Coonawarra is a standout destination for wine enthusiasts thanks to its famous “Terra Rossa” soil and cool-climate vineyards. Here, you can taste some of Australia’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon and explore historic wineries with stories stretching back over a century. Among the many options, we’re particularly fond of tours that blend delicious tastings with rich regional history, like the Coonawarra Highlights Wine Tour With Lunch. It offers a perfect mix of intimate visits, high-quality wines, and a gourmet platter, making it a top pick for those wanting a well-rounded experience. If you prefer a more private, full-day adventure, the Coonawarra: Private Full-Day Guided Wine Tour and Lunch stands out for its luxurious transport and personalized touches. For those eager to explore premium wines in a relaxed setting, the Katnook Estate: Icon Wine Tasting offers a focused, 1.5-hour session with exclusive wines and regional delicacies. Lastly, if you’re planning a broader Australian trip, the 3-Day Trip to Melbourne from Adelaide combines wine with sightseeing and wildlife.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of wine tours in Coonawarra, including half-day group experiences, private full-day excursions, exclusive tastings, and even a multi-day trip to Melbourne that includes regional wineries. Each offers a unique way to enjoy the region’s renowned wines, scenery, and local culture. Read on to find the perfect match for your travel style.
1. Coonawarra Highlights Wine Tour With Lunch
At number 1, this Coonawarra Highlights Wine Tour With Lunch is a fantastic choice for those wanting a comprehensive half-day experience. It combines visits to three key wineries—Patrick of Coonawarra, Wynns Coonawarra Estate, and Majella Wines—each with its own character and standout wines. What sets this tour apart is its focus on learning about the region’s history while enjoying wine tastings in a small, intimate group of up to 10 people. The highlight is the gourmet produce platter paired with a local wine, elevating the tasting experience beyond just sipping.
The itinerary includes cheese and food tastings at Patrick’s, a guided walk through Coonawarra Siding, and visits to prominent wineries, all within five hours. The guide shares stories about how the unique “Terra Rossa” soil shapes the wines, making it especially educational for first-timers or those wanting a relaxed yet insightful tour. This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a balanced mix of wine, food, and regional stories without the full-day commitment. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Coonawarra’s terroir and a few bottles to enjoy later.
Bottom line: Ideal for small groups, wine newbies, or anyone who wants a taste of Coonawarra’s best, with the flexibility of a half-day adventure.
2. Coonawarra: Private Full-Day Guided Wine Tour and Lunch
Number 2 on our list is the Coonawarra: Private Full-Day Guided Wine Tour and Lunch. This luxury experience offers an in-depth exploration of the region in a private Mercedes Benz V-Class vehicle, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The itinerary includes visits to historic wineries like Wynns Coonawarra Estate—built in 1896—and boutique estates such as Ottelia, with tastings at each stop.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach: your guide, with extensive local knowledge, tailors the day to your interests. The day also features an amazing luncheon with fresh seasonal produce, paired with local wines, and a visit to Petticoat Lane in Penola, a charming historic street. It’s a perfect choice for wine lovers who want to go beyond the standard tour and enjoy a luxury, private experience.
With six stops packed into seven hours, the tour balances wine tasting, regional sightseeing, and culinary delights. The reviews highlight how well-organized and personalized the experience feels—”a fantastic way to see and taste Coonawarra in style.” It’s best suited for those seeking a more exclusive, leisurely day with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and savor each moment.
Bottom line: Best for couples, groups celebrating something special, or anyone wanting a tailored, high-end experience.
3. Katnook Estate: Icon Wine Tasting and Regional Platter for 2
For a shorter, more intimate experience, the Katnook Estate: Icon Wine Tasting and Regional Platter for 2 is a perfect pick. In just 1.5 hours, you’ll taste five of Katnook’s most premium and limited wines, including their renowned Icon range, exclusively sourced from their estate. The signature tasting is hosted in a beautiful setting that emphasizes the estate’s dedication to craftsmanship.
What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to sample rare wines you won’t find elsewhere, along with a shared Limestone Coast Regional Platter. This pairing enhances the tasting, allowing you to appreciate the regional flavors alongside the wines. The reviews are positive, noting a focused, high-quality tasting that feels exclusive yet accessible.
Ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting an up-close look at top-tier wines, this experience suits couples or small groups who appreciate detailed tastings and regional food. Its relatively short duration makes it easy to combine with other activities or explore more of Coonawarra afterward.
Bottom line: Excellent for connoisseurs or couples seeking an intimate, premium wine experience.
4. From Adelaide: 3-Day Trip to Melbourne with Wine Tasting
Number 4 offers a different kind of trip—a 3-day journey from Adelaide to Melbourne that includes visits to regional wineries as part of a broader travel experience. This tour is perfect if you want to combine wine tasting with sightseeing, wildlife, and cultural exploration.
Over three days, you’ll visit notable wineries, explore Naracoorte Caves, and see native animals like kangaroos and koalas. The tour emphasizes authentic local artifacts and stays in ocean-view accommodations, making it ideal for travelers wanting a mix of nature, history, and wine. It’s a comprehensive way to experience Southern Australia’s diversity while enjoying some of the best wines in the region.
While less focused solely on wine, this trip offers a well-rounded experience for travelers who want a taste of Australian scenery and culture alongside their vino. It suits those with flexible schedules and an interest in a broader adventure.
Bottom line: Best for travelers looking for a multi-day, immersive trip that combines wine, wildlife, and scenic driving.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Coonawarra
When selecting your ideal Coonawarra wine tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interest in history or luxury. For a quick but rich taste, the Highlights Tour offers excellent value. If privacy and comfort top your list, the Full-Day Guided Tour provides a personalized experience.
For those wanting an intimate, premium tasting of rare wines, the Icon Wine Tasting is hard to beat. And if you’re combining your trip with other Australian adventures, the Melbourne trip could be your best option.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season (spring and autumn), and consider what type of experience will best match your interests—whether it’s a relaxed afternoon, a full-day private tour, or a multi-day exploration.
Final Thoughts
Coonawarra offers a broad spectrum of wine tours that suit different tastes and travel styles. If you’re after a guided half-day with food and history, the Highlights Tour is excellent. For a luxurious, private day, the full-day guided tour stands out. Connoisseurs will love the exclusivity of the Icon tasting, and those with extra days can combine wine, wildlife, and scenery on a longer trip to Melbourne.
All these experiences promise to deepen your appreciation for Coonawarra’s terroir and craftsmanship. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you’ll secure your spot in this premium wine region. Cheers to discovering some of Australia’s best wines!