South Australian winery, Dandelion Vineyards, has been awarded for its architecture at the prestigious 2025 Global Best Of Wine Tourism Awards in Verona, Italy. The winery, located in McLaren Vale, received the global accolade for its exemplary architecture and landscape.
For Dandelion Vineyards to secure a spot in the Global Best Of Wine Tourism Awards, it took winning first prize for Architecture and Landscape at South Australia’s Best of Wine Tourism earlier in the year.
The global awards ceremony, held at the Great Wine Capitals Gala Dinner on October 24th, celebrates outstanding contributions to wine tourism. Among the illustrious regions participating, Dandelion Vineyards stood out for its innovative approach to integrating architecture and the natural environment.
The award-winning “Wonder Room” at Dandelion Vineyards is a remodelled tractor shed transformed into an engaging wine tourism spot. It successfully combines rustic aesthetics with modern amenities to offer visitors a wonderfully unique experience. The space features massive glass windows that provide expansive views of the scenic vineyards in McLaren Vale, enhancing the wine tasting experience with stunning visuals of the region.
Owners Elena and Zar Brooks have shared their joy over this international achievement. Elena said, “Zar and I are absolutely delighted to receive this prestigious award. The Wonder Room was a true team effort, and we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished together.
“Our vision was to create a space that blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of McLaren Vale and the architecture, with its respectful and modern design, plays a big part in that.
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our team and our shared commitment to showcasing the best of our region through both our wines and the environment we’ve created.”
Zoe Bettison, Minister for Tourism, heralded the recognition as a reflection of South Australia’s leadership in wine tourism. Zoe said, “Congratulations to the dedicated team at Dandelion Vineyards on this incredible accolade, which showcases to the world why we are a leader in wine tourism.”
“In just seven years, this winery has become a gem for the McLaren Vale, and South Australia, with this Global Best of Wine Tourism Award cementing its position as a must-visit winery.”
“We know our wine offerings are an important motivator for our international market to commit to a trip to South Australia, which is why these awards are so important in promoting our state as a must-visit destination, not just for a top drop, but for unforgettable experiences.”
Clare Scriven, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, highlighted the importance of such achievements for promoting South Australia on a global stage. She said, “South Australia is indisputably Australia’s wine state, producing half of all bottled wine and about 80 per cent of premium wine. In 2022-23 our state’s wine industry generated $1.9 billion in revenue for South Australia.”
The Adelaide, South Australia chapter of the Great Wine Capitals Global Network, a consortium including the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), the South Australian Tourism Commission, the South Australian Wine Industry Association, and the University of Adelaide, supports local involvement in these global awards.
Leon Bignell Member for Mawson, commented on the occasion, saying “Today is a massive day for our region when we declare the best winemaker of the year at the annual McLaren Vale Bushing Lunch.
“As well as saluting our new Bushing King or Queen I’m sure we will all be raising a glass to Zar, Elena and the entire Dandelion team for bringing more international recognition to our world class wine region.”
This accolade not only heightens Dandelion Vineyards’ profile but also cements South Australia’s reputation as a premier destination for wine tourism. The state, a part of an exclusive network alongside other renowned wine capitals, continues to foster its stature as a leading wine tourism destination globally.
For more details on the Great Wine Capitals and the Best Of Wine Tourism Awards, click here.
Dandelion Vineyards Wonder Room
Where: Dandelion Vineyards Wonder Room, 191 Chaffeys Road, McLaren Vale SA 5171
When: Open 10am – 6pm, 7 days
For more information, click here.
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