Farmer's Leap
Nestled in the picturesque Padthaway region of South Australia, Farmer's Leap Wines offers wine enthusiasts a unique and authentic vineyard experience. This family-owned winery, established in 2004, has quickly become a must-visit destination for those seeking quality wines and genuine country hospitality.
Location and History
Situated at 41 Hodgson Road, Padthaway, Farmer's Leap is the brainchild of Scott Longbottom and Cheryl Merrett, third-generation farmers who took a leap of faith into viticulture in 1993. The Longbottom family has been farming in the area since 1938, bringing generations of agricultural expertise to their winemaking venture.
Vineyard and Wines
Terroir
Padthaway is renowned for its rich terra rossa soil over limestone, providing an ideal environment for grape cultivation. This unique terroir contributes to the distinctive character of Farmer's Leap wines.
Varietals
The vineyard boasts a diverse range of grape varieties, including:
Shiraz
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Winemaking Philosophy
At Farmer's Leap, the focus is on producing honest, approachable wines that reflect the region's terroir. The winery prides itself on not taking shortcuts and maintaining the highest standards in winemaking, ensuring each bottle is one you can trust.
Cellar Door Experience
The cellar door at Farmer's Leap is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, offering visitors a warm and friendly environment to explore their wine range.
Tastings
Wine lovers can enjoy personalized tastings, with knowledgeable staff providing insights into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of each varietal.
Food Offerings
The cellar door also serves meals and light fares, perfect for pairing with their wines while taking in the beautiful vineyard views.
Atmosphere
Visitors can expect a relaxed, country-style ambiance with stunning views of the manicured lawns and surrounding vineyards. The outdoor deck is particularly popular on warm, sunny days.
Awards and Recognition
While specific awards are not mentioned in the search results, Farmer's Leap has gained recognition for its quality wines, particularly its Shiraz collection. The winery has also expanded its reach, exporting to countries such as Canada, Singapore, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.
Visitor Tips
Plan to spend 1-2 hours at the cellar door to fully appreciate the wines and surroundings.
Try the Shiraz, which is highly recommended by many visitors.
Consider purchasing a souvenir wine glass to remember your visit.
The winery is an excellent stop for those traveling between Naracoorte and Adelaide.
Farmer's Leap Wines offers wine enthusiasts a genuine taste of Padthaway's viticultural offerings, combined with warm country hospitality. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual taster, this hidden gem in South Australia's wine country promises a memorable and delightful experience.