d'Arenberg: The Blending Bench and Degustation with Wine Pairing
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit d'Arenberg winery in McLaren Vale for the Blending Bench, a hands-on experience where you get to play winemaker. Using three barrel samples of d'Arenberg's premium shiraz, you can create a wine of your very own and bottle a 750-mililiter sample to take home with you.
Available options
Degustation Including Wine
Degustation lunch is paired with carefully selected wines and includes Lobster, cheese & coffees
What's included
750-ml sample bottle of wine to take home
Blending Bench experience
8-course degustation with matching wines
Detailed itinerary
1
Arrive at d'Arenberg winery for your Blending Bench experience, where a palette of wine parcels, each with distinctive flavors and textures, awaits your blending in search of balance, fullness, and finesse.
The physical work is already done for you—picking, crushing, fermenting, foot treading, basket pressing, and barrel aging. You'll create a wine that is truly unique, and then bottle, name, and label a 750-ml sample to take home and show off to your friends.
Following your blending session, sit down to an 8-course degustation at d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant, overlooking the rolling hills of McLaren Vale. An homage, if you like, to the old adage "variety is the spice of life," this meal is an exceptional way to end your d'Arenberg experience. The resulting combination of flavors and textures created between the food and wine pairings will be the highlight of your time in South Australia.
What's not included
Transportation to/from winery
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
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3★
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2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor
4.8
10 reviews
5★
8
4★
2
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum age is 18 years
Meeting point
Departure Point: d'Arenberg winery
Address: Osborn Road, McLaren Vale, South Australia 5171
Dates: Monday - Friday
Important notes
• Minimum age is 18 years
• Please advise of any dietary requirements
About McLaren Vale
McLaren Vale is a renowned wine region located just 35 minutes south of Adelaide, South Australia. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich viticulture, and vibrant food scene, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and gourmet experiences. The region is home to over 80 wineries, each offering unique tasting experiences and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills.
Top Attractions
Wineries and Vineyards
McLaren Vale is home to over 80 wineries, each offering unique tasting experiences and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. The region is known for its high-quality wines, including Shiraz, Grenache, and Chardonnay.
Nature/Cultural
Half-day to full-day
Free to Moderate (some wineries charge tasting fees)
Willunga Market
The Willunga Market is a vibrant farmers' market held every second Sunday of the month. It features fresh produce, artisanal products, and local crafts. The market is a great place to sample local flavors and support local businesses.
Cultural/Shopping
2-3 hours
Free entry, variable for purchases
McLaren Vale Visitor Information Centre
The McLaren Vale Visitor Information Centre provides comprehensive information about the region, including maps, brochures, and advice on local attractions, wineries, and events. The center also offers guided tours and wine tasting experiences.
Cultural
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Grilled local lamb
McLaren Vale is known for its high-quality lamb, often grilled and served with local vegetables and herbs.
Main course
Contains meat
Fresh seafood platter
The region's coastal location means fresh seafood is abundant, with platters featuring oysters, prawns, and fish.
Main course
Contains seafood
Wine and cheese pairing
Many wineries offer wine and cheese pairing experiences, featuring local cheeses and award-winning wines.
Snack/Dessert
Contains dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking
Biking
Wine tasting tours
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Visiting wineries
Attending local markets
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Autumn) and September to November (Spring)
Autumn is harvest season, offering vineyard tours, grape picking, and wine festivals. Spring brings blooming landscapes and pleasant weather. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and wine tasting.
15-25°C (59-77°F)
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Time Zone
Australian Central Standard Time (ACST) (GMT+9:30)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
McLaren Vale is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas.
Getting there
By air
- Adelaide Airport • 50 km (31 miles)
By train
Seaford Station
By bus
Adelaide Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
LinkSA provides regular bus services connecting McLaren Vale to Adelaide and surrounding towns. The buses are reliable and offer a cost-effective way to explore the region.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
McLaren Vale Town Center
Willunga
Aldinga
Day trips
Adelaide
50 km (31 miles) • Half-day to full-day
Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia and offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and historic sites. The city is also known for its vibrant food and wine scene, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Victor Harbor
50 km (31 miles) • Half-day to full-day
Victor Harbor is a coastal town located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches, scenic coastal walks, and wildlife encounters. The town is also home to the historic Horse-Drawn Tram, which offers a unique way to explore the area.
Cape Jervis
60 km (37 miles) • Half-day to full-day
Cape Jervis is a small coastal town located at the southern tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula. It's known for its stunning coastal scenery, hiking trails, and as the departure point for ferry services to Kangaroo Island.
Festivals
McLaren Vale Wine Festival • March (annual)
Willunga Almond Blossom Festival • August (annual)
McLaren Vale Spring Festival • September (annual)
Pro tips
- Visit the McLaren Vale Visitor Information Centre first to plan your itinerary and get advice on local attractions and events.
- Book wine tours and tastings in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals.
- Consider staying in a vineyard or luxury property for a unique and indulgent experience.
- Try local wines and cuisine, and support local businesses and wineries.
- Explore the region's natural beauty by hiking, biking, or taking scenic drives.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
