Surprisingly (or maybe not to some of you), some of the best olives and olive oils come from one of Australia’s premier wine-growing regions. In fact, it’s not uncommon in McLaren Vale for family vineyards to be lined with olive trees, with many wineries and neighbouring properties tending to their own olive groves.
McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast’s Mediterranean climate has led to a deserved reputation for its olives which is a perfect accompaniment to cheese and wine…it’s a match made in heaven!
Today, there are dozens of olive groves thriving in the region, with a collective of passionate producers hand-picking, brining and bottling world-class olive oils and table olives.
Check out a few ‘must-sample’ as you taste your way around the region.
- Coriole Vineyards is one of the region’s oldest olive producers, hand-picking and brining all at their own winery since the 1990s. Coriole is one of the founding fathers of olive oil and table olive production in the region and is home to several groves of olives, some of which date back to the late 19th Century. Their range includes the classic Kalamata and Verdale, as well as the small, sweeter Koroneiki and the popular chef’s blend featuring a mix of them all.
- The Farm Willunga is situated on a picturesque 15-acre olive grove. All organic, and maintained by the owners themselves, the groves are also home to a cafe, accommodation and farm shop. Their olive brand Lucilla produces an Extra Virgin Olive Oil, house-brined olives, and skincare products including soap, lip balm, moisturiser and massage oil.
- Willunga Farmers Market is home to some of the region’s much-loved olive growers, including The Farm and Bush Organics, which produce a cold-pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Look out too for producers Two Hills and a Creek, and Virgaras, who also sell at the market.
- Primo Estate Winery is another local favourite and you know it’s good when the locals are always there. While you should undoubtedly visit Primo to sample their wines, don’t forget to try their award-winning Joseph olive oil. Winemaker and olive oil guru Joe Grilli is well known across Australia for his quality products, and you might even be lucky enough to have a chat with him during your visit.
- Lloyd Brothers Wine & Olive Company set on an olive estate, is nothing short of spectacular. Think olive tree lined driveway, large dramatic metal sculptures and lush lawn surrounding a dam – picture perfect on a sunny day. Lloyd Brothers are a cellar door too, offering just the spot to sit back and relax whilst enjoying wine with a regional produce platter (including their olives of course!) Their boutique olive inspired gift shop is hard to resist, making finding the perfect present for the family, friend or neighbor easy – don’t forget to buy for yourself too! If you are visiting between late May through to early July, you may find the pickers in the groves.
