Where to find the best Beers & Spirits in McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast

Hold onto your glass folks, because we're about to embark on a fabulous journey through McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast's with some of the best breweries, tap houses and distilleries!  

With each delicious sip, you'll uncover a world of intriguing flavours that'll have you buzzing with delight.  

So, whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, spirits fanatic or just curious about what the region has to offer outside of wine, we’ll take you on a whirlwind tour of taste sensations, and discover another side to McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast. 

BREWERIES 

Swell Brew Co, McLaren Vale 

Swell Brewing, just off Olivers Road is the ultimate place to enjoy a lazy afternoon. 

Kids will adore the spacious lawn while the adults settle in and make the most of the seriously chilled out vibes. 

With a tempting variety of craft beers on tap, and a mouth-watering menu full of classic pub-grub - think burgers, nachos and delicious southern fried chicken - it's perfect for a laid-back lunch.  

Just don't forget to give Mikey, Swell’s friendly taphouse pooch, a good ol' belly rub on your way out. 

A must-try: Their award-winning Golden Ale - clean, crisp and incredibly charismatic! 

Vale Brewing & Taphouse, McLaren Vale 

Perched atop a hill with postcard-worthy views of McLaren Vale’s famous vineyards as far as the eye can see, Vale Brewing, Restaurant & Bar is a paradise for foodies and tipplers alike.  

Sample their famous range of Vale Ale beers on tap, sip on a local wine or work your way through a delightful flight of whiskey or gin – it’s everything you want in one beautiful space.  

And don’t worry about getting hangry - their delectable menu - that includes anything from oysters and seafood to pizza and slow-cooked lamb - will leave you feeling well-satisfied.  

The cherry on top? It’s family-friendly too, with lawn games to keep the kids entertained.  

Come for the view, stay for the food and leave with a full belly! 

A must-try : The Vale Aus IPA… a twist on the usual, using Australian Hops! 

Goodieson Brewery, McLaren Vale 

Next time you’re in the ‘Vale, make sure you swing past Goodieson Brewery, tucked away on Sand Road. 

With their entire range of craft beers brewed (and bottled!) onsite - from classic Pale Ale and Pilsner to exciting special creations like Cherry or Chocolate stout - you’ll find something to tempt even the fussiest tastebuds. Don’t drink beer? There’s a cider ready to please. 

Kick back beneath the shady gum trees in their new outdoor area as you tuck into a tasting paddle (there’s plenty to try, after all!), and if you’ve got a burning question? No problem - Jeff, the head brewer, is often nearby and always up for a chat. 

Must-try: Their famous Coffee Stout… best enjoyed around a firepit beneath the stars. 

Shifty Lizard Brewing Co, Willunga 

Tucked away along High Street in the historic town of Willunga lies Shifty Lizard Brewing Co, a local favourite and must-visit for any craft beer buff.  

Be greeted by friendly staff who create an ambiance that’s as comfortable as chilling at your best mate's place, before indulging in a great variety of boutique beers. There’s even a tasting paddle if you’re feeling a little indecisive.  

And don't forget to sample a dish or two from their delicious menu, featuring traditional taphouse delicacies like loaded fries, hot wings and belly-filling burgers, plus smaller bites for the kids.  

For a taste of the local scene and a great brew, you won't regret stopping by Shifty Lizard Brewing Co. 

Must-try: Besides the very drinkable Sesh’n Ale, it’s gotta be their Notorious P.I.G. Loaded Fries. When you know, you know. 

South Coast Brewing Co, Willunga 

Looking for your new weekend hangout? South Coast Brewing Co is it.  

Open Friday to Sunday and the perfect place for a casual drink, this down-to-earth brewery is bursting with amazing ambiance, with plenty of space indoors and out for you to kick back and relax. 

Plus, the rustic, upcycled furniture made from old doors, pallets - even the odd surfboard - adds to the laid-back feel. 

So whether you're a beer connoisseur or just looking for a good time, South Coast Brewing Co has you covered with brilliant craft beers matched with brilliant service. 

And the best part? They're super dog-friendly, so bring your four-legged bestie along too! 

