We Rank The 15 Best Wine Tours In South Australia

South Australia stands out as a premier wine destination thanks to its diverse climates, rich terroirs, and historic vineyards. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious private tour through Coonawarra’s famous “Terra Rossa” soils or exploring the charming countryside of Clare Valley, this region offers a wealth of options for wine enthusiasts. We’ve sampled everything from intimate tastings at family-run wineries to full-day adventures that combine local food with exceptional wines. For example, the Private Coonawarra Full Day Wine Tour With Lunch offers a personalized experience with private tastings in style, perfect for those who want a tailored day in wine country.

If your goal is to enjoy small-group explorations with local guides, the Clare Valley Wine Tour delivers authentic stories, scenic views, and a relaxed pace, making it ideal for couples or intimate groups. Looking for a quick but quality experience? The Coonawarra Half Day Wine Tour With Lunch packs in premium cellar doors and a gourmet lunch, all in just a few hours.

Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of the top 15 wine tours, each with its own appeal and style, helping you choose the perfect match for your South Australian adventure.

1. Private Coonawarra Full Day Wine Tour With Lunch

At number 1, this luxurious private tour in Coonawarra is perfect for those who want to indulge. Traveling in a Mercedes-Benz V-Class, you’ll explore up to five notable cellar doors along the “Terra Rossa” strip. Highlights include visits to Parker Estate, renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zema Estate with its renovated cellar door and wide wine selection. The tour also includes a visit to Ottelia, where you can enjoy a set menu with seasonal dishes and sourdough pizza, and Wynns Coonawarra Estate, the most established winery in the district.

Rated 5.0/5 from 68 reviews, travelers love how seamless and personalized this experience feels, especially appreciating the private tastings and the quality lunch. Reviewers mention the stylish comfort and excellent winery staff. The tour costs around $233.10 per person for approximately 6.5 hours of tailored exploration, making it a premium choice for couples or small groups seeking exclusivity.

Bottom Line: A top-tier private experience for wine aficionados who value comfort, tailored visits, and great food.

2. Clare Valley Wine Tour. Local Guide, Clare Valley pickup, & lunch

Number 2 on our list offers an intimate, small-group journey through one of Australia’s most authentic wine regions. The tour is led by a local guide who knows the area inside out. Starting with a visit to the historic Sevenhill Cellars, established in 1851, you’ll taste wines from a winery owned by the Jesuits. The itinerary includes stops at Mitchell Wines, Claymore Wines for lunch and tastings, and charming colonial villages like Auburn and Mintaro.

Rated 5.0/5 from 61 reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guide Charles and the off-the-beaten-path stops. For around $150.62, this 6.5-hour tour offers a blend of history, small winery visits, and a delicious included lunch. It’s ideal for couples and small groups craving an authentic local experience without the crowds.

Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers who want a relaxed, authentic exploration with a personal touch and great local stories.

3. Coonawarra Half Day Wine Tour With Lunch

If you’re short on time but still want a quality experience, number 3 offers a curated half-day in Coonawarra. Starting with a visit to Patrick of Coonawarra, you’ll enjoy a full tasting and a gourmet produce platter, coupled with wine. Next, you’ll drop by Wynns Coonawarra Estate, the oldest winery in the district, for an engaging tour of their historic “Gables.” A selfie stop at Coonawarra Siding adds a fun photo opportunity and a taste of local history.

Rated 5.0/5 from 23 reviews, guests love the balance of wine, food, and sightseeing. For around $125.52, the 4.5-hour tour is a fantastic value for those wanting a taste of the region’s best wineries with a focus on quality over quantity.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a quick, well-rounded experience with excellent wines and food.

4. Wine Tasting Activity at Rymill Coonawarra

For a more relaxed and flexible experience, number 4 offers a self-guided tasting at Rymill Coonawarra’s cellar door. With about 45 minutes to explore, you’ll sample a variety of local vintages, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy the beautiful vineyard surroundings. Rymill is known for its approachable and well-made wines, making it a favorite among visitors wanting a no-pressure tasting.

