Coonawarra, Wine producing locality in Limestone Coast zone, South Australia
Coonawarra is a wine region in the Limestone Coast zone of South Australia that extends across roughly 60 kilometers. The landscape features distinctive red soil over limestone bedrock that shapes the character of wines produced here.
The first vineyard here was planted in 1890, launching a winemaking tradition that shaped Australian viticulture. This early start made the region one of the oldest and most influential wine areas in the country.
The name Coonawarra comes from the Bindjali language and refers to honeysuckle plants that once grew across the land. Today the winemakers connect this heritage to their daily work tending the vines.
About 28 wineries are lined up along a single road, making it straightforward to visit several in one outing. The compact layout allows you to explore the area in a single day and sample from different cellar doors.
The soil here is called terra rossa, a blend of red earth and limestone that creates unusual growing conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon. This soil combination is uncommon in Australia and contributes to wines that are difficult to replicate elsewhere.
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