South Australia is the historic heart of Australian wine and Australia’s leading wine producer and exporter. Grand heritage estates sit alongside multi-generational families and some of the world's oldest vines. South Australia’s 18 diverse and distinct wine regions are among the most historically significant in the country, boasting more than two centuries of winemaking excellence dating to the 1840s. The state produces 50% of Australia’s bottled wine and 80% of its premium wine. 70% of the state’s wine is exported to over 100 countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Singapore, Hong Kong, and New Zealand. Adelaide, South Australia, is a Great Wine Capital of the World, standing alongside 11 other renowned wine regions such as Bordeaux and Napa Valley.

There are more than 3,250 vineyard owners, 700 wineries and 500 cellar doors in South Australia, including iconic brands such as Penfolds, Hardys, and Henschke. South Australia honours its rich winemaking heritage while remaining at the forefront of global innovation.
South Australian winemakers are pioneers—curious, bold, and committed to pushing boundaries. With a deep respect for tradition, they embrace cutting-edge viticultural techniques and groundbreaking experimentation in the winery. Sustainability is embedded in every step of the process, with South Australia leading the way in organic, biodynamic, and natural winemaking.
Our commitment to the planet and people not only sets new standards for excellence but also advances the future of wine, ensuring we’re collectively creating a sustainable and healthy industry.

In South Australia, wine transcends mere consumption. It's a cornerstone of our culture and a celebrated part of our lifestyle.

More than just a product, wine is a shared experience that unites people; it enhances our world-class dining and is central to how we celebrate and enjoy life.

South Australia and wine

• In South Australia, food and wine is not simply an industry, it is a way of life and is deeply embedded in our culture.
• South Australia is a state of natural abundance. Rich with a unique menu of local foods, wines and beverages sourced from a safe and healthy environment.
• South Australia, the historic heart of Australian wine, is indisputably Australia’s wine state, producing over 50 percent of all bottled wine and about 80 percent of premium wine.
• South Australian wine is exported to around 100 countries globally and accounts for more than 60 per cent of all Australia’s wine exports.
• At any given time, a staggering one billion bottles of South Australian wine can be found on tables or in cellars around the world.
• Adelaide, South Australia, is a Great Wine Capital of the World, an exclusive group of 12 internationally renowned wine regions including as Bordeaux and Napa Valley.
• Home to 18 unique and contrasting wine regions and more than 700 wineries, South Australia offers incredible diversity. From famed and iconic classics to the more modern and contemporary, its wines and regions stand among the world’s elite.
• South Australia is known for producing exceptional Shiraz (Syrah), an iconic grape variety for the Barossa region, and Cabernet Sauvignon from Coonawarra’s famed terra rossa soil. McLaren Vale is recognised for its powerful reds, especially Grenache, and the boutique Clare Valley for world-renowned Riesling.
• Rich in heritage, South Australia has some of the oldest vines in the world and is home to prestigious brands like Penfolds, Hardys and Henschke.
• A proud 200-year history in wine is contrasted by a modern wine and grape growing industry, which embraces sustainable winemaking and viticultural practices.
• Home to progressive thinkers, the state is undoubtedly one of the most innovative and exciting places for wine. Its winemakers are curious with a fervent commitment to experimentation and innovation in winery and viticultural practices.
• The State’s wine consistently receive international awards and accolades, sitting amongst the highest echelon, recognising both established champions and emerging brands.
• Modern low-input winemaking techniques and a commitment to environmental sustainability have helped preserve the industry for future generations. A highlight is our water use through irrigation, which is 14 percent lower than the national average, despite South Australia being the driest Australian state.
• South Australia enjoys many natural advantages and harnesses these to be a world leader in renewable energy, with 70% net renewable electricity usage. These sources are widely adopted in production processes, lowering the carbon footprints of our wine.
• Adelaide is a wine innovation hub, home to the National Wine Centre, Wine Australia and Australia’s leading viticultural education, research and development institutions.