Discover the Barossa
When it comes to touring a wine region, nothing beats local knowledge. And when it comes to the Barossa, who better to impart wisdom than winemaker Chris Ringland, who has lived there for more than 30 years.
THE PERFECT PICNIC
Putting together a gourmet hamper is a cinch if you follow Chris Ringland’s suggestions for the best local goodies to pair with a bottle of his wine. In Angaston, there’s soft fromage – whether delightfully delicate or wonderfully pungent – from the contemporary Barossa Valley Cheese Company and a rich duck and pistachio terrine from traditional Schulz Butchers. In nearby Nuriootpa, pick up some smoky, garlicky mettwurst from the venerable Linke’s Central Meat Store, established in 1928. Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, also in Nuriootpa, is packed with homemade treats and a dizzying array of preserves. “Cured meats, local cheeses, dill pickles... these do go so well with robust reds, in particular shiraz,” says Ringland. And be sure to include a loaf of chewy sourdough from Tanunda Bakery. “I’ll stick my neck out and say it’s the best sourdough north of the Adelaide Central Market,” he says.
Picnic packed, head to Ringland’s favourite spot, Eden Valley Lookout. “The view is amazing,” he says. “It’s relatively easy to get to but not obvious – a beautiful place where you can see a patchwork of vineyards, paddocks, grazing country and bushland.” The scenic lookout is about a 20-minute drive from Angaston so stash your hamper in the boot of your car and spend the trip appreciating the Barossa.
CHRIS RINGLAND'S WINE TRAIL Chris Ringland
“I love creating ripe, lavish Barossa shiraz,” says Ringland. Tastings with the winemaker are held only by request and take place at his home in Flaxman Valley. Sit at his elegant table overlooking the vineyards and olive groves while sipping his assortment of “big and full-bodied but also soft and approachable” reds.
Why not do your tasting in style? A luxury car from Barossa Experience Tours will collect you from your hotel and chauffeur you to each destination on the region’s wine trail.
Rockford
Ringland worked at Rockford as a winemaker for 15 years and credits the label with starting a “renaissance of Barossa shiraz”. The cellar door, housed in restored stone stables, is open daily. Be sure to try their renowned reds.
Hutton Vale Farm
“Hutton Vale oozes rustic charm,” says Ringland. The 809-hectare working farm outside Angaston boasts rolling pastures and soaring gums, as well as a premium vineyard. Taste selected reds and rieslings by appointment.