SAWeekend cover story: The unique SA wine tasting experiences where you need an appointment to avoid disappointment

Love going wine tasting but want a unique experience away from the crowds? EXPLORE the map to learn more about the SA wineries where the only way you can sample their wares is by booking ahead.

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The way we taste wine has changed, perhaps forever, due to COVID-19 restrictions. The number of people in cellar doors is now restricted by social distancing regulations and booking ahead to avoid disappointment is recommended.

Many wine brands have also applied strict time limits to tasting experiences to keep up with demand and manage the flow of visitors. Fortunately, South Australians are still able to travel within the state.

Due to their size, some wine brands have been conducting “by appointment only” tasting experiences since day dot (well before the global pandemic hit). Most don’t actually have a cellar door, instead they host tastings in their homes, vineyards, wineries, sheds and backyards. No matter where you taste, it is important to book ahead. Don’t be shy … they want to welcome you. Not only will you leave with wine on your lips and adventure in your heart, you’ll most likely depart with new winemaker friends, too.

With that in mind, SAWeekend offers this list of some of the winemakers whose wares you can only taste by ringing ahead to let them know you are on your way.

Tap the icons on the map below to learn more about each winery, each wine region and how you can book your own unique wine-tasting experience.

Use the form below to tell us about other by-appointment-only wine tastings in SA.