Today’s ventures focused on the Coonawarra, a region defined by its rich “terra rossa” soil, cool climate, and a winemaking history dating back to the late 1800s. This narrow strip of land has drawn pioneers, families, and visionary winemakers for generations, establishing Coonawarra as one of Australia’s most respected Cabernet Sauvignon regions.
With Kerry from Coonawarra Experiences leading the day, the adventure extended beyond wine tasting to include the stories and processes that shape the region. Early settlers such as John Riddoch recognised the potential of the land, laying foundations that still influence modern winemaking. Each winery we visited reflected a different chapter in Coonawarra’s evolution, from historic buildings and long-held family vineyards to contemporary custodians focused on sustainability, organic practices and regional expression.
The tour was enhanced by a delightfully small group of just six, allowing for relaxed tastings and meaningful conversation throughout the day. The group included (with nicknames in brackets): Tim (Stripes), Jesse (Jillian), Emmett (Lucius), and Michael (Daisy), whose shared enthusiasm contributed to a warm and enjoyable atmosphere.
An overview of the wineries visited, can be found below.
Koonara Wines
Koonara Wines is a small, family-owned winery rooted in Coonawarra’s famous terra rossa soil, with the Reschke family living on the property since 1906 and first planting vines in the late 1980s. Officially established as a winery in 1992, Koonara focuses on sustainability and organic viticulture, becoming the first certified organic winery in Coonawarra in 2017, producing wine with minimal sulphur and a strong expression of terroir.
Patrick of Coonawarra
Founded by Patrick Tocaciu, a respected winemaker with decades of industry experience, Patrick of Coonawarra released its first wines in 1998 from the Home Block vineyard. Patrick and his wife Jenny opened the cellar door in 2004, making premium Cabernet Sauvignon and other varietals that reflect the region’s distinctive terroir. After Patrick’s passing in 2013, his son Luke continued the family winery, further strengthening its reputation for handcrafted, high-quality wines. Lunch was phenomenal – a charcuterie platter packed with local delicacies and paired with wine of choice. Not a crumb was left!
Brand’s Laira
Brand’s Laira traces its heritage back to 1893, when Captain Henry Stentiford planted vineyards on the rich terra rossa soil and named the property after his beloved ship. In 1950, Eric Brand purchased the land and for many years worked as a local “blocker” selling fruit before producing his first wine under the Brand’s Laira label in 1966. Today it stands as an iconic Coonawarra winery with historic vineyards and award-winning wines such as One Seven One Cabernet (absolutely delicious but at $110 a bottle a little out of budget). The cellar door was built around an historic (private) wine collection, which was quite impressive to behold.
Wynns Coonawarra Estate
Wynns was probably the stand out cellar door for the day. Our host’s knowledge, zest and exuberance for the product was impressive and made for a wonderful tasting experience.
Wynns is one of Coonawarra’s most storied estates, founded on vineyards originally planted by Scottish pioneer John Riddoch in 1891, with the distinctive three-gabled winery completed in 1896. After a period of decline, Samuel and David Wynn purchased the estate in 1951, renamed it Wynns Coonawarra Estate, and championed the region’s potential. Crucially, they commissioned a Melbourne artist, Richard Beck, to create a woodcut of the winery facade, featuring the iconic three gables. This has appeared on Wynns labels ever since, making it one of Australia’s most recognisable wine symbols, tying the brand visually to its historic architectural roots. Wynns remains a benchmark of Coonawarra quality, known especially for its Cabernet Sauvignon and the emblematic gabled logo that tells a century-long story. My personal favourite wine of the day was “Michael’s Old Vine” Cabernet Sauvignon which simply outstanding. At $150 a bottle, it is easy to understand why.
DiGiorgio Family Wines
DiGiorgio Family Wines is built around one of Coonawarra’s oldest winery sites, originally known as Rouge Homme, with vinous activity in the district dating back to early 20th-century pioneers. In March 2002 the DiGiorgio family acquired this historic property, becoming stewards of the second-oldest winery in the region. Today they produce a broad portfolio of wines from Coonawarra and nearby Limestone Coast vineyards, blending traditional practices with family-run hospitality at their cellar door.
By the end of the day, our little group emerged from the Coonawarra, more than a little merry and with an appreciation of the area, not simply as a wine region, but as a living story shaped by soil, vines, and people.
Despite the 38oC heat, it really was the perfect way to spend the day.
Here are some of my favourite pictures from Day 3…
By Sarah 