Exploring Wineries in the Eden Valley and the Best Barossa Wine in South Australia

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Poonawatta Winery is located in the northwest of the Eden Valley region, just over an hour's drive from Adelaide. Set amongst the rolling hills, Poonawatta is home to some of the oldest Shiraz vines in the region.  

The original Poonawatta vineyard was planted in 1880, it was split from the rest of the property for soldier repatriations in 1922.  The Holt family reunited the parcels of land in 1971 and have cared for  the vines since.  

The original vineyard, planted to Shiraz, composes their top-level wine, the 1880 Shiraz. 

Their signature wine, the Poonawatta Estate The Cuttings Shiraz, is a must-try for all visitors. This rich, medium-bodied wine is a testament to the vineyard’s unique terroir and climate, where the warm days and cool nights nurture the grapes to perfection.  The small vineyard that creates this wine was planted from cuttings taken off the original 1880 plot, and will have you thinking your tasting a wine straight out of the Rhone Valley.  

Another can’t miss wine is the Eden Riesling; a dry style that pairs perfectly with bright seafood dishes.  

Casual tastings do not require booking, however the more in-depth experiences do need an appointment.  

On your visit to the Poonawatta cellar door you will be greeted by the fur hosts, Oscar and Charlie, who will bark feverishly until the car door opens, at which point they will become your best friends!

Flaxman Wines is another of our favorite wineries in the Eden Valley that offers something unique. This small, family-owned winery is nestled in the hills, and the owners are passionate about making wine from small, old-vine vineyards. 

They specialize in Riesling and Shiraz, and each wine is made with great care and attention to detail. A tasting at Flaxman Wines is not just a wine tasting but also an opportunity to meet Col and Fiona, who will guide you through there amazing wine lineup.  Be sure not to miss the Estate Shiraz!  

If you have the time, book in for their 3 course long lunch.  Besides being an amazing winemaker, Col is also a pretty accomplished chef!

Edenmae Estate Wines is a boutique first generation winery located at the southern end of the Eden Valley.  An all woman-run business, the wines here are elegant and approachable.  This place has become a bit of a hangout spot for locals, so look forward to some great chats while you’re here. 

Their vineyard is located on the eastern side of the Eden Valley, where the cool climate and well-draining soil nurture the grapes to produce a unique flavor that is a perfect reflection of the region. From their signature Riesling to the rich and complex Shiraz, Edenmae Estate Wines has something for every wine lover.  

The cellar door is only open Friday evening, then Saturday and Sunday so make sure to plan ahead.  If you’re lucky, winemaker Michelle will be behind the bar to pour for you!

Henschke is synonymous with Barossa Valley wine and is amongst the most famous of the wineries in the Eden Valley. This iconic winery has been producing world-class wines since 1868, and it's no wonder they are considered one of the best wineries in Australia. 

Henschke's Hill of Grace is perhaps the most famous wine in their collection, but their Eden Valley Riesling is also a delight to taste. While tasting here we were lucky enough to be able to taste multiple vintages of their Mount Edelstone Shiraz, a more European style cousin to the flagship Hill of Grace.  

Bookings are not required, but are highly recommended especially for the more in-depth tastings.