From the sheer cliffs of the Moselle Valley in Germany to the historic Loire Valley in France, the World’s Best Vineyards Top 50 list identifies the best of the best.
This year, Australia secured three slots in the prestigious countdown, alongside some of the most well-established wineries across Portugal, Argentina, Italy and even Russia. These South Australian vineyards came in at number 37, 31 and 25 – and we can’t wait to visit them in person.
Penfolds Magill Estate
Coming in at number 37 in the Top 50 is Penfolds Magill Estate. Although holdings have expanded over time, the core Magill Estate is a single vineyard monopole, planted exclusively to Shiraz.
Its proximity to Adelaide makes it one of the world’s few urban wineries. It’s also a wonderful foodie destination. Guests can look out at the vineyards through the Magill Kitchen Brunch Spot or fine dining Magill Restaurant.
The cellar door is open for a variety of tastings with a social held on the first Tuesday of every month, guiding guests through a selection of the estate’s portfolio from the prized Shiraz to tasty Brandies.
D’Arenberg
One of the most well-down South Australian vineyards, D’Arenberg took out the number 31 slot and is a must-visit on any McLaren Vale wine tour.
Australia’s very own Willy Wonka of Wine has turned his family’s McLaren Vale Estate into a veritable extravaganza. It’s a feast for all the senses and just 45 minutes from Adelaide.
Experiences at D’Arenberg are almost as flamboyant as winemaker Chester Osborne’s wardrobe. An estate brimming personality that nonetheless respects a 109-year heritage, that places it among the country’s prestigious first families of wine.
Many visitors make a stop at D’Arenberg to see the famous D’Arenberg Cube – a marvel of modern architecture with something whacky and wonderful on every level.
Henschke
The highest ranking Australian vineyard on this year Top 50 Wold’s Best Vineyards list, Henschke came in at number 25.
The Henschke family’s Eden Valley estate is home to some of Australia’s oldest and most cherished vineyards, including the fabled Hill of Grace and Mount Edelstone.
Outstanding Shiraz and Riesling are made by the fifth and sixth generation of winemakers with a focus on single sight expressions that tell the story of the land and the people that made them.
With tastings personally hosted by the family, visits here are very special occasions.
To find out which other wineries made the World’s Best Vineyards Top 50 list, check out the video below:
The Top 50 list is packed with exceptional vineyards who offer more than just fabulous wine tasting. You can take 4WD tours across the properties, mountain bike through the vineyards, and relax at the spa in the aromas of essential oils grown on the property.
A few worth a stalk are Argentina’s Bodega SuperUco with its fascinating circular vine formations; Abadía Retuerta in Spain where visitors could spend days on end exploring the grounds; and Antinori Nel Chianti Classico in Italy, for a quintessential Italian experience and absolutely breathtaking architecture.
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