When I had the opportunity to visit the Barossa Valley wineries, I was lucky to have not one, but upwards of five local guides. Men and women who love a good taste test as much as they enjoy long lunches in the sunshine and afternoons by the pool. To say I had the inside tip would be an understatement.

So, I’m sharing the love.

My guides put together an itinerary that was more of an iron man level marathon than a sprint. You can read more about my adventure, and a see a few more photos on the post. Feel free to stretch your visit out over a few more days. I know that I plan to go back and do it all again. Spend more time, certainly eat more things.

A local’s guide to Barossa Valley wineries, let’s go!

Pindarie Winery

This was the first of the Barossa Valley wineries that we visited and WOW, what a start. The setting was stunning, the wine was plentiful and they have a stunning eating area perfect for lunch or celebrations. We saw both happening while we were there, actually. For our rather large group, it was a great venue {book ahead, people} but I can see it being just as perfect for two. Find Pindarie Winery online here.

Taste of Eden Valley

Easily my favourite stop on the adventure. The knowledge these guys have about local wines, delivered with personality and warmth in their beautiful garden, can’t be beaten. And I’m not just saying that because I broke one of their wine glasses. Really, I’m not. Home of one of my new favourite Sav Blancs, next time I’m in town, I’m going back. Find Taste of Eden Valley online here.

While you’re visiting the fine people at Taste of Eden Valley, make sure you walk down the street and visit Barossa Valley Cheese Company. Their cheese shop is what dreams are made of. Or maybe I was dreaming, who knows… Haha. It’s the cutest darn shop ever. Find The Barossa Valley Cheese Company online here.

Seppeltsfield Winery

This felt like the big gun of the wine tour we were on. This sprawling property had an art gallery, the tasting rooms, function rooms and a restaurant. It’s really something to behold. Heard of the restaurant Fino? This is its home. And what a home it is. But it’s not all looks and no substance here, the wine tasting was informative and pretty comprehensive. It was here I discovered my love of a great sparkling shiraz. Put it on your list, it’s a must-see. Find Seppeltsfiel Winery online here.

Hemera Estate Winery

For me, Hemera Estate Winery was easily the best wine tasting experience because it came with a tour of their facilities. As dusty as we were by this point, the group was mesmerised by the methods used to create the cause of troubles. Being able to walk through and learn more about traditional and modern practices was something I loved, I highly recommend seeing if you can do it too. Plus, as with all places in the Barossa Valley, it’s beautiful, I felt like I didn’t put my camera down the whole time. Find Hemera Estate Winery online here. 

Maggie Beer

Classic. Shit version. I’m not sure a trip to Barossa Valley Wineries could be complete without a visit to the Queen herself. It’s just the way it is. When we arrived it was raining and pretty chilly, but we enjoyed the farmhouse atmosphere and the look through the different spaces. Plus, despite the weather, ice cream was the order of the day and did not disappoint. Find Maggie Beer online here.

Not into wine? Try Barossa Valley Brewing

Short version? This place was soooo much fun. We ate lunch in the courtyard and listened to the band play. Literally, a band. I’m pretty sure there was an accordion involved. I’m not a beer drinker, but there was plenty of tasting board action at our table, and even more happy faces. A great venue for a fun afternoon or lunch, make sure you check it out. Find Barossa Valley Brewing online here.

There you go! I hope that will make planning your first or your next trip to Barossa Valley a little easier. Or maybe you’re local to the area and want to share a place you love with us as well? Feel free to leave it in the comments, the more the merrier.

Melissa Walker Horn

Hi! I’m Melissa Walker Horn. Around here, they call me Suger. I’m the Chief Blogger and doer of all the things here at Suger Coat It. Blogging since 1901; I love a casual ootd, taking photos, and writing about things that irk or inspire me. I love wine and cheese, long days at the beach and spending time with my family. I make stuff for the internet over at Chalkboard Digital. You know, living the sweet life.