Adelaide Hills

Adelaide Hills is an Australian Geographical Indication (AGI - similar to the European Designation of Origin system) wine region to the east of Adelaide, in the Mount Lofty Ranges Wine Zone, South Australia, Australia. Wine was produced in the Adelaide Hills from as far back as the 1870s, until vines were removed in the 1930s. Planting and production then recommenced in earnest in the 1970s, and the Adelaide Hills has since acquired a strong national and international reputation for high quality cool climate wines. While reds are more prevalent in the north of the region, and whites are more prevalent in the centre, altitude and aspect significantly inform the quality and output of individual vineyards. Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc is widely regarded as amongst Australia's best. The region also produces excellent Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (for both table and sparkling wines), as well as Pinot Gris and cooler styles of Shiraz. The Adelaide Hills is also home to an increasing number of 'natural' wine producers who are challenging wine making convention and techniques using both established and emerging varietals.