transfers and all tasting fees.
With its small group size, exceptional inclusions, and highly rated reviews, the Boutique McLaren Vale Wine Tour with Lunch promises an unforgettable exploration of this world-class wine destination.
Read our full review: From Adelaide: Boutique Mclaren Vale Wine Tour With Lunch Review
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McLaren Vale: Small Group Wine Tour (Includes Lunch)
Those seeking a more intimate exploration of South Australia’s renowned McLaren Vale wine region can experience the McLaren Vale: Small Group Wine Tour (Includes Lunch).
This 8-hour tour, limited to just 8 participants, provides a personalized journey through the area’s iconic and boutique wineries, distilleries, and breweries. Priced at $120.67 per person, the tour includes complimentary pickup from Adelaide, Glenelg, or McLaren Vale, as well as a delicious regional lunch platter.
Guests will enjoy wine tastings, a visit to the d’Arenberg Cube, and chauffeured transportation in a luxury Mercedes Benz Valente. With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 84 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and memorable experiences.
Travelers can book now and pay later, making it a flexible and convenient option for exploring the best of McLaren Vale.
Read our full review: McLaren Vale: Small Group Wine Tour (Includes Lunch) Review
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The Sum Up
McLaren Vale offers an impressive array of wine tour options, from sensory experiences to e-bike tours. Visitors can explore the region’s renowned wineries, savor its exceptional wines, and enjoy breathtaking views. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a unique experience, there’s a McLaren Vale wine tour to suit your preferences.