The Limestone Coast wine region in South Australia comprises several sub-regions, including Coonawarra, Mount Benson, Mount Gambier, Padthaway, Robe, and Wrattonbully. Each sub-region features unique climatic conditions and varietals, contributing to the diverse range of wines within the Limestone Coast.
Coonawarra, the southernmost wine district in South Australia, experiences a predominantly maritime climate with dry and moderately cool summers. Known for its terra rossa soil, Coonawarra specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon but also produces Chardonnay, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Pinot noir, Riesling, Sauvignon blanc, Semillon, and Shiraz. In contrast, Mount Benson wines are fruitier and less tannic, focusing on Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Padthaway, formerly Keppoch, features a slightly warmer climate than Coonawarra with a maritime influence, excelling in white wine production, particularly Chardonnay. It also produces Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Verdelho, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec. Robe, near Mount Benson, enjoys a cool maritime climate influenced by the Southern Ocean and nearby lakes, cultivating mainly Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillon.
Wrattonbully, situated between Coonawarra and Padthaway, boasts higher elevation vineyards with well-drained soils, primarily focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon complemented by Shiraz, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Tempranillo.