Aerial view of the winery looking back to McLaren Vale and Gulf St Vincent
1 / 10

Chapel Hill Winery

4.6
·188 reviews·McLaren Vale, Australia

Taste exceptional wines in a historic 1865 ironstone church, a unique McLaren Vale gem with passionate winemakers and sustainable practices.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Vibrant atmosphere, lively crowds

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Aerial view of the winery looking back to McLaren Vale and Gulf St Vincent

Chapel Hill Winery

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Vibrant atmosphere, lively crowds

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Taste exceptional wines in a historic 1865 ironstone church, a unique McLaren Vale gem with passionate winemakers and sustainable practices.

4.6
(188 reviews)

"An incredible afternoon at this magical place, leaving them with a full belly and a smile."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Your Tasting in Advance

Secure your spot for a personalized tasting, especially on weekends.

🍷 Generous Pours & Shipping

Enjoy generous wine pours and easy shipping options for your purchases.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Ironstone Church Tasting Room

Historic Ironstone Church Tasting Room

Cellar Door

Taste exceptional wines within the walls of a beautifully preserved 1865 ironstone church.

Instagram
The Vicar Shiraz

The Vicar Shiraz

Wine List

Savor their flagship red, a Grenache from McLaren Vale, renowned for its passion and love for grapes.

Instagram
Sustainable Farming Practices

Sustainable Farming Practices

Vineyards

Experience wines crafted with a commitment to sustainability, reflecting the winery's dedication to the environment.

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tasting Experience

Chapel Hill Winery offers a unique tasting experience inside a historic ironstone church. Booking ahead is highly recommended, especially for weekend visits, to secure your spot and ensure a personalized tasting with their knowledgeable staff. Reddit

Embrace the McLaren Vale Charm

Chapel Hill Winery is a must-visit in the McLaren Vale region, known for its passionate winemakers and sustainable practices. Allow ample time to savor the wines and the picturesque setting. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, lively crowds
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
More intimate tasting experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you eaten inside an old train station? Thai Station is located in Carrboro (Chapel Hill’s neighboring cool town). We go about every three weeks and even had our wedding rehearsal here. They have the best coconut cake!
@lindaeatsworld
2.8K likes • 56.5K views

🎯 Book Your Tasting in Advance

Secure your spot for a personalized tasting, especially on weekends. Reddit

🍷 Generous Pours & Shipping

Enjoy generous wine pours and easy shipping options for your purchases. Reddit

From grape to glass 🍇 We visited Chapel Hill Winery to learn, taste, and highlight our local supplier.
watermarkglenelg
39 likes • 816 views
Experience the taste of luxury with our Chapel Hill Winery Hamper.🍷🧀🎁✨ Shop now 👉 www.gifthampersmelbourne.com.au #ChapelHillWinery #WineLovers #CelebrateInStyle"
gifthampersmelbourne
0 likes • 4 views

🧀 Pair with Local Cheeses

Enhance your tasting with delicious cheese platters, a must-try! Reddit

🚗 Must-Visit McLaren Vale Gem

A top recommendation for any McLaren Vale itinerary. InstagramReddit

Today's wine is an Australian Grenache from McLarens Chapel Hill Winery. Chapel Hill first produced wines in 1975. During the 1980s and 90s, winemaker Pam Dunsford was prominent in her winemaking skills. Thereby making Chapel Hill into a well-known, much loved winery. Since then, the winery has adopted sustainable farming techniques to ensure the vineyards last for many years while not harming t...
todays_wine_review
72 likes • 392 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Your Tasting in Advance

Secure your spot for a personalized tasting, especially on weekends. Reddit

🍷 Generous Pours & Shipping

Enjoy generous wine pours and easy shipping options for your purchases. Reddit

🧀 Pair with Local Cheeses

Enhance your tasting with delicious cheese platters, a must-try! Reddit

🚗 Must-Visit McLaren Vale Gem

A top recommendation for any McLaren Vale itinerary. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(188 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Chapel Hill Winery for its unique historic church tasting room, welcoming staff, and generous pours. The quality of the wines, particularly 'The Vicar' Shiraz, and the picturesque McLaren Vale setting are frequently highlighted as major draws. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some note that while wines are 'nice,' they might not be 'great' for every palate, though this is subjective. InstagramReddit

"Went here with our tour group and we were all made to feel very welcome. We went down the back into a beautiful room that had the amazing stained glass window shown in photos.

