Barossa Valley: Red, White & Brew Tour

Introduction: A Unique Spin on the Classic Wine Tour

If you’re considering a trip to the Barossa Valley, you might think of endless vineyard visits and tasting rooms. But the Red, White & Brew Tour offers something a little different—and way more fun. For $118 per person, you get a comprehensive 8-hour experience that combines wine tastings at two distinct wineries, a visit to a gin distillery with award-winning spirits, a boutique brewery tour, and a delicious lunch made from regional produce.

What we love most is the balance of traditional wine tasting with craft spirits and beers—it’s perfect if you want a broader taste of Australia’s vibrant beverage scene. Also, the small group size means plenty of personal attention and good chat with the guide.

A potential consideration is that this is a full-day, activity-packed outing—so it’s best suited for those willing to be on the move. If you’re after a relaxed, leisurely day focused solely on wine, this might feel a bit busy. But for curious travelers looking to explore multiple facets of the region’s drinking culture, this tour hits the mark.

This experience caters well to adventurous wine lovers, craft spirit enthusiasts, or anyone eager to combine tasting with cultural insights and local flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse Experiences: Combines wine, gin, and craft beer for a well-rounded tasting day.
• Authentic Visits: Small, family-owned wineries and a historic brewery provide a genuine feel.
• Regional Lunch: Enjoy fresh, local produce with vineyard views—adding a true taste of the region.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable, humorous guides like Dave enhance the experience, making it engaging.
• Value for Money: All tastings, lunch, and transport included, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to explore.
• Flexible & Inclusive: Small groups and free time in Tanunda give you space to explore at your pace.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From City to Barossa

The tour kicks off with pickup from either Adelaide city at 9:00 am or Glenelg at 8:30 am. From there, you’ll hit the road in a comfortable vehicle, heading into the heart of South Australia’s renowned wine country. The drive itself is pleasant, and the guide often keeps the mood light with stories and local insights.

First Stop: Kies Family Wines

The journey begins at Kies Family Wines, a family-run operation with vines that are over 80 years old. The little cottage that once served as a Chaff Mill has been their cellar door since 1985, emphasizing quality over size. Here, you’ll experience the warmth of a family-owned vineyard that prides itself on not expanding just for volume—focusing instead on crafting better wines.

The tasting here covers a wide spectrum—from a dry Riesling to a sparkling rosé, and even some fortified wines. It’s a place where even the most casual wine drinker can find something to enjoy, and the guide’s insights make the experience more engaging. One reviewer loved the way their guide made everyone feel like part of the family, which adds a personal touch to the visit.

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Second Stop: Pindarie Wines

Next, you’ll head to Pindarie Wines, located at the western edge of the valley. Named after an Aboriginal word meaning “hilly place,” this family and sustainably run vineyard offers a different vibe—more relaxed, with sheep grazing alongside grapevines.

Inside the restored 1860s stables, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of award-winning wines, including a sparkling La Femme Rosé, a Fiano, and a Sangiovese Rosé. This stop is about savoring the local craftsmanship—you get a sense of the region’s diversity in wine styles. After the tasting, you’ll settle into a regional produce lunch with stunning vineyard views—a moment to relax and really take in the surroundings.

Free Time in Tanunda

After lunch, you have some free time in Tanunda, the historic hub of the valley. This is a perfect opportunity to stroll through shops, browse local galleries, or simply soak up the atmosphere. One guest appreciated the leisurely pace, noting, “We loved the chance to explore the town at our own speed.”

Gin and Beer: The Flavors of the Valley

The next stop is Seppeltsfield Rd Distillers, where you’ll taste their Barossa Shiraz Gin—a standout, having scored 99 points at the 2022 International Wine & Spirits Competition. It’s a sipping spirit that impresses even non-gin drinkers, thanks to its smoothness and complexity. The guide often shares fun anecdotes about the distilling process and the story behind the award-winning recipe.

Finally, the tour concludes at Greenock Brewers, a boutique brewery located in a historic wheat store. Here, you’ll meet the brewer and learn about the brewery’s commitment to small-batch, traditionally fermented beers using the German Beer Purity Law of 1516. You’ll sample their beers, which are crafted with care and attention to detail—an authentic taste of the region’s craft beer movement.

Ending the Day: Return to the City

After a full day of tasting, exploring, and enjoying regional cuisine, you’ll head back to Adelaide or Glenelg, arriving around 5:00 pm. It’s a relaxed finish to a busy day, giving you time to reflect on the variety of flavors and experiences.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the biggest draws is the variety of venues. Visiting two distinct wineries gives you a good sense of the region’s diversity, from Kies’s traditional family approach to Pindarie’s scenic and sustainable focus. The gin tasting is a delightful surprise; it’s not often you find a gin that scores nearly perfect points, and you’ll appreciate how innovative and local the spirits are.

The lunch is another highlight—regional produce served with vineyard views makes for a memorable meal. Plus, the small group size ensures that you’re not just a number; instead, you get personal attention and plenty of opportunities for questions and conversation.

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—notably “Dave,” who keeps the atmosphere light with humor and local stories that make the day both informative and entertaining. One caller described him as an “absolute champion”, highlighting how important a personable guide is to the overall experience.

The Value Proposition

At $118, this tour offers excellent value considering that all tastings, lunch, and transportation are included. You won’t have to worry about extra costs adding up, which often happens on less organized tours. Plus, the small-group format means more interaction and flexibility.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded taste of the Barossa, not just wines but also spirits and beers. It’s perfect for adventurous drinkers, couples, or groups who appreciate a personalized experience with a good dose of humor. If you prefer a structured yet relaxed day with plenty of authentic stops, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, if you’re a strictly wine-focused traveler or prefer a more leisurely pace, you might find the busy schedule a bit intense. But for most, the blend of tasting, exploring, and regional scenery makes for a memorable day in South Australia.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, your return transfers are included, with pickup from Adelaide or Glenelg.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 8 hours, typically starting at 8:30 or 9:00 am and returning by 5:00 pm.

Are all tastings included?
Absolutely, all tastings at wineries, the gin distillery, and the brewery are covered in the price.

Can I buy additional drinks during the tour?
The tour price covers tastings only; drinks to accompany lunch or additional purchases are not included.

Is this tour suitable for food allergies or dietary restrictions?
The lunch features regional produce, but you should check in advance if you have specific dietary needs.

What makes this tour different from other wine tours?
It combines wine, gin, and craft beer, plus free time in Tanunda, offering a richer, more varied experience than a typical wine-only outing.

Final Thoughts

This Barossa Valley: Red, White & Brew Tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting more than just wine. It’s a well-organized, engaging day that introduces you to the region’s diverse alcohol scene, all while providing delicious regional food and the chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The small-group setting with an experienced guide makes it personal and fun, ensuring you learn about the local culture as you sip and savour.

It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to explore multiple facets of South Australia’s beverage culture, especially those who enjoy informal, friendly tours with plenty of stories. If you value good value for money, authentic experiences, and a balanced itinerary, this tour will certainly deliver.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a spirit enthusiast, or simply looking for a day of relaxed exploration and tastings, this tour offers an enjoyable, flavorful journey through the iconic Barossa Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here: