Perched on the rolling hillsides where the McLaren Vale wine region meets the shores of Gulf St. Vincent, Chapel Hill Winery is a picturesque estate crowned by a heritage church. Visit the cellar door to taste Chapel Hill Winery’s varietal and regional flavors and check out a gallery showcasing local contemporary artists. Linger a little longer at the winery’s restaurant and accommodations, which offer a sumptuous program of wine tastings, cooking classes and tours.
The elegant ironstone chapel served as the region’s church and parish school between 1865 and 1965 before falling into disuse. It was restored and a winery was established on its grounds in the 1970s, which developed into the award-winning institution it is today. Stroll around the grounds of the picturesque chapel, taking in views of the lattice of vines that curve with the slope of the hill. Inside the cellar door’s tasting room, sample the winery’s magnificent shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese rosé and chardonnay, among others. Don’t miss perusing the exhibitions of local artworks, which include pieces by indigenous Australian artists.
Visit Chapel Hill Winery’s restaurant and lodging, which is called the Retreat. Book special regional experiences, such as tours, outings, specialty cooking classes and wine tastings. Plan your special event in the multi-purpose venue. Stay overnight at the guesthouse and enjoy your Chapel Hill wines by the open fire. Be sure to pick up some wine as a souvenir or gift for friends.
Chapel Hill Winery is situated on the edge of the magnificent Onkaparinga River National Park. It is less than 10-minutes’ drive north from the township of McLaren Vale. Visit the winery as a part of a self-guided winery trail and explore the surrounding McLaren Vale winery region. Over 50 cellar doors can be found in the area, as well as fantastic restaurants and guesthouses. Tour the countryside and visit golf courses, river vistas and farmsteads. Chapel Hill Winery’s cellar door, gallery, restaurant and accommodations are open daily.
