Bleasdale
Star Cellar Door
(08) 8537 4000
bleasdale.com.au
The sense of history and tradition is palpable here. It gets me every time. When I see that enormous 1892, 3.5 tonne red gum lever press that looks like it has come from The Flintstones and the gorgeous hand-hewn red gum vats, I go all giddy. I just love wineries with a deep sense of tradition.
The recently refurbished cellar door has an airy feel and the friendly staff is more than happy to pass on some local knowledge so you can make the most of your visit to Langhorne Creek. There is a complimentary tasting of the standard range and fortifieds, and the prestige range is available for a small fee, redeemable upon purchases over $80. There is also the Beyond the Cellar Door tour where you can get to learn a little more about Bleasdale’s history and visit parts of the winery normally out of bounds.
Add in the fact winemaker Paul Hotker is in fine form and the range of wines are excellent across the board, and you’re in for an amazing experience. A visit here is to pay homage to some of the pioneers of the Australian wine industry and make sure you give that massive old red gum wine press a big hug. DAVID BROOKES
OUTSTANDING WINE: NV Bleasdale 16 Year Old Rare Verdelho, A$69