Have you ever heard the tales of the pioneer families who ventured through the untamed Barossa in 1845 and made homes inside hollowed trees on the riverbank? Now you have!
Fast-forward to 1902 and their ancestors planted what is now the oldest, certified organic vineyard in the Barossa Valley. Fast-forward again to today and Hart of the Barossa is a gorgeous, secret venue that encompasses all of the themes behind what a family owned and operated winery should be.
Nestled in the tiny sub-region of Vine Vale, down a fragrant lavender path, the Hart of the Barossa Tasting Shed itself embraces its humble beginnings and rugged, natural landscape surrounds, offering a rustic and homely escape from the busyness of life.
During the summertime, this hidden gem is covered in lush, verdant vines and offers views for days. During winter, the softly chandelier-lit shed and open fire will keep you cosy, while you pick your spot at the long table for a personalised tasting flight or even one of their monthly long lunches.
The space is tastefully decorated to match its rustic charm, featuring wooden barrels, large, old wagon wheels, and a long, welcoming tasting bench complete with pews.
Locals know the Barossa Valley has no shortage of great wineries, but if you’re looking for an intimate and authentic farm-gate experience with a whole lot of heart (pun very much intended), Hart of the Barossa should be a stop on your next trip into the Barossa — especially, if you’re looking to show off the rugged beauty and phenomenal wines of South Australia to friends visiting from interstate or overseas.
Embracing sustainable farming practices, Hart of the Barossa have maintained the by-hand way of their ancestors, handcrafting from grape to glass untainted by chemicals, with a style that rings true to their patch of terroir and mother nature’s best.
If you’d like a taste, the Hart of the Barossa Tasting Shed, located in the midst of the vineyard, opens its doors to wine lovers every Friday and Saturday from 11am to 4pm.
Once a month, Hart of the Barossa also hold a five-course long lunch hosted by vintners Michael and Alisa Hart. It’s described as five courses of pure Barossan indulgence, and with only 14 seats per luncheon, it’s a very intimate dining experience.
You can book individual seats or the whole table, so whether you’re organising a corporate event, a get together with wine-loving friends, or introducing interstate folk to a quintessentially South Australian experience (one that will have them raving for years), then put Hart of the Barossa on your must-visit list. Find out more here.
No matter what you’re after, you’ll want to visit one of the region’s best kept secrets and experience the heart of the Barossa.
You’ll find Hart of the Barossa at 931 Light Pass Rd, Vine Vale SA 5352.