Rated 5.0/5 from 18 reviews, this experience is perfect for those wanting to customize their tasting or just enjoy a quiet moment in the vineyard. At $231, it’s reasonably priced for a seated, curated tasting experience with the option to purchase snacks.

Bottom Line: Great if you prefer a flexible tasting without a structured tour, ideal for wine enthusiasts who want control over their experience.

5. Wine Tasting at our Cellar Door in Penola

Number 5 is a relaxed, family-run experience at Raidis Estate, located in Penola. This eco-friendly winery is solar-powered and perfect for those who like a laid-back vibe, with plenty of space for kids and outdoor activities. The tasting includes a selection of wines with tasting notes, and the friendly staff will help you choose your favorites.

Rated 5.0/5 from 12 reviews, visitors appreciate the casual atmosphere and the opportunity to try different varieties at their own pace. The $7.17 fee is redeemable against any wine purchase, making this a good value option for a spontaneous stop or a family outing.

Bottom Line: Best suited for families or casual wine tasters who appreciate an eco-conscious setting and relaxed atmosphere.

6. Barossa Valley: Pheasant Farm Wine Tasting Experience

For a quick, intimate tasting, Pheasant Farm Wines at Maggie Beer’s Farmshop offers a 30-minute guided tasting of some of the region’s most iconic wines. You’ll sample Shiraz, Cabernet, and more, while learning about the vineyard’s approach to winemaking. It’s a perfect stop during a broader day in the Barossa.

Rated 4.7/5 from 11 reviews, people enjoy the interactive format and the opportunity to taste well-known wines in a friendly setting. It’s a short stop, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule but wanting a quality experience.

Bottom Line: Excellent for a brief but informative taste of Barossa’s signature wines.

7. Shore Excursion: Barossa Valley Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour

Designed specifically for cruise ship passengers, this full-day tour makes the most of your limited time in port. It includes visits to Kersbrook Hill Wines & Cider, Barossa Valley Chocolate Factory, Maggie Beer’s Farmshop, and Chateau Dorrien. The schedule is tightly planned for maximum tasting and sightseeing.

Rated 5.0/5 from 2 reviews, travelers love its convenience and the variety of experiences packed into 8 hours. For $154.21 per person, it offers a comprehensive taste of the region with lunch included.

Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers wanting a hassle-free, well-organized day of wine and local treats.

8. The Florita Wine Tasting Experience

Located at Jim Barry Wines, this experience focuses on Riesling, a flagship variety of the region. You’ll taste current vintages at the Warilto homestead and enjoy a local produce platter, plus a back vintage tasting in the winery’s private room. It’s a niche experience for lovers of this noble grape.

Rated 3.5/5 from 3 reviews, some mention the intimate setting and the comprehensive tasting as highlights. At $143.45 for about 3 hours, it’s a specialized experience for those with an interest in Riesling.

Bottom Line: Best suited for Riesling aficionados and those wanting a deeper dive into one varietal.

9. Barossa Valley: Private Wine Bus Tour w/Hotel Pickup

For travelers seeking exclusivity, this private 8-hour tour offers tailored itineraries for groups of up to 11. You choose your preferred wineries or let your guide craft a personalized experience. It’s ideal for private groups celebrating something special or those who want control over their wine journey.

Rated 5/5 from 1 review, it’s a flexible and private way to explore the region comfortably. Pricing varies, but the full-day format provides good value for a customized experience.

Bottom Line: A top choice for private groups wanting a bespoke wine adventure.

10. Private Clare Valley Wine Tour – Exclusive, Local, Unforgettable

Number 10 is a fully private, tailor-made experience perfect for 2-4 guests. You’ll explore the region at your own pace, visiting wineries like Sevenhill Cellars, Sussex Squire, and Skillogalee. The guide adapts the itinerary to your interests, with plenty of time to chat and enjoy the scenery.

