Intimate Wine & Regenerative Farming Escape in South Australia

Sellicks Clifftop lookout views above Sellicks Beach

Truly my favorite day of the entire trip was exploring this incredible region. Our morning began along the scenic coastline at Sellicks Clifftop Lookout, where the dramatic ocean views set the tone for a day immersed in nature and local culture. Standing there, it was easy to feel the deep connection this land holds, a place that has been cared for by the Kaurna and Ngarrindjeri peoples for thousands of years. I had the privilege of spending the day with Ben Neville of Off Piste 4WD Tours, a third-generation winemaker and proud Fleurieu local whose passion for the area is absolutely contagious. From the moment we met, his energy and storytelling made me fall in love with McLaren Vale even more—he has a way of making you feel like a local yourself. Ben’s Fork and Grape Tour perfectly captures the essence of the region, weaving together visits to small producers, authentic conversations, and unforgettable meals that highlight the true spirit of South Australia.

Lunch at Ben’s homestead, surrounded by sweeping vineyard views.

The highlight of the day was a private lunch at Ben’s family’s historic homestead and vineyard, where we dined among 30-year-old vines and tasted the latest vintage of single-block Shiraz. Lunch was prepared by award-winning chef and Ben’s fiancée, Imogen (Mo) Czulowski, whose thoughtful menu celebrated regional ingredients with creativity and care. It was one of those “pinch-me” travel moments: intimate, soulful, and distinctly South Australian. Later, we visited a music sound bar and a sustainable wine and almond farm, an unexpected gem that combined two of the region’s greatest loves: agriculture and art. The property focuses on regenerative farming and hosts intimate live music events, creating a space where locals and travelers can connect over good wine, community, and creativity. It was the kind of experience that reminded me why McLaren Vale is so special—a region where sustainability isn’t a buzzword but a way of life, celebrated through every glass, every plate, and every song.

Inside the blending room at d’Arenberg Winery

In the afternoon, Ben led me to the iconic d’Arenberg Winery, a fourth-generation, family-owned estate that perfectly captures the playful and creative spirit of McLaren Vale. As soon as I stepped inside the d’Arenberg Cube, I completely forgot I was at a winery—it felt like stepping into another world. This striking five-story glass structure, inspired by a Rubik’s Cube, awakened all five of my senses as I moved through rooms filled with immersive art, vibrant color, and unexpected aromas. Each floor offered something new to explore, from interactive installations to sensory tasting spaces, until I reached the top level for the Blend Your Own Wine session. I sampled three distinct Shiraz varieties and experimented with balance and flavor before crafting my own unique blend. The hands-on experience was fascinating and so much fun, and walking away with my personally labeled bottle felt like the perfect keepsake from a day that completely redefined what a wine experience could be.

Blending experience set up at d’Arenberg Winery.

I left McLaren Vale with a full stomach, a full heart, and a newfound appreciation for Shiraz and sustainable farming. Every glass poured and every meal shared told a story of community, creativity, and care for the land—the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve left the vineyard behind.

The vibrant, art-filled halls of the d’Arenberg Cube; a feast for the senses.

I visited McLaren Vale in the spring (early October), when the region was bursting with wildflowers and cool coastal breezes. The weather was mild and beautiful, perfect for wine tasting and exploring the countryside, though a light jacket definitely came in handy near the coast. I didn’t get the chance to drive along the sandy stretch of Sellicks Beach, one of the few beaches in South Australia where you can take your car onto the sand, but it’s at the top of my list for next time.

For travelers planning a visit, spring and fall are ideal for fewer crowds and vibrant scenery, while summer brings warm, golden evenings and beach days! If you’re looking for something extra special, Ben from Off Piste Tours can even arrange an intimate, romantic dinner right on the sand. For those returning from Kangaroo Island, Ben also offers early-morning ferry pick-ups and day trips through McLaren Vale, a perfect way to cap off your South Australian adventure before catching an evening flight back to Sydney.

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