Crabtree Watervale Wines
Crabtree Watervale Wines is a boutique estate winery nestled in the heart of the historic Watervale district in South Australia's Clare Valley. Established in 1984 by Robert Crabtree, this winery has built a formidable reputation for producing premium handcrafted wines that showcase the best of the region.
Location and Setting
The winery is situated on North Terrace in Watervale, offering visitors a picturesque setting with stunning views of the Clare Valley. The estate spans 12.1 hectares of vineyards, some of which contain vines dating back to 1946. This combination of history and natural beauty provides an ideal backdrop for wine enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.
Cellar Door Experience
The charming cellar door at Crabtree Watervale Wines offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors. Housed in part of the original 1850s homestead, the tasting room exudes a homely and rustic atmosphere. The courtyard looks out over the estate vineyards, allowing guests to soak in the beauty of the surroundings while savoring the wines.
Open seven days a week from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, the cellar door welcomes wine lovers to taste their range of premium estate-grown wines. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide visitors through the tasting experience and share their passion for Watervale wines.
Wine Portfolio
Crabtree Watervale Wines has earned a reputation for producing a diverse range of high-quality wines, including:
Award-winning classic Watervale Riesling
Traditionally styled Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon
Popular Tempranillo
Innovative Rosé
Renowned Fortified Shiraz
Grand Muscat Liqueur
These wines are handcrafted to showcase the unique terroir of the Watervale sub-region, offering wine enthusiasts a true taste of the Clare Valley.
Visitor Information
Accessibility
The winery is family-friendly and dog-friendly, making it an ideal destination for various groups of visitors.
Group Bookings
Due to the intimate nature of the cellar, large groups (maximum six people) are requested to make appointments in advance.
Facilities
Visitors can enjoy alfresco/outdoor dining, ample parking, and wine tasting sessions. The winery also offers online ordering for those who wish to purchase wines after their visit.
Recognition
Crabtree Watervale Wines has been awarded a "Five Star winery" rating by renowned wine critic James Halliday, cementing its status as a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Winemaking Philosophy
Under the guidance of winemaker Kerri Thompson, Crabtree Watervale Wines continues to uphold its tradition of producing estate-grown premium wines. The winery's approach emphasizes hand-picked and hand-pruned grapes, ensuring that each bottle reflects the care and attention given to the entire winemaking process.
For wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic and high-quality wine experience in the Clare Valley, Crabtree Watervale Wines offers a perfect blend of history, craftsmanship, and natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice, this boutique winery promises a memorable visit and the opportunity to discover the finest wines of the Watervale region.