Mc Laren Vale
The McLaren Vale region is home to some of the oldest vines in the country dating as far back as 1850. The main grape varieties planted are Shiraz (55%), Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Chardonnay. The region produces 90% reds and 10% whites. Overall, the climate is Mediterranean, with cool sea breezes that help moderate high temperatures during the growing season. Cold winds from the hills also cool the grapes at some vineyard sites, helping to retain acidity and structure. Summers and most of autumn are dry, which helps combat vine diseases. It is therefore not surprising that there are more than a hundred wineries operating in the region, and most produce excellent wines. The climate is also suitable for olives and a few wineries produce olive oil outside the region.
Adelaide Hills
The area is particularly hilly and includes many valleys that create microclimates and even if Cabernet Sauvignon is able to ripen, the valley is much more suited to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Noir grapes. The proportion of white wines produced in the area is 60%. The climate is Mediterranean tempered by altitude. Many producers from warmer regions source grapes from this region for the production of white wines in particular.