Rated 5.0/5, this tour costs around $302.07 per person for 6 hours of intimate, authentic exploration. It’s great for travelers wanting a personal, unstressed experience in Clare Valley.

Bottom Line: The best pick for couples or small groups seeking a personalized, private wine trip.

11. Skydive into Bremerton Wines + Wine Tasting in Langhorne Creek

For thrill-seekers, this skydiving experience combined with wine tasting at Bremerton Wines offers something totally different. Tandem skydiving at 220kph ends with a wine tasting in Langhorne Creek, making it perfect for adventure lovers.

Rated 0/5 from no reviews, it’s a niche activity for those who want an adrenaline rush and a memorable wine experience afterward. At $316.42, it’s a splurge for the adventurous palate.

Bottom Line: Not your average wine tour, but ideal for thrill-seekers wanting a unique story to tell.

12. Ship Shore Excursion: Private Tour: Adelaide City, choice Adelaide Wine Regions

This private 5-hour tour is tailored for cruise travelers. It combines city sights with a visit to a top wine region, customized to your preferences. Using a luxurious BMW, your private driver/guide ensures comfort and flexibility.

Rated 0/5, the experience is perfect for those who want a quick, personalized taste of local culture and wine. It’s a smart way to maximize port time.

Bottom Line: Excellent for cruise passengers wanting a flexible, private experience with quality highlights.

13. Kangaroo Island: Food and Wine Guided Day Tour

Kangaroo Island’s food and wine tour combines olive oil tastings, Pacific oysters, and gin. It features visits to The Islander Estate Vineyards and a gourmet picnic lunch, making it a full-day experience that appeals to lovers of both wine and local produce.

Rated without reviews, it’s ideal for those wanting a diverse culinary day with scenic island views.

Bottom Line: A standout choice for travelers wanting a full sensory experience on Kangaroo Island.

14. Clare Valley: Wine Tasting with Snacks at Watervale Hotel

This casual tasting at Watervale Hotel offers four wines paired with small snacks. It’s a relaxed, local setting perfect for a quick stop to learn about Clare Valley’s wine styles and climate.

No reviews are available, but it’s an accessible option for those who want a taste of local life without a big commitment.

Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick, easy introduction to Clare Valley wines.

15. Adelaide Hills: Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch Option

Number 15 offers an 8-hour tour exploring 4-5 wineries in the Adelaide Hills. With a focus on local wines and regional food, the tour includes a delicious lunch, pairing perfectly with the wine tastings.

While reviews are not listed, the format suits travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed day in the hills with insights into regional wine styles.

Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a full day of wine and food in a scenic, cool-climate region.

How to Choose Your Perfect South Australian Wine Tour

When selecting a wine tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you love exclusivity and personalized service, the Private Coonawarra Full Day Wine Tour or the Private Clare Valley Tour are unmatched. For a quick but quality experience, Coonawarra’s half-day and Rymill Tasting are great options. Budget travelers might appreciate the wine tasting at Raidis Estate, while adventure lovers could explore the skydiving + wine.

Book early, especially for popular tours and during peak season (spring and autumn). Consider whether you prefer small-group, private, or structured excursions, and pick accordingly.

Final Thoughts

South Australia offers a wide array of wine tours tailored to different tastes and budgets. For a truly indulgent day, the Private Coonawarra Full Day Wine Tour stands out with its combination of luxury and personalized service. If you want something more relaxed and authentic, the small-group Clare Valley Tour provides charming insights and scenic stops.

For the adventurous, the skydiving experience followed by wine tasting creates a memorable story, while cruise travelers will appreciate the convenience of tailored shore excursions.

No matter your style, South Australia’s wineries promise a memorable taste of this celebrated wine region. Be sure to book early to secure your spot and enjoy a wine adventure tailored just for you.