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Chateau Tanunda History

Chateau Tanunda boasts a rich history, intertwined with the very beginnings of winemaking in Australia's famous Barossa Valley. Here's a glimpse into its fascinating journey:

  • Pioneering Spirit: Founded in 1890, Chateau Tanunda claims the title of the Barossa's first winery. Vines even predate the winery, planted on the site in 1847.
  • Grand Vision: Inspired by European chateaux, the founders aimed to create a grand estate dedicated to crafting world-class wines. Their vision led to the construction of the majestic bluestone winery, a landmark that stands today.
  • Early Success:  Chateau Tanunda quickly rose to prominence, becoming the largest winery in the Southern Hemisphere at the time.  They exported not only wine but also brandy, establishing a strong reputation.
  • Shifting Ownership: The Seppelt family took ownership in 1916, guiding the winery through much of the 20th century. In 1998, the Geber family acquired Chateau Tanunda, embarking on a restoration project and propelling it back to its former glory.
  • Legacy of Quality: Today, Chateau Tanunda remains a leader in Barossa Valley winemaking. With over 130 years of experience, they continue to produce exceptional wines, drawing grapes from both estate vineyards and trusted growers across the region.

Chateau Tanunda's story is one of ambition, resilience, and a dedication to quality. It's a testament to the Barossa Valley's rich winemaking heritage and a must-visit for any wine enthusiast exploring the region.

Penfold's History

From Humble Beginnings to Fortified Fame (1844-1940s):

  • 1844: Dr. Christopher Penfold and his wife Mary set sail for South Australia, bringing vine cuttings and a dream. They planted their first vines at Magill Estate, near Adelaide, laying the foundation for Penfolds.
  • Focus on Fortifieds: Early success came with fortified wines, a popular style at the time. Mary Penfold is credited with playing a key role in this initial period.
  • Growth and Expansion: By the early 20th century, Penfolds became South Australia's largest winery, known for its high-quality fortified wines.

Shifting Focus and the Birth of Grange (1940s-present):

  • Changing Tastes: Recognizing a shift in consumer preferences, Penfolds began producing table wines alongside fortifieds in the 1940s and 50s.
  • Max Schubert and Grange Hermitage:  A pivotal moment arrived in 1951 with the creation of Grange Hermitage by Max Schubert. This Shiraz-based wine, initially deemed unconventional, became a revolutionary icon, challenging traditional styles and establishing Penfolds on the global stage.
  • Innovation and Expansion:  Penfolds continued to innovate, with a focus on experimentation and sourcing grapes from diverse regions. This approach led to the creation of other acclaimed wines like Bin 389 Cabernet Sauvignon.
  • Modern Era: Today, Penfolds remains a leader in Australian wine, with a portfolio encompassing classic and contemporary styles. They are owned by Treasury Wine Estates but retain their commitment to quality and a legacy of pushing boundaries.

McLaren Vales History

McLaren Vale boasts a rich winemaking history dating back to the very beginnings of South Australian wine. Here's a condensed version for SEO purposes (under 600 characters):

Pioneering Vines (1830s):  European settlers planted the first vines in McLaren Vale in the late 1830s, soon followed by established wineries like Reynella (1838) and Hardy (1853).

Early Focus:  Early McLaren Vale wines were bold, dry table wines catering to the export market. By the 20th century, fortified wines rose in popularity, leading to a shift in production.

Post-War Innovation:  A resurgence of table wine interest in the 1950s saw McLaren Vale flourish. Immigrant winemakers, particularly Italians, brought new grape varieties and techniques, shaping the region's character.

Modern McLaren Vale:  Today, McLaren Vale is renowned for its diverse portfolio. Shiraz, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon reign supreme, but exciting experimentation with Fiano, Tempranillo, and more is pushing boundaries. McLaren Vale's dedication to quality and innovation continues to secure its place as a world-class wine region

Adelaide Hills Wine History 

Hahndorf and the Adelaide Hills share a fascinating intertwined history when it comes to wine:

Early Vines (1840s):  Just a few years after the first vines were planted in South Australia (1836), German settlers arriving in Hahndorf and Lobethal around 1842 brought their own winemaking traditions.  They likely planted vines soon after establishing their new homes.

Dual Character:  Hahndorf's wine story is unique. While the focus shifted away from large-scale wine production over time, the German influence lives on in small-batch, traditional styles. Meanwhile, the Adelaide Hills region around Hahndorf blossomed into a respected cool-climate wine region in the 20th century.

Rise of the Adelaide Hills:  The Adelaide Hills, with its cooler temperatures and diverse soils,  proved ideal for varieties like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. Pioneering wineries like Henschke, established in 1853, played a crucial role in this development.

Hahndorf's Niche Today:  Hahndorf's Hahndorf Hill Winery, established in 2002, exemplifies the area's modern approach. They specialize in Austrian grape varieties like Grüner Veltliner, a unique twist on the region's offerings.

A Blend of History and Innovation:  Together, Hahndorf and the Adelaide Hills offer a compelling wine experience. Visitors can discover both the deep-rooted German traditions and the exciting, innovative cool-climate wines produced in the surrounding Adelaide Hills.

Why choose us

Introduction

As a passionate Australian in the hospitality and tourism industry since 1983, taking care of people has been my guiding principle for nearly four decades. That's why I founded Wine Valley Tours in 2015, crafting unforgettable wine experiences tailored just for you.

Visiting up to 5 venues

Since our launch in 2015, Wine Valley Tours has cultivated strong relationships with wineries across the region. This allows us to curate exceptional day tours that showcase the very best each wine region has to offer. While time is precious, with our carefully crafted itineraries, we can visit up to 5 incredible venues in a single, fun-filled day. Each tour is meticulously planned to ensure you experience a delightful contrast of wineries, indulge in delectable wines, and receive exceptional value – all within a comfortable 7-hour timeframe.

  • Privacy:  The Valente is a large people mover with plenty of space to spread out  compared to a traditional car. This can provide some privacy for the couple while traveling.
  • ** Seating for Six Adults Facing Each Other:** The Valente has multiple seating configurations, including the option for bench seating in the back that allows six adults to sit facing each other. This can be a great way to socialize and have fun on a road trip.
  • Quality Sound System: Mercedes-Benz is known for its luxury interiors and high-quality sound systems. The Valente should be no exception, providing a great audio experience for everyone on board.