Nestled in the picturesque McLaren Vale region of South Australia, Hugh Hamilton Wines stands as a testament to six generations of winemaking excellence. This family-owned winery, established in 1837, offers wine enthusiasts a unique blend of history, innovation, and exceptional wines.

The Black Sheep Legacy

Hugh Hamilton Wines proudly embraces its identity as the "Black Sheep" of the Australian wine industry. Led by Hugh Hamilton and his daughter Mary, the 5th and 6th generation winemakers respectively, the winery combines traditional techniques with a rebellious spirit to create distinctive and memorable wines.

Vineyard and Terroir

The winery boasts several vineyards across McLaren Vale, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Church Vineyard: Surrounding the old Bethany Chapel, this alluvial soil vineyard is home to Shiraz, Saperavi, and Sangiovese grapes.

• Black Sheep Vineyard: Located in the cooler Blewitt Springs sub-region, this diverse property features ancient sand hills and gullies with ironstone and clay soils, perfect for growing Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Hugh Hamilton Wines is committed to sustainable practices, participating in Australia's national sustainability program and employing low-tillage approaches to preserve soil health and the environment.

Signature Wines

The winery offers a wide range of wines, with a focus on bold reds and unique varietals:

• Pure Black**: An iconic blend of Shiraz and Saperavi

• The Oddball**: A rare Saperavi varietal wine

• 'The Rascal' Shiraz**: A classic McLaren Vale Shiraz

• 'Agent Provocateur'**: An innovative blend of Grenache, Frontignac, Touriga, and Gewurztraminer

Cellar Door Experience

Perched atop the vineyards with panoramic views of McLaren Vale, the Hugh Hamilton Cellar Door offers visitors a range of tasting experiences:

1. Mary's Seasonal Picks: A curated selection of wines that change with the seasons

2. A Taste of Premium: Featuring top-tier wines, including exclusive Black Sheep Club offerings

3. The Pure Black Experience: A luxurious journey through single vineyard Shiraz expressions and the iconic Pure Black blend

Each tasting is designed to be intimate and educational, led by knowledgeable staff who share the winery's rich history and winemaking philosophy.

Visitor Information

• Location: 94 McMurtrie Road, McLaren Vale, SA 5171

• Opening Hours: Daily, 11 AM - 5 PM

• Bookings: Recommended, especially for premium tasting experiences

• Accessibility: Suitable for small groups; larger groups should contact the winery directly

Hugh Hamilton Wines offers wine lovers a chance to experience the rebellious spirit of Australian winemaking, set against the backdrop of McLaren Vale's stunning landscapes. With its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation, this winery is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the best of South Australian wines.