McLaren Vale is located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, 70 km. south of Adelaide and produces much of the states fine wine which is recognised internationally.

 

Soon after the first European landed at Glenelg in 1836, they discovered the fertile land to the south. By 1838 the Onkaparinga River had been forded and the land where McLaren Vale now stands had been surveyed, with the first settlers taking up holdings. Two small villages. Bellevue and Gloucester emerged at the southern and northern ends of the present township.

 

The land was cleared for cropping and combined with an expertise in animal husbandry, the region flourished. By 1850, grain growing was the predominant industry and sheep and cattle grazed the land.  The soil soon began to lose is nutrients and erosion became a problem. Many of the smaller farms became economically non-viable and, when the government opened up new areas in other regions, the population declined and the district began to lose its impetus. The farmers who remained formed self help groups, encouraged innovative methods, and held field days to spread their news of success amongst themselves. Grapes, which had first been planted in 1838, became more prominent, largely due to the efforts of Thomas Hardy. Others followed Hardy's lead and a promising new industry emerged. By the 1880's wealthy businessmen from Adelaide were investing in the industry and wealth was restored to the area.

 

The wine-maker's fortunes varied during the decades which followed.Much of their produce was sold to Britain, and changes in their policies, two World Wars, the Great Depression, and changes in consumer tasted affected the industry.
Today there are more than 50 wineries in the district. Two thirds of them are less than 25 years old. Notably they produce high quality reds, and some whites, for both domestic and international markets.

Tourism has also become a by-product of the wine industry. Most wineries are open 7 days for tastings and cellar door sales,and quality accommodation and restaurants provide for the many visitors to the region each year.
There are a number of excellent plant nurseries in, and around the township, offering a large range of traditional and more unusual plants. Local art and craft are featured in galleries, in some of the wineries, and in restaurants.

McLaren Vale is an ideal place to stay for a tour of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Those who have not yet experienced the pleasure of a visit to the Southern Vales have much to look forward to in this scenic and interesting part of South Australia.