Southern Fleurieu

The vineyards and wineries of the Southern Fleurieu Peninsula are, as is the case with Kangaroo Island, but one of numerous tourist attractions in the region. The undulating slopes and gentle hills pose no limitations to viticulture and simply serve to enhance the beauty of the vineyards within the setting of such a diverse landscape.

This region is quite distinct from any other, and the quality of the wines made to date will almost certainly lead to further plantings and developments.

The climate is Mediterranean and very strongly influenced by the vast expanses of water surrounding the region. Thus temperatures are one to two degrees warmer than Adelaide in winter, but three to five degrees cooler in summer, with an average summer maximum of only 25° C (77°F).

The Mediterranean pattern means the rainfall is winter dominant and the minimal growing season rainfall makes irrigation essential. Spring frosts are simply not an issue, and the prevailing southerly winds seldom blow with sufficient force to inhibit growth. Overall, the climate is cooler than one envisages and reflects itself in the wine styles.

There are two soil types in the vineyard areas: First, a variable sandy to more clayey loam over limestone subsoil, and second, buckshot gravel--again, over limestone. Both are suited to viticulture and support moderately vigorous vine growth.