Must-try: Their uber-refreshing Chubby Unicorn Hard Lemonade 

Kick Back Brewing, Aldinga 

With its modern, trendy vibe and one of the best beer gardens you’ll find anywhere, Kick Back Brewing in Aldinga is the perfect spot to enjoy a lazy afternoon. 

If you’ve got the kids in tow, the fully fenced lawn is sure to be a drawcard, and with a full rotation of weekly events - like quiz nights and open mics, plus live music on weekends - this place is sure to be banging no matter when you pop in. 

And let's not forget the beer - their house-brewed ales are top-notch. A tasting paddle lets you mix and match to your heart's content, and even non-beer drinkers are sure to love their fruity sours.  

The food’s also a winner, with generous servings and mouth-watering options like big, hearty beef burgers, Mexi-bowls and halloumi fries.  

So if you simply want to chill out, cold brew in hand? Kick Back Brewing is a must. 

Must-try: The ever-popular Welcome Stranger Hazy IPA - creamy, luscious and packed with tropical flavour

DISTILLERIES 

Never Never Distillery, McLaren Vale 

Get ready to sip, savour and soak up some stunning McLaren Vale views. 

Modern, trendy and forming one third of the uber-popular Chalk Hill Collective complex, Never Never Distillery is the ultimate destination if you want to complement a day out with some seriously good gin. 

With a huge lawn that's equally as great for lounging around as it is letting the kids burn off some energy while you relax, its uber-chill vibe will make you feel right at home.  

Let the friendly staff take you on a gin journey with a tasting flight or their seasonal cocktails - you can even join a masterclass, complete with tour, to become a true gin connoisseur! 

And against a breathtaking backdrop of vineyard views, make sure to pair your drinks with some delicious food from Cucina di Strada next door. 

Must-try: Their ‘Ginache’ - an award-winning Grenache Gin, bursting with red berry flavours

Settlers Spirits McLaren Vale 

Entering Settlers Spirits is like walking into your favourite bar, only better - where you’re greeted by gorgeous scenery and a friendly smile every time. 

With stunning views and small batch spirits served with a smile, it's hard not to fall head over heels for this place. 

And it’s not just about the gin. They've got cocktails, whisky and mocktails to die for, and they even make their own tonic! 

The small batch tasting flight is an experience in itself - the herbs and fruits presented with each glass add so much to the already delectable flavours.  

But the real pièce de resistance? The masterclass. Have a blast tasting the different botanicals and blending them together to create your very own gin to take home.  

And when you’re done? Why not while away the afternoon out on the sunny deck or enjoy a cheese platter on the lawn.  

Must-try: The Breakfast Gin, infused with Earl Grey tea, honey and lemon - perfect served with a slice of orange. 

Ginny Pig Distillery, McLaren Vale 

One of the regions newest distilleries , you’ll currently find the award winning Ginny Pig tucked away in the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre. 

But far from being transient, this gin label is absolutely here to stay. 

Be prepared to be swept off your feet by their award-winning range that features irresistible infusions like blueberry or spiced fig. 

Oh-so-aromatic, and paired perfectly with a hand-picked selection of local artisan cheese as part of their signature gin flight, pull up a stool and enjoy a friendly conversation at the bar, or just enjoy a G&T or Spritzer on the lawns outside. 

Must-try: Their trophy-winning Botanic Gin is sure to leave a lasting impression! 

From smooth, creamy stouts and refreshing lagers to zippy gins and mind-blowing whiskies, McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast is truly a beer and spirit lover's paradise, with something for everyone to enjoy. 

So why not plan your next getaway to this beautiful region and experience the magic of these wonderful breweries, tap houses and distilleries for yourself? Who knows, you might just discover your new favourite drink! 

McLaren Vale Distillery, Blewitt Springs

Located on the northern end of McLaren Vale, with world-class views overlooking stunning vineyards, this is the perfect backdrop to enjoy unique tasting experiences, or even a wedding or special event. They are primarily a premium single malt whisky producer, but also make gin and fortified wines.

Must Try: Pennys Hill (Muscat Finish) Single Malt Whisky

Think Christmas Cake and mixed spices and brandied cherries!! This is a perfectly balanced whisky filled with flavour and award winning too!

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