McLaren Vale Terrior

McLaren Vale's favourable climate and geographical factors are internationally recognised as elements that make it one of the more consistent wine grape growing regions of the world.

McLaren Vale has a typical Mediterranean climate with the moderating influence of the sea tempering the summer heat and the cold of winter. The climate is characterized by warm summers, moderate winters, winter-dominant rainfall (580-700 mm per annum), low relative humidity and relatively high evaporation. Rain during the harvest period and frost are rare. For the viticulturist this means less likelihood of crop damage from year to year.

McLaren Vale has numerous micro-climates within the region, determined by variation in altitude and soil type associated with the various geological formations. This variation provides scope for the winemakers of the region to produce wines of varied and distinctive character.

Rainfall is sufficient in some areas to allow dry growing resulting in increased fruit flavour intensity. Where irrigation is used, drip irrigation is favoured. There are sufficient sources of good quality underground water and irrigation dams to maintain vine growth, albeit at an added premium in recent years due to the onset of Australia's drought conditions. A cap on the use of ground water has been applied which will limit yields (thus helping overall quality) as well as restricting further expansion of the acreage under vines.