A great selection of wines to taste and they were super generous with their pours.

It was very easy to purchase wines and have the offer available for them to post back home for us. Even threw in a couple of the pourers which was amazing, thank you.

A must visit winery in the McLaren Vale region."

Tracey Ford

"Excellent location. Definitely worth a visit. All wines were nice - but just nice and not great. However, everyone's taste id different so give it a shot. Staff was lovely."

Ca Bi

"Visited Chapel Hill Winery on Sunday morning and had an exceptional experience. The staff were welcoming and knowledgeable, guiding us through their impressive selection of wines. The highlight was undoubtedly their 2021 Small Batch Zinfandel—a delicate wine with notes of cherry, cranberry, plum, rhubarb, and musky spice. The winery's commitment to sustainable farming practices adds to its charm. The picturesque setting and quality wines make it a must-visit destination"

John Sharpe

What People Like

Historic church tasting room
Welcoming and knowledgeable staff
Generous wine pours

What People Dislike

Wines 'just nice' for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chapel Hill Winery is located in the McLaren Vale region of South Australia. It's best accessed by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors arrive as part of organized wine tours from Adelaide, which often include stops at multiple wineries. Instagram

Public transport options to McLaren Vale are limited. While there are some bus services, they may not be frequent or convenient for reaching the winery directly. Renting a car or booking a wine tour is generally recommended for ease of access. Reddit

Many visitors opt for a guided wine tour from Adelaide, which simplifies transportation and allows you to visit multiple wineries without worrying about driving. Alternatively, renting a car offers flexibility to explore at your own pace. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, booking your wine tasting in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend visits, to ensure availability and a personalized experience. Reddit

Chapel Hill Winery typically opens daily, but it's always best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date opening hours, especially for public holidays. Instagram

Tasting fees can vary depending on the experience and wines selected. It's advisable to check the winery's website for current pricing or inquire when making your booking. Some tasting fees may be waived with wine purchases. Reddit

While walk-ins may be accommodated if space is available, booking ahead is strongly advised to avoid disappointment, particularly during peak times. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The tasting experience is held within a historic ironstone church dating back to 1865, offering a unique ambiance. You'll be guided by knowledgeable staff through their range of wines, often with generous pours. InstagramReddit

Yes, Chapel Hill Winery often offers cheese platters and other accompaniments to complement your wine tasting. These are highly recommended to enhance the experience. Reddit

Absolutely! You can purchase your favorite wines directly from the cellar door. They also offer convenient shipping options for those who wish to send their purchases home. Reddit

Yes, Chapel Hill Winery is a stunning venue for weddings and other special events, with staff dedicated to making your occasion perfect. InstagramReddit

Chapel Hill Winery produces a range of wines, with a notable focus on reds like Shiraz, Grenache, and Cabernet. Their flagship wine is 'The Vicar' Shiraz. They also produce other varietals and sparkling wines. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The historic ironstone church itself is a prime photo spot, both inside and out. The picturesque vineyards and the surrounding McLaren Vale landscape also offer beautiful backdrops for memorable photos. Instagram

Yes, you are generally welcome to take photos inside the tasting room to capture the unique atmosphere of the historic church. Be mindful of other guests and staff. Reddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for vineyard shots. Midday can be bright, but the historic church architecture is impressive at any time. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Chapel Hill Winery is primarily a wine destination, families can still enjoy a visit. The unique setting of the historic church can be interesting for children, and the spacious grounds offer room to explore. Consider packing some snacks or light refreshments for younger ones, as the focus is on wine tasting. Reddit

