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Adelaide Hills

It’s rare to find a capital city where you can drive 20 minutes from the CBD and be smack-bang in the middle of rolling vineyards, grand vistas and ancient gums. Adelaide Hills is literally on Adelaide’s doorstep and it boasts some of Australia’s best-known wineries, cracking boutique operators and an exciting, natty wine scene. With the recent devastating bushfires, now is the time to visit and support the winemakers here.

Pfeiffer Wines

Star Cellar Door

(03) 6033 2805
pfeifferwines.com.au

Chris Pfeiffer originally arrived in Rutherglen as fortified winemaker for Seppelt. When Seppelt closed its doors, Pfeiffer stayed buying the company’s old distillery at Wahgunyah. It was fortuitous, for Pfeiffer not only created his own brand, but remained steadfast in his commitment to fortifieds. He was instrumental in introducing the Australian Fortified Wine Awards, helping seal (as if needed) the region’s claim to making some of the best fortifieds in the world.

The chance of a fortified masterclass with Pfeiffer or his talented winemaker daughter, Jen, during the annual Winery Walkabout or Tastes of Rutherglen festivals – anytime – is to be jumped upon. Their knowledge is astounding. Under Robyn Pfeiffer’s friendly guidance, a visit to the cellar door feels like a homecoming.

Jen knows what she wants in a wine whether it is under her own label, Rock It Like A Redhead, or part of her family’s brand. Her ability with shiraz remains underrated. JENI PORT

OUTSTANDING WINE: NV Pfeiffer Grand Rutherglen Topaque, A$84

Rutherglen Estates
BEST LARGE CELLAR DOOR

(02) 6032 7999
rutherglenestates.com.au

Jones Winery & Vineyard
BEST SMALL CELLAR DOOR

(02) 6032 8496
joneswinery.com

Cofield Wines/Pickled Sisters Café
CELLAR DOOR WITH BEST FOOD

(02) 6033 3798
cofieldwines.com.au

Shaw + Smith
BEST LARGE CELLAR DOOR & Additional Cellar Door Experience (FRIDAY TABLE)

(08) 8398 0500
shawandsmith.com

Ashton Hills Vineyard
BEST SMALL CELLAR DOOR

(08) 8390 1243
ashtonhills.com.au

Golding Wines
Best Tasting Experience

(08) 8189 4500
goldingwines.com.au

Penfolds Magill Estate
Cellar Door with Best Food

(08) 8301 5569
penfolds.com

Longview Vineyards
Cellar Door with Best Accommodation

(08) 8388 9694
longviewvineyard.com.au