Where winter’s hush meets the warmth of firelight and stories in every glass
There’s something truly special about the Fleurieu Peninsula in winter—the crisp air, the soft grey light, and the comforting warmth that comes from a crackling fire, a glass of red in hand, and a woolly jumper pulled close. It’s the perfect season to slow down, savour great wine, and soak in the simple pleasures of local cellar doors that feel like home.
If you’re planning a winter getaway or just looking for a weekend escape with friends, here are nine cosy cellar doors on the Fleurieu Peninsula where you can hunker down, taste exceptional wines, and soak up the warm, welcoming vibes that make this region so beloved.
1. Lake Breeze Wines
Nestled in Langhorne Creek, Lake Breeze is one of those cellar doors that instantly feels like a retreat from the outside world. In winter, their large stone fireplaces roar to life, casting a warm glow over rustic wooden beams and classic cellar tones. It’s a place where you can lose track of time over a glass of their renowned Bernoota
The staff here are famously friendly and knowledgeable, happy to share stories behind each vintage. The family heritage is prominent in your experience, with the family being on the same patch of dirt since the 1850's. Pair your tasting with a platter of local cheeses and charcuterie, or the Chef's Feed Me Menu and you’ve got a perfectly simple, satisfying winter afternoon.
2. Paxton Wines
At Paxton Wines, it’s all about unpretentious excellence. This boutique winery embraces a no-fuss philosophy, with bold, expressive wines to match. In winter, the cellar door becomes a cosy haven filled with hearty reds and plenty of fireside chatter.
Their standout Shiraz and Grenache are must-tries, bursting with rich berry fruits and subtle spice that pair beautifully with the colder weather. The vibe is intimate, with an artfully rustic setting that invites lingering. Not to mention all of the wines are certified organic and biodynamic.
3. Vigna Bottin
Vigna Bottin’s cellar door is like stepping into an old-world European winery, but with the warmth and friendliness that feels uniquely Fleurieu. In winter, the timber interiors and open fireplaces create an intimate atmosphere perfect for tasting their refined, elegant wines.
Their Mediterranean varieties are particularly noteworthy, showcasing delicate red fruits and savoury complexity — ideal for those slow, reflective winter moments. You can expect to find classic Italian varieties such as Montepulciano, Barbera and Sangiovese. You’ll also find beautiful small plates to complement your wine, making for a relaxed and indulgent experience. A little slice of Italy right here on the Fleurieu.
4. Alpha Box & Dice
A winter wine adventure would not be complete without checking out the funky winery creating the alphabet of wine. Known for its bold, experimental approach to winemaking, Alpha Box & Dice offers a modern cellar door experience with a cosy twist in winter. Think exposed brick walls warmed by flickering fireplaces, contemporary art, and a lively atmosphere where wine tasting feels like a casual celebration.
Their mission is to fulfil the alphabet of wine, a wine for every letter that's unique and thought provoking. Their adventurous blends and single varietals challenge expectations but always reward the palate. It’s the perfect spot for those who want a bit of edge with their warmth, with wines that spark conversation and firelight moments.
5. Maxwell Wines
Tucked into the heart of McLaren Vale, Maxwell plays an unsung yet significant role in the Fleurieu Peninsula’s reputation as one of Australia’s premier regional dining destinations. The legacy began in 1969, when Mark Maxwell’s father helped launch one of the region’s first noteworthy restaurants. Decades later, Mark continued that tradition by establishing Maxwell Wines — one of the earliest local wineries to offer its own onsite dining experience.
Today, Maxwell’s menu is a tribute to the Fleurieu’s rich agricultural offering, with seasonal, locally sourced produce brought to life alongside the winery’s bold, expressive wines. But it’s not just the food and wine that sets this place apart. Maxwell is also home to McLaren Vale’s only maze, as well as a unique limestone cave — a one-of-a-kind setting for intimate, private long lunches beneath the surface of the vineyard.
6. Hither & Yon
Nestled on Willunga’s iconic High Street, Hither & Yon is a celebration of seasonal, local living — from grass to glass. Their cellar door captures this spirit beautifully, offering a cosy, welcoming retreat that feels like a home away from home in the cooler months. With soft lighting, natural timber accents, and a crackling fire, it’s the kind of place that invites you to settle in and stay a while.
The wines at Hither & Yon are thoughtfully crafted to reflect the character of the land and the people behind them — expressive, honest, and full of heart. Pair your glass with one of their small plates, often showcasing fresh local produce that complements the wine in front of you. It’s more than a tasting — it’s a story of soil, family, and a deep connection to place.
7. Samuel’s Gorge
A family-owned winery with deep roots in the Fleurieu, Samuel’s Gorge offers a cellar door that’s equal parts rustic charm and modern comfort. The winter months bring a gentle hush to the vineyard, while inside, the fireplace crackles and glasses clink.
Their Grenache is a standout — vibrant yet smooth, with a touch of earthiness that suits cooler days perfectly. It’s the kind of place where you feel part of the family, with stories shared over great wine and hearty laughter. A humble crowd favourite on the Fleurieu.
8. Wirra Wirra
Wirra Wirra is a classic South Australian winery with a strong sense of tradition and a cellar door that embraces the cooler months with open arms. Their historic building is warmed by fires and the buzz of convivial tasting sessions.
The wines here are expressive and full-bodied, especially their flagship Shiraz and Grenache. Pair your tasting with a generous, rustic platter from the kitchen and settle in as the winter light slips behind the vines — a slow, golden unravelling that feels like a secret well kept.
9. Yangarra Estate
Last but not least, Yangarra Estate is a sanctuary for those who love precision and passion in winemaking. Their cellar door is elegant and slick, with deep wooden beams and stone floors that feel grounded and timeless.
In winter, a fire flickers in the hearth as you savour their thoughtfully crafted wines — Grenache and Shiraz that balance power with grace. The peaceful setting invites you to unwind, reflect, and fully immerse yourself in the flavour and atmosphere of Fleurieu.
Why Winter is the Perfect Time for a Cellar Door Visit
Winter on the Fleurieu Peninsula brings a unique magic to these cellar doors. The crowds thin out, the landscape softens under moody skies, and the wines reveal new layers of depth and character. There’s a rare intimacy to tasting by the fire, surrounded by friends old and new, sharing stories and soaking in the peacefulness of the season.
It’s also the perfect time to explore Fleurieu Unearthed — an annual season highlighting the region’s standout vino, experiences and culinary delights.
So, bundle up in your favourite woollies, gather your crew, and set out on a winter wine adventure through the Fleurieu Peninsula. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these nine cellar doors offer the perfect places to cosy up, sip deeply, and savour all the flavours and stories this special region has to offer.
