In the North of Adelaide, South Australia, several prominent wine regions offer unique characteristics and varietals, contributing significantly to the state's status as the country's most influential viticulture region, responsible for over half of Australia's wine production. The primary wine regions in the Northern part of Adelaide include Clare Valley and Adelaide Hills.
Clare Valley, located about two hours north of Adelaide, is renowned for its crisp white wines, notably Rieslings. With over 50 cellar doors and picturesque villages, visitors can enjoy a delightful wine-tasting experience surrounded by scenic landscapes. The region's slightly warmer climate compared to nearby areas allows it to excel in producing high-quality Rieslings, which make up a significant portion of its annual crush. In addition to Rieslings, Clare Valley also cultivates Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay.
Adelaide Hills, just 15 minutes from the city center, is celebrated for its cool-climate wines like Pinot Noir, Sparkling varieties, and Chardonnay. Positioned in the Mount Lofty Ranges, the region benefits from lower temperatures with increased elevation, resulting in grapes with excellent acidity and rich flavors. Boasting more than 60 wineries and 40 cellar doors, Adelaide Hills offers visitors a diverse selection of wines to taste and enjoy. Some notable wineries in this region include Shaw + Smith, Penfolds Magill Estate, and The Lane.