This place is a gem. Tiny and chock-a-block full of rustic character with sweeping views, Samuel’s Gorge was established in 2003, when Justin McNamee converted an 1853 farm shed overlooking the Onkaparinga River National Park.
There is a great range of wines for tasting: grenache, tempranillo, mourvèdre, graciano and shiraz, and it is the perfect place to spend some time. In winter there is nothing better than thawing out the bones in front of the fire and in the warmer months, that view and a spot to sit outside beckon.
Sure, there are cellar doors that have more bells and whistles, but visiting Samuel’s Gorge feels like you have been let in on a secret, getting a laid-back tasting experience with awesome wines and views and lovely staff who make you feel a part of the family.
It’s a visit that will remain in the memory long after the taste of the wines has receded and you’ll be hatching plans to return to this enticing slice of Australia. This is no quick cellar door visit; this is somewhere to linger, to soak in the wines, hospitality and experience. David Brookes