Imagine spending a whole day exploring one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions, comfortably transported in a sleek Mercedes Benz V-Class, with the opportunity to meet local winemakers, taste exceptional wines, and enjoy a delicious lunch. At $214 per person for 7 hours, this private tour offers a tailored experience that’s perfect for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet informative look into Coonawarra’s renowned terroir.
What we love most about this tour is how personal and flexible it feels—you’re not just another passenger on a big bus. Instead, you’re whisked around private vineyards and historic cellar doors, with guides who genuinely want to share their knowledge and passion. The choice of visiting the region’s first winery, Wynns Coonawarra Estate, built in 1896, immediately sets a tone of tradition and authenticity. Plus, the included set-menu lunch, featuring seasonal produce at a local restaurant, adds a gourmet touch that makes the day truly special.
That said, it’s worth noting that this experience is designed for those who enjoy a leisurely pace and a more intimate setting. If you’re after a quick tasting or traveling outside the Penola and Coonawarra regions, this tour might not be the best fit. But for those seeking a relaxed, immersive wine journey, it’s a perfect match.
This tour caters best to wine lovers, history buffs, and travelers who appreciate comfort and personalized service. It’s especially suited for those who want to learn about Coonawarra’s winemaking heritage while enjoying some of the region’s best offerings.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Private tours mean you get a tailored day with your own guide and vehicle.
- Historic and Authentic: Visit the region’s first winery and learn about generations of winemaking.
- Expert Guides: Guides like Simon are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
- Taste and Explore: Up to five cellar doors provide ample tasting opportunities in a relaxed setting.
- Comfort and Convenience: Luxury transport, including bottled water and umbrellas, ensure a smooth day.
- Gourmet Lunch: A beautifully prepared, seasonal set menu complements the wine tastings.
An In-Depth Look at the Coonawarra Private Wine Tour
Planning more time in Coonawarra? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour kicks off with pickup from your hotel in Coonawarra or Penola, ensuring you don’t have to worry about logistics. The transportation is a highlight—your guide and driver will pick you up in a luxurious Mercedes Benz V-Class, offering both comfort and style. This vehicle is more than just a ride; it sets the tone for a relaxed, upscale experience, allowing you to settle in and enjoy the scenic drive through the iconic Terra Rossa soil.
Having your own private vehicle means the day is flexible: you’re not bound by the group schedule, and your guide can adapt the pace based on your interests. The inclusion of bottled water and umbrellas on board makes for a thoughtful touch, especially if the weather turns.
Visiting Wynns Coonawarra Estate
The first stop is Wynns Coonawarra Estate, established in 1896, and the region’s very first winery. Wandering through its historic cellars and tasting rooms, you get a sense of the deep roots of winemaking here. This winery is a must-see for its significance and classic offerings. As one reviewer put it, the experience at Wynns “set a tone of tradition and authenticity,” making it a memorable introduction to the region.
Meeting Local Winemakers
A key feature of this tour is the chance to meet local winemakers. Unlike large, impersonal tasting rooms, you’ll have the opportunity to chat with those who craft the wines. Guides like Simon are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, making the tastings engaging and informative. Expect to sample a range of wines, from reds to whites, and hear stories about the region’s winemaking evolution.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Scenic Drive and Vineyard Views
Traveling along the famous Terra Rossa strip, you’ll get a chance to admire the rolling vineyards—each row a testament to the region’s rich soil and climate that make Coonawarra’s wines so distinctive. The windows are large, so you can enjoy the views as your guide shares insights into the area’s agricultural history and how the land influences the wine.
Cellar Door Tastings
You’ll visit up to five cellar doors, each offering a chance to taste a variety of wines and learn about different styles. The guided nature of the tour ensures you’re not rushed; guides often help you understand the nuances of each wine, whether it’s a bold Cabernet or a delicate white. As one traveler remarked, “Simon was fantastic and so were his dad jokes,” highlighting how guides combine expertise with a relaxed, personal touch.
Lunch in Style
No wine tour is complete without a good meal, and this tour’s set menu luncheon exceeds expectations. The dining venue is described as magnificent, with seasonal produce that complements the wines perfectly. It’s a chance to relax, share impressions from the morning, and soak in the region’s culinary side. The food is thoughtfully prepared, elevating the overall experience.
End of the Day and Drop-off
After a full day of tasting, learning, and enjoying the scenery, you’ll be dropped back at your hotel. The tour’s relaxed pace ensures you won’t feel rushed, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on your experiences and perhaps plan your next visit.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
At $214 for 7 hours, this private tour provides a lot of value. The price covers transportation, tasting fees, the guided experience, and a quality lunch. Compared to larger group tours, the private setting allows for a more personalized experience, with guides who are genuinely invested in sharing their knowledge.
The inclusion of up to five cellar door visits means you get a comprehensive tasting experience without additional costs. Having your own guide also means you can ask specific questions about wine styles, pairings, or regional history—something you might miss on less personalized tours.
The Authentic Experience
What sets this tour apart is its focus on authenticity. Visiting historic wineries like Wynns and meeting the people behind the wines offers a behind-the-scenes feel. The guided tasting sessions help you understand what makes Coonawarra wines unique, especially the region’s signature Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Guide and Company
Reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor. Simon, in particular, is described as “fantastic,” with a great sense of humor and a genuine desire to help you find wines you’ll love. Having someone who’s passionate and personable can transform what might be a standard tasting into an engaging experience.
Flexibility and Comfort
The private nature means you can customize the day a bit—perhaps spending more time at a favorite vineyard or skipping one if you prefer. Plus, traveling in a comfortable vehicle with amenities ensures you’re relaxed throughout.
Suitable For…
Wineries, casual wine lovers, or those wanting an in-depth look at Coonawarra’s history will find this tour perfect. Because children under 18 aren’t allowed, it’s best suited for adults. The tour also appeals to those who appreciate quality over quantity and want a more exclusive experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a personalized, well-rounded look at Coonawarra’s wine scene, this private guided tour ticks all the boxes. The combination of historic wineries, engaging guides, scenic drives, and a delicious lunch makes for a memorable day.
The experience is particularly valuable for those who want to learn about the region’s winemaking heritage while enjoying the comfort of private transport. It’s a good choice for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a relaxed, informative day without the bustle of large tours.
While the cost might seem higher than some group options, the added comfort, personalized attention, and quality of experiences make it a worthwhile investment—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge your love of wine.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from hotels located in Coonawarra and Penola, making logistics simple and stress-free.
Can I visit more than five wineries?
The tour visits up to five cellar doors, which balances ample tasting with a relaxed pace. Visiting additional wineries would likely extend the day or require a different arrangement.
Is there a set start time for the tour?
Yes, you can check availability for starting times, and the tour lasts approximately 7 hours. The specific schedule may vary depending on your booking.
Are drinks with lunch included?
No, drinks with lunch are not included in the price. However, tasting fees and wine purchases are covered during the tour.
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not allowed on this tour. It’s designed for adult wine enthusiasts seeking a mature experience.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothing, a jacket for variable weather, and curiosity about Coonawarra’s wines and history are all you need. The vehicle is equipped with umbrellas for rain or shine.
To sum it up, this private full-day wine tour in Coonawarra offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances history, taste, comfort, and authenticity. It’s best suited for travelers who value intimacy and expert guidance, making it an ideal way to explore one of Australia’s most distinguished wine regions in style. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about the world of vineyards, this journey promises a memorable taste of Coonawarra’s past and present.
You can check availability for your dates here: