The Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia is a picturesque region known for its rolling hills, pristine beaches, and thriving wine industry. Located approximately 45 minutes south of Adelaide, the peninsula boasts a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm, dry summers, making it ideal for viticulture. The Southern Fleurieu region, in particular, is renowned for its diverse landscape and wine production. With undulating slopes and gentle hills, the area offers a variety of soil types, such as sandy loam over limestone subsoil and buckshot gravel over limestone, both of which are conducive to viticulture and moderately vigorous vine growth.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are two prominent varietals grown in the Southern Fleurieu region. Cabernet Sauvignon produces wines with gently herbaceous and tobacco characters, sweeter red and blackberry flavors, fine tannins, and medium body in warmer years. In addition to these varieties, the broader Fleurieu Peninsula region is home to over 85 different grape varieties, including Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Muscadelle, Durif Touriga Nacional Tinta Cao, Tempranillo, Aglianico, Saperavi, Sagrantino, Arneis, Zinfandel, Malbec, and Riesling. This diversity allows winemakers to experiment with various styles and techniques, contributing to the region's rich tapestry of wine offerings.
Beyond its vineyards, the Fleurieu Peninsula is a popular tourist destination offering stunning landscapes, award-winning restaurants, and cellar doors. Visitors can explore local wineries, taste a range of wines, and enjoy the peninsula's natural beauty.