Many visitors appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, and the staff are generally accommodating. It's a good idea to call ahead and inquire about any specific family-friendly amenities or if there are any events that might be more suitable for children. The opportunity to see a historic building can be an educational element for kids. Reddit

💍 Couples and Special Occasions

Chapel Hill Winery is an exceptionally romantic and memorable venue for couples. The historic church setting provides a unique and intimate atmosphere for wine tasting, making it perfect for anniversaries or special dates. Reddit

Beyond tastings, the winery is a sought-after location for weddings and events, with dedicated staff like Hope receiving high praise for their exceptional service in making these occasions perfect. The combination of beautiful scenery, exquisite wines, and a dedicated team ensures a truly unforgettable experience for couples celebrating milestones. InstagramReddit

🍷 Wine Enthusiasts

For serious wine lovers, Chapel Hill Winery offers a deep dive into the McLaren Vale wine scene. Their commitment to sustainable practices and the production of flagship wines like 'The Vicar' Shiraz are points of significant interest. Instagram+1

The knowledgeable cellar door team provides detailed insights into the winemaking process, grape varietals, and the history of the winery. The opportunity to taste a range of well-crafted wines, including unique offerings like the 2021 Small Batch Zinfandel, makes it a rewarding visit for those seeking quality and provenance in their wine. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Taste of History: The Ironstone Church

Chapel Hill Winery's cellar door is housed within a remarkable ironstone church, originally opened in 1865. This historic building provides a truly unique and atmospheric setting for wine tasting. The stained-glass windows and the rustic charm of the stone walls create an unforgettable ambiance that many visitors rave about. InstagramReddit

Stepping inside feels like stepping back in time. The preservation of the church's original features, combined with the modern winemaking expertise, offers a fascinating juxtaposition. It's not just a place to taste wine; it's an experience steeped in local history and heritage, making it a standout destination in the McLaren Vale wine region. Reddit

This historical significance is a major drawcard, differentiating Chapel Hill from many other wineries. The opportunity to enjoy world-class wines within such a unique architectural gem is something that resonates deeply with visitors, contributing to its reputation as a must-visit location. Instagram

The Art of Winemaking at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill Winery is celebrated for its commitment to producing high-quality wines, with a particular emphasis on sustainable farming practices. Winemakers here are passionate about their craft, focusing on expressing the unique terroir of the McLaren Vale region in every bottle. InstagramReddit

The winery is known for its flagship wines, such as 'The Vicar' Shiraz, which consistently receives praise for its depth and character. Other popular varietals include Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon, showcasing the diversity of grapes that thrive in the local climate. Visitors often highlight the knowledgeable staff who guide them through the tasting, sharing insights into the winemaking process and the stories behind each wine. Instagram

From grape to glass, Chapel Hill demonstrates a dedication to both tradition and innovation. Their efforts in sustainable viticulture not only benefit the environment but also contribute to the purity and quality of the wines. This holistic approach to winemaking is a key reason why many visitors leave impressed and eager to return. Instagram+1

Beyond the Wine: Events and Experiences

Chapel Hill Winery is more than just a cellar door; it's a versatile venue that hosts a variety of events and experiences. Its picturesque setting makes it an ideal location for special occasions, including weddings and culinary retreats. InstagramReddit+1

The winery has been recognized for its ability to create memorable events, such as the 'Flock50 Opening' which celebrated female empowerment and creativity. These events highlight the winery's role as a community hub, fostering connections and celebrating local talent alongside its wine offerings. Instagram

For those planning a visit, it's worth checking their schedule for any upcoming events or special tasting experiences. The combination of exceptional wine, a historic setting, and engaging activities makes Chapel Hill Winery a destination that offers something for everyone. InstagramReddit

You may also like