Patrick of Coonawarra is a premium family-run estate nestled in the heart of South Australia's renowned Coonawarra wine region. Established in 2004 by celebrated winemaker Patrick Tocaciu, this winery has become a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts seeking exceptional cool-climate wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon.

Location and Cellar Door

The winery is conveniently located at 15598 Riddoch Highway, Coonawarra, SA 5263. The cellar door welcomes visitors daily from 10 am to 5 pm, closing only on Christmas Day and Good Friday.

History and Legacy

Patrick Tocaciu, with over three decades of winemaking experience and numerous international accolades, founded Patrick of Coonawarra to fulfill his personal dream. Following Patrick's unexpected passing, his son Luke took over as director, general manager, and chief winemaker, seamlessly blending his father's wisdom with contemporary winemaking trends.

Vineyard and Winemaking

Patrick of Coonawarra owns over 85 hectares of vineyards, including:

• The "Home Block" surrounding the Tocaciu family home

• Additional vineyards in Coonawarra

• A vineyard in Wrattonbully featuring both red and white varietals

The winery is committed to sustainable viticulture, employing minimal spraying, organic composting, and careful canopy management to produce full-flavored, character-rich wines.

Wine Portfolio

While specializing in premium Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon, Patrick of Coonawarra offers a diverse range of wines:

• Cabernet Sauvignon

• Riesling

• Shiraz

• Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot

• Sauvignon Blanc

• Rosé

A standout offering is the Grande Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, which spends three years in barrel and an additional four years cellaring before release.

Visitor Experience

The cellar door provides a welcoming atmosphere for wine tasting, set amidst beautiful gardens and lush lawns perfect for picnics. Visitors can enjoy:

• Wine tastings

• Self-guided wine and chocolate pairing experiences

• Generous food platters paired with complimentary wine

• An eco-garden designed to attract beneficial insects for the vineyard

Accolades and Recognition

Patrick of Coonawarra has garnered numerous accolades, including:

• 5-Star rating from James Halliday

• Gold medals and trophies for their Rieslings

• Recognition for their full-bodied red wines

Philosophy

The winery's ethos centers on producing wines with **regionality and personality**. They focus on minimal winemaker intervention, allowing the high-quality fruit to shine through traditional winemaking techniques such as extended skin contact, gentle maceration, and slow fermentation.

For wine lovers seeking an authentic Coonawarra experience, Patrick of Coonawarra offers a perfect blend of rich history, exceptional wines, and warm hospitality, making it an essential stop on any wine tour of South Australia.