McLaren Vale

McLaren Vale was named after David McLaren, who arrived in the colony in 1837 and left in 1840. In 1841, John Reynell planted 500 vine cuttings near the present township of Reynella. A region entrenched with history, fine wine and fine food. The region consistency produces fine wines from a number of varieties, most importantly Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. McLaren Vale offers exceptional wines, regional produce and beautiful scenery nestled between the Mount Lofty Ranges and beaches of Gulf St Vincent.

LOCATION

50km South of Adelaide

TOPOGRAPHY

In the East, the land rises as high as 320 metres, but the flats mostly swell between 50-100 metres elevation. Different soil types can be found in this region, including terra rossa soils, light loam over clay, rendzina soils, soldolic, and Bay of Biscay soils. The soil type is generally quite poor with much of it sandy with a clay base. Drip irrigation helps where nature is lacking, although about 20% of the regions fruit is retained as “dry-grown” to encourage intense flavours.

CLIMATE

McLaren Vale has a Mediterranean climate with four clear seasons. With a dry warm Summer, the area has dry weather from December through to March or April, giving an easy change between summer and winter. It is gentle with long warm days and short cool nights. Winter rains of 580-700 mm per annum flow into a fresh spring. The region rarely experiences frost or drought due to its close proximity to the sea.