This wine region is located in the Mount Lofty Ranges east of Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia. Stretching in a narrow band approximately 70km long, the highest vineyards are sited between 600-650 metres altitude in areas such as Crafers,
This wine region is located in the Mount Lofty Ranges east of Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia. Stretching in a narrow band approximately 70km long, the highest vineyards are sited between 600-650 metres altitude in areas such as Crafers, Summertown, Piccadilly and Carey Gully.
The Adelaide Hills is one of the largest geographical wine regions in Australia, and amongst the most diverse in terms of climate, soil and topography. The region consists of two registered sub-regions, Lenswood and Piccadilly Valley.
The key grapes here are Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Semillon, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir; the latter two also go into the region's sparkling wines. The white still wines are characterized by clean and fresh varietal flavors and crisp natural acidity.
The long and cool growing season also reliably ripens red grapes in most years, when grown in the right locations. Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot are the other prominent red wine varieties. Key to the region's grape growing is the altitude of its vineyards, which range from 400 to 650 meters (1,300 to 2,100ft). This gives the region - in an Australian context - a cool climate,.
