The famous Coonawarra wine region, a strip of terra rossa soil known for producing some of the best wines in the world, is tucked away in the centre of South Australia’s Limestone Coast. Wynns Coonawarra Estate, a symbol of excellence, innovation, and tradition, is at its core. Wynns has solidified its reputation as a maker of exceptional wines that capture the essence of Coonawarra over the years.
A Legacy of Vision
The history of Wynns Coonawarra starts in 1891, when Scottish entrepreneur John Riddoch saw the area’s potential. On the renowned terra rossa soil—a rich, red clay-loam that sits on top of porous limestone and is ideal for viticulture—he planted vines. His audacious plan established the groundwork for the history of viticulture in the area.
The Riddoch vineyards were having financial difficulties by the 1920s, but in 1951 the property was purchased by Samuel and David Wynn, wine merchants from Melbourne. To revitalise the vineyards and make Coonawarra a world-class wine region, they renamed it Wynns Coonawarra Estate.
Terra Rossa: The Centre of Magnificence
Wynns’ distinctive terroir is inextricably related to its renown. A viticultural gem, the narrow band of terra rossa soil is only 20 kilometres long and 2 kilometres wide. It offers the ideal nutrient balance and drainage for growing high-end grapes, especially Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. These soils yield wines with remarkable structure, elegance, and longevity when paired with the extended ripening season and mild climate.
The uniqueness and character of Coonawarra are celebrated in the Wynns portfolio. The flagship Wynns Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon, which was initially made available in 1954, is at the centre. It has established itself as a collector’s favourite and is regarded as one of Australia’s most iconic wines due to its consistency and ageability.
Noteable wines
Michael Shiraz This limited-edition Shiraz honours Michael Wynn by showcasing the finest fruit from outstanding vintages.
The Cabernet Sauvignon of John Riddoch The ultimate expression of Wynns’ skill, this wine is a very limited-edition release dedicated to the estate’s founder.
The V&A Lane Range offers contemporary interpretations of traditional styles while showcasing the area’s distinctive microclimates and nuances.
Innovation and Wynns
Wynns has welcomed innovation despite its deep roots in tradition. A little environmental impact and the creation of top-notch wines are guaranteed by investments in sustainable vineyard practices, careful canopy management, and cutting-edge winemaking technologies. Alongside its vineyards, Wynns maintains native vegetation as part of its strong commitment to biodiversity.
Wynns’s ability to strike a balance between heritage and contemporary is what makes it so appealing. Thanks to generations of viticulturists and winemakers who have tended its vineyards and improved its methods, Wynns is now a byword for excellence and genuineness.
Wynns Coonawarra is a cultural icon in addition to its wines. The estate’s antique cellar entrance and winery are architectural gems that invite guests to enjoy the area’s elegance and legacy. Every year, wine lovers eagerly await the Wynns Day Release, which provides an opportunity to sample new releases and uncommon vintages.
More than just a winery, Wynns Coonawarra Estate is a representation of South Australia’s winemaking excellence. Every bottle conveys the tale of the people, the land, and the passion that characterise Coonawarra. Wynns keeps producing wines that honour its legendary heritage while also paving the way for an exciting future as the decades pass.
The wines
