Maxwell Wines in McLaren Vale – recognised as South Australia’s Best Restaurant by Gourmet Traveller in 2024 – has recently appointed Matt Rodgers as its new head chef as the estate takes an exciting new direction.
Rodgers has worked across a swathe of top-tier restaurants including a stint at two-michelin star Restaurant Sat Bains in the UK, d’Arenberg Cube Restaurant, ARC in Brisbane and, most recently, Sequoia Lodge at Mt Lofty House.
Maxwell’s Executive Chef Fabian Lehman – who has led the team since 2016 – will work alongside Rodgers in this new chapter for the winery.
“I’m thrilled to have Matt join the team. His creative energy and fresh perspective will allow us to build upon the strong foundation we’ve established,” Lehmann said.
Rodgers’ arrival also marks a pivotal change in food offerings, coinciding with the launch of an exciting new cellar door menu. The menu offers a curated selection of bite-sized snacks focusing on bold flavours and is designed to enhance the winery’s tasting experience.
“For us, this new offering is about creating an experience that showcases the harmony between our wines and good food,” explains General Manager Jeremy Maxwell.
“Guests can enjoy these pairings as part of a wine tasting experience in our cellar door or order them with wines by the glass on the Maxwell Terrace.”
Available seven days a week, the menu captures the heart of Maxwell in a fast, fuss-free way for those on the go.
“It’s a wonderful way for people to see a glimpse of the Maxwell Restaurant experience even if their timing doesn’t align with our restaurant hours.”
Expect an elevated take on classics like crisp chicken tart, smoked chicken and crispy leak, Abrolhos Island scallop with tomato and yuzu kosho, wagyu bresaola and many more.
It’s not just the cellar door that’s been revamped. The award-winning Maxwell Restaurant’s tasting menu – served Friday to Sunday – also welcomes new additions.
A standout includes the Danish inspired gluten-free doughnut with capsicum and bresaola, as well as a new take on the guest-favourite oyster pearl.
“This evolution reflects our commitment to pairing exceptional food with our wines, offering guests a truly sensory journey,” says Jeremy.
Taste your way through Maxwell Wines’ new cellar door menu or indulge in a full tasting experience accompanied by their exceptional wine list. Either way, it’s the perfect afternoon escape in McLaren Vale.
WHAT: Maxwell Wines welcomes new head chef and cellar door menu
WHERE: 19 Olivers Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171
WHEN: 10am – 5pm, everyday
Restaurant: lunch Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 12pm, dinner Saturday from 6:30 pm.
For more info, click here.
More News
