Chain of Ponds
Nestled in the picturesque Adelaide Hills region of South Australia, Chain of Ponds is a boutique winery that offers wine enthusiasts a unique and memorable experience. Established in 1985, this winery has become synonymous with refined, elegant wines that showcase the best of the cool-climate terroir.
Location and History
The winery takes its name from the original Chain of Ponds township, which served as a resting place for weary travelers in the mid-1800s. While the township is now submerged beneath one of Adelaide's reservoirs, its spirit lives on through the wines produced by Chain of Ponds.
Terroir and Winemaking
Chain of Ponds benefits from a distinctive combination of factors that contribute to its exceptional wines:
Elevation: The high altitude of the Adelaide Hills provides cooler temperatures.
Fertile Soils: Rich soils impart unique characteristics to the grapes.
Cool Climate: Ideal conditions for producing refined and elegant wines.
Under the guidance of Chief Winemaker Greg Clack, Chain of Ponds has continued to evolve and innovate, producing wines that consistently receive accolades and recognition.
Wine Portfolio
Chain of Ponds offers an impressive range of varietals, catering to diverse palates:
White Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Grüner Veltliner
Red Wines: Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Barbera
Other Styles: Rosé, Sparkling
The winery is particularly known for its Single Vineyard series, which showcases the unique characteristics of specific vineyard sites within the Adelaide Hills.
Visitor Experience
While Chain of Ponds closed its cellar door in 2016, wine lovers can still experience their exceptional wines through various channels:
Online Purchase: Wines are available through their website and other online retailers.
Distribution: Chain of Ponds wines can be found in select wine shops and restaurants.
Wine Club: Join their wine club for exclusive access to limited releases and special offers.
Sustainability and Innovation
Chain of Ponds is committed to sustainable viticulture practices, ensuring the long-term health of their vineyards and the surrounding ecosystem. The winery also embraces innovation, as evidenced by their "Unchained" series, which explores new winemaking techniques and lesser-known varietals.
Awards and Recognition
Chain of Ponds has garnered numerous accolades over the years, including trophies at the Adelaide Hills Wine Show. Their commitment to quality is reflected in consistently high ratings from respected wine critics and publications.
For wine lovers seeking to explore the best of Adelaide Hills, Chain of Ponds offers a compelling portfolio of wines that truly capture the essence of this renowned cool-climate region. While a visit to the physical winery may not be possible, the stories and character of Chain of Ponds can be experienced through every bottle, making it a must-try for any serious wine enthusiast.