Springs Road Wines is a charming boutique winery located on Kangaroo Island, South Australia, offering wine enthusiasts a unique and picturesque tasting experience. Here's what you need to know about this hidden gem:

Location and History

Springs Road Wines is situated in Cygnet River, approximately 7km west of Kingscote, the main town on Kangaroo Island. The vineyard was established in 1994 on a small sheep property and was acquired in 2016 by Joch Bosworth and Louise Hemsley-Smith, owners of the renowned Battle of Bosworth Wines in McLaren Vale.

The Vineyard

The Springs Road vineyard benefits from a unique combination of factors that contribute to its exceptional wines:

• Low rainfall

• Low soil fertility

• Moderate maritime climate

These conditions result in low-yielding vines that produce highly colored and intensely flavored wines. The vineyard spans approximately 25 acres, with plantings of:

• 11 acres of Shiraz

• 11 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon

• 3 acres of Chardonnay

The vines, now over 20 years old, are managed organically, reflecting the owners' commitment to sustainable viticulture.

Wines and Tasting Experience

Springs Road Wines offers a range of estate-grown, hand-made wines that showcase the unique terroir of Kangaroo Island. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings of their wines, including:

• Chardonnay

• Shiraz

• Cabernet Sauvignon

• Shiraz/Cabernet blend

The winery also produces a super-premium barrel reserve 'Terre Napoleon' Shiraz for those seeking a truly special tasting experience.

Cellar Door

The cellar door at Springs Road Wines offers a memorable experience for visitors:

• Location: Perched atop a hill, accessed via a long driveway off Playford Highway

• Views: Stunning panoramic views of Nepean Bay

• Ambiance: Large deck perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine

Opening Hours

• October to April: Daily, 12 PM - 5 PM

• May to September: Wednesday to Monday, 12 PM - 4 PM (closed Tuesdays)

Tasting Options

Springs Road Wines offers several tasting experiences to suit different preferences:

1. A Taste of Springs Road: A guided tasting of all Springs Road and Little Island wines, including a welcome taste of Spring Seed Wine Co 'Gypsy' Organic Blanc de Blancs from their McLaren Vale vineyards.

2. Premium Taste: Similar to the standard tasting but includes a sample of the exclusive 'Terre Napoleon' Shiraz.

3. Premium Taste with Cheese: A comprehensive tasting experience paired with local cheeses and crackers, plus take-home Spiegelau tasting glasses.

Unique Features

• Organic Practices: The vineyard is undergoing conversion to certified organic viticulture.

• Estate-Grown: All wines are 100% estate-grown and hand-made.

• Rich History: The property has an interesting backstory, including connections to local racing culture and early settlers.

• Diverse Wildlife: Visitors may encounter sheep, chickens, and guinea fowl on the property.

For Wine Lovers

Springs Road Wines offers a genuine taste of Kangaroo Island terroir in a stunning setting. The combination of low-yielding vines, organic practices, and expert winemaking results in wines of exceptional quality and character. The cellar door's panoramic views and relaxed atmosphere make it an essential stop for wine enthusiasts visiting Kangaroo Island.

Whether you're a fan of bold Shiraz, elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, or crisp Chardonnay, Springs Road Wines provides a tasting experience that truly captures the essence of this unique wine region.