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Your long weekend Barossa Valley wine tour
Take a tour of Australia’s favourite wine region without leaving home with these wines that are the best of the Barossa.
Just an hour’s drive from Adelaide, the Barossa Valley is home to some of the world’s best wine. Vineyards have been thriving in the region since 1842, and today there are more than 150 wineries nestled between the sloping hills and valley floors. But wherever you’re based in Australia, you don’t need to travel far to experience what some of the best vineyards in the Barossa Valley have to offer. To truly immerse yourself in this iconic region, all you need is a couple of glasses and a few favourite drops sourced from your local First Choice Liquor Market. From the valley’s big, bold golden child shiraz to the sophisticated, dry rieslings, follow our tips, then explore for yourself.
Yalumba
The striking silhouette of Yalumba’s historic marble and sandstone clocktower is immediately recognisable – from labels on shelf or up close and in person. But the vast history of this beloved Barossa winemaker extends far beyond the iconic monument. It’s been a family-owned operation for over 170 years, tracing back six generations to the first vine planting in 1849. Even today the company continues to craft their own oak barrels on site, which is a worldwide rarity.
Try this at home: From grenache and riesling to the classic Barossa shiraz, Yalumba is an all-rounder. The Yalumba SC Barossa Shiraz is the perfect place to start for a modern take on the timeless style.
What the experts say: “Velvety smooth tannins give way to a cracking finish. Another glass please?” Steve, First Choice Liquor Market Team Member, Balwyn
Grant Burge Wines
There’s a good reason Grant Burge is one of the biggest names in Australian wine. The backstory of the winemaking giant dates back to 1865 when Meshach Burge installed fermenting tanks in a shed on his family’s Barossa property. The range today expands from shiraz to mourvèdre blends, chardonnay, semillon and more, with an offering of 36 different premium wines.
Try this at home: A classic Barossa blend, the Grant Burge 5th Gen Barossa Cabernet Merlot is full-bodied and smooth, making it the ultimate dinner party companion (especially when pork is on the menu).
What the experts say: “This was a great accompaniment to my roast lamb the other night – the mint aromas made it perfect.” Stuart, First Choice Liquor Market Team Member, Ashburton
Pepperjack
Red lovers across the country will know the Pepperjack name – it’s known for its foolproof, trustworthy red wines that make the perfect pair for red meat, especially a good steak. Its first release was in 1998, though it was only available in bars, clubs and restaurants for the first five years. The range has come a long way, now widely recognised as one of Australia’s best-value bottles of red.
Try this at home: Keeping a bottle (or a box) of Pepperjack Barossa Shiraz on hand is a wise idea for frequent entertainers – it’s a firm favourite for its full body and notes of dark fruit.
What the experts say: “Brooding, dark red fruit with luscious chocolate notes. An all-round crowd pleaser!” Steve, First Choice Liquor Market Team Member, Balwyn
Saltram Wines
Yet another founding winery of the Barossa region, Saltram Wines released its first vintage in 1862 producing 8000 litres of shiraz – and they haven’t slowed down since. The name is recognised at home and abroad for its consistent and reliable reds, as well for being the working grounds where the legendary Peter Lehmann cut his teeth.
Try this at home: Rich on the palate with a silky finish, the lush Saltram 1859 Barossa Shiraz feels like an indulgent drop without the indulgent price tag.
What the experts say: “Barossa fruit with a touch of Eden Valley, this is contemporary shiraz at its finest.” Steve, First Choice Liquor Market Team Member, Balwyn
Peter Lehmann
A community-minded man with a legacy beyond measure, Peter Lehmann himself is an icon of the Barossa Valley, even nicknamed the ‘baron of the Barossa’. Today, Peter Lehmann Wines carries on his legacy, celebrating the region one wine at a time, from shiraz and cabernet sauvignon to less expected varieties such as tempranillo and pinot gris.
Try this at home: Get familiar with one of the Barossa Valley’s best whites and pick up a bottle of Peter Lehmann Wigan Riesling. This fine white has eight gold medals and four trophies to its name, with a lengthy and dry medium body you’ll fall in love with.
What the experts say: “Best Riesling In The World’ six times over, Wigan showcases all that is great about this grape. Utterly mind blowing.” Steve, First Choice Liquor Market Team Member, Balwyn
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