This year, McLaren Vale icon, Chapel Hill Winery proudly celebrates an impressive milestone of 50 vintages, marking half a century of winemaking excellence. It has been a journey defined by dedication, innovation, and a passionate commitment from its team that has cemented Chapel Hill’s reputation in the wine industry.
To celebrate, Chapel Hill invites wine lovers and the wider community to their McLaren Vale estate this Sunday June 2nd, where it all began. The home event, led by Chief Winemaker Michael Fragos and Senior Viticulturist Rachel Steer, will be set against the scenic backdrop of the Onkaparinga Gorge and McLaren Vale’s golden vineyards.
The relaxed Sunday affair will take guests through an exclusive pre-release tasting of the 2021 Icon wines, including favourites such as The Vicar. Excitingly, this event will be SA’s premiere tasting of the new flagship wine, The Devil Shiraz. From the 2020 vintage, this $180 wine shows the truth of the old idiom. The devil is in the detail, with the wine expected to set a new benchmark for McLaren Vale shiraz.
The in-depth event includes a masterclass tasting, a House Block tour (from where the Devil Shiraz originates), and a three-course meal prepared by the Salopian Inn team. Given Winemaker Michael’s enthusiasm, guests can also expect a surprise tasting from the museum or barrel!
For a truly immersive experience, and to celebrate the occasion in style, guests can book a stay at The Retreat, Chapel Hill’s exclusive accommodation. Limited to only seven packages, it offers a luxury weekend getaway among the vineyards.
Since 1865, the Chapel of Chapel Hill has stood as a cherished, local landmark and has gone through significant transformations, from serving social and community functions, to becoming a landmark of winemaking heritage.
Under the leadership of award-winning winemaker, and industry legend, Pam Dunsford, Chapel Hill has risen to fame in both national and regional wine circles. Pam played a key role in developing winemaking techniques and teaching the next generation.
Today’s Chief Winemaker Michael Fragos, who has 21 years at Chapel Hill under his belt, continues Pam’s legacy. With his steady hand, the winery continues to grow with a strong focus on sustainability, innovative viticulture, and expressive wine styles that capture the essence of McLaren Vale.
Chapel Hill understands that not everyone will be able to travel to McLaren Vale in South Australia, so they are also hosting an event in Sydney on Thursday June 6th. Sydney’s event will see an intimate evening masterclass, led by Michael Fragos, that will present four brackets of wine, dedicated to the new releases and accompanied by samples from future vintages.
Chapel Hill’s 50th anniversary event promises not just a celebration of its past, but also a showcase of its bright future. The community is invited to join in the festivities, which honour both the heritage and innovation of Chapel Hill.
McLaren Vale
When: Sunday June 2nd, 11am-3:30pm
Where: The Retreat at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill Road & Chaffey’s Road, McLaren Vale SA 5171
Tickets: $150 – $300pp
Sydney
When: Thursday June 6th, 6:15pm
Where: Bar Messenger, 10 Phillip St, Sydney NSW 2000
Tickets: $65pp
For more information and to book, click here.
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