Coonawarra: Wine tasting with cellar host at Rymill

Summary

Sip classic Coonawarra wines where the vines meet the sky

You’ll taste classic Coonawarra wines at Rymill’s relaxed cellar door with a friendly local host guiding you through each pour. Enjoy fresh produce platters as you learn about winemaking traditions and soak up vineyard views — an experience that lingers long after your last sip.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the light hit the rows of vines outside Rymill’s cellar door — kind of gold and green at once, like someone turned up the color just for us. Inside, it smelled faintly of oak barrels and something floral I couldn’t quite name (maybe that Gewürztraminer?). Our host, Anna, waved us in with a smile that made it feel like we’d wandered into a friend’s kitchen instead of a winery.

We settled in for our wine tasting — just forty-five minutes, but honestly, it felt unhurried. Anna poured each glass and told little stories about the grapes or who picked them last season. She laughed when I tried to pronounce “Petit Verdot” (I definitely butchered it), but she didn’t make me feel silly. The Sauvignon Blanc was crisp and bright, and there was this rosé that tasted like summer if you could drink it. We ordered a produce platter too — salty cheese, local olives — which made everything taste even better.

I kept glancing out at the vines while we sipped; there’s something about seeing where your wine comes from that makes every glass more interesting. The place is wheelchair accessible — I noticed another couple rolling in without any fuss — and nobody seemed rushed to finish up even though there were time slots. When we left, Anna said goodbye by name (which surprised me), and I still think about how easygoing it all felt. Not fancy or stiff, just real people sharing what they love.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Wine Tasting at Rymill Coonawarra

• Self-guided wine tasting

Top questions

How long does the wine tasting at Rymill Coonawarra last?

The seated wine tasting lasts 45 minutes due to current restrictions.

Is the wine tasting wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible at Rymill Coonawarra.

Are children allowed during the wine tasting?

Infants and small children can attend in a pram or stroller.

Can I bring my service animal to Rymill Coonawarra?

Yes, service animals are allowed during your visit.

What wines are included in the tasting?

You’ll sample a range including Sparkling Brut, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and more.

Is food available during the tasting?

Pre-prepared produce platters are available for purchase alongside your wine tasting.

Is transportation provided to Rymill Coonawarra?

No transportation is included; guests need to arrange their own travel to the winery.

What’s included

Your experience includes a seated wine tasting of several classic Coonawarra wines with guidance from an experienced cellar door host; alcoholic beverages are provided during your session. Produce platters can be purchased separately if you want something to snack on while you taste.