Calabria Family Wines, nestled in the picturesque Barossa Valley of South Australia, offers wine enthusiasts a captivating blend of rich history, exceptional wines, and breathtaking views. This family-owned winery, with its roots dating back to 1945, has become a must-visit destination for wine lovers exploring the region.

Location and Setting

Situated in the Vine Vale sub-region of Tanunda, Calabria Family Wines boasts a stunning location at the base of the famous Mengler's Hill Lookout Sculpture Park. The winery's tasting room is housed in a heritage bluestone villa built in 1899, seamlessly blending historical charm with modern amenities. Visitors are treated to sweeping views of the Elisabeth Estate vineyards, creating a picturesque backdrop for wine tasting experiences.

Vineyard and Wine Production

Calabria Family Wines owns 45 hectares of estate vineyards spread across three locations in the Barossa Valley. The crown jewel of their holdings is the century-old 'William' vineyard, which produces grapes for some of their most prestigious wines. In addition to their own vineyards, the family collaborates with six local growers to source high-quality fruit.

The winery produces approximately 15,000 cases of wine annually, focusing on varietals that thrive in the Barossa climate. While Shiraz is their flagship varietal, with four distinct styles produced, they also craft excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, Durif, Montepulciano, Nero d'Avola, Mourvèdre, and Malbec.

Award-Winning Wines

Wine enthusiasts visiting Calabria Family Wines can look forward to tasting some of their critically acclaimed wines:

• Saint Petri Grenache Shiraz Mataro: This blend won Best in Show at the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards in 2018.

• The Iconic Grand Reserve Shiraz: Earning 97 points in the Halliday Wine Companion 2017, this wine showcases the best of Barossa Shiraz.

• Iconic Grand Reserve Shiraz 1914 Centenarian Vines: Crafted from hand-harvested grapes from century-old vines, this wine offers a taste of Barossa's viticultural heritage.

Tasting Experiences

Calabria Family Wines offers a range of tasting experiences designed to cater to various preferences:

• Seated Tastings: Intimate, personalized experiences allowing guests to explore the Barossa portfolio at their own pace.

• Tasting Flights: Curated selections showcasing the diversity of Calabria wines.

• Wine & Chocolate Experience: A delightful pairing of fine wines with artisanal chocolates.

• Calabria Signature Barossa Valley Flavours Tasting Flight: This premium experience features the winery's top wines, including the Iconic Grand Reserve Shiraz and the award-winning Grenache Shiraz Mataro, accompanied by a local Barossa Valley produce platter.

Facilities and Amenities

The winery is well-equipped to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit:

• Alfresco/Outdoor Dining: Perfect for enjoying wines with a view.

• Cellar Door: For purchasing wines to take home.

• Family-Friendly: Welcoming to visitors of all ages.

• Pet-Friendly: Inquire about bringing your furry friends along.

• Private Dining Area: Available for special events or intimate gatherings.

• Harvest Kitchen Restaurant: On-site dining featuring local cuisine that complements the wines.

Winemaking Expertise

Under the guidance of Chief Winemaker Emma Norbiato, a finalist for the 2019 Gourmet Traveller WINE Winemaker of the Year, Calabria Family Wines continues to produce exceptional wines that showcase the best of the Barossa Valley terroir.

For wine lovers seeking an authentic Barossa Valley experience, Calabria Family Wines offers a perfect blend of history, quality, and hospitality. With its stunning location, award-winning wines, and range of tasting experiences, it's an essential stop on any wine tour of South Australia.