‘Spectacular views’ in Dandelion Vineyards’ new McLaren Vale restaurant, cellar door planned for Firehawk Farm

McLaren Vale’s newest restaurant and cellar door will share “spectacular views” and Bulgarian-inspired dishes, with construction work starting in coming weeks.

Concept images for Dandelion Vineyards' new Cellar Door in McLaren Vale.

Dandelion Vineyards will share its stunning views over the coast and McLaren Vale, under plans for a new cellar door and restaurant.

The company will spend $931,000 on the project, including $380,000 in State Government money through the Regional Growth Fund.

The development is planned at Firehawk Farm, which winemaker Elena Brooks says has “spectacular views” overlooking Gulf St Vincent and is surrounded by hills. Food will be inspired by her Bulgarian background.

“There will be some things that my Mum and my grandmother cooked that will be on the menu, too,” Mrs Brooks said.

Work will start in the coming weeks, and she is aiming for an opening by next summer.

About six people will initially be employed at the cellar door and restaurant, with more expected as the business grows.

A concept image for Dandelion Vineyards' new cellar door in McLaren Vale.

The project involves repurposing a farm shed, using a large glass facade to take advantage of the views.

Dandelion Vineyards owns and leases properties in the Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley, Eden Valley, Finniss and McLaren Vale.

Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham said the investment would boost the local economy.

“This year we have invested millions in regional businesses through a number of avenues including the Regional Growth Fund and the South Australian Wine Industry Development Scheme,” he said.

“We have also launched a new campaign – ‘2021 Year of South Australian Wine’ – which aims to drive sales and increase visitor numbers to our wine regions and cellar doors across the state.”

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