Dowie Doole: A Legacy of Terroir and Time

Located in the picturesque Fleurieu region of South Australia, Dowie Doole is nestled in McLaren Vale, surrounded by the southern Mount Lofty Ranges. Established in 1955 by Drew Dowie and Norm Doole, this winery benefits from a Mediterranean climate near the Gulf of St Vincent, which enhances the flavor and richness of its premium wines. Dowie Doole is dedicated to crafting wines that reflect the unique characteristics of their vineyards and the specific vintage. Their commitment to quality is evident in every bottle, with vineyards in the Tatachilla and Blewitt Springs sub-regions certified organic or in conversion.

Committed to generational farming, they nurture the land for future generations to enjoy.

A Healthy Living Ecosystem

At Dowie Doole, sustainable viticulture is a priority. The 53-hectare Tatachilla vineyard is biodynamic, featuring a stunning landscape planted with classic varietals such as Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and bush vine Grenache, some of which are over 50 years old. The 35-hectare Blewitt Springs estate, the newest addition, is home to Grenache and Shiraz vines saved from the 1980s vine pull scheme, with ages ranging from 50 to 70 years.

Artisan Wines from McLaren Vale

In 2015, Chris Thomas, who has been the chief winemaker since 2008, purchased Dowie Doole alongside fellow wine enthusiasts. Norm Doole remains a significant shareholder and chairman. With over 20 vintages under his belt, Chris's meticulous approach to winemaking has garnered recognition both in Australia and internationally. Since 2015, Dowie Doole has achieved a 5-star winery rating, boasting an impressive average wine score of 94.5/100, with many wines scoring above 95, and some reaching as high as 97.

Experiences to book at Dowie Doole

Top reviews

Will Briggs
January 18, 2025
Very picturesque cellar door, great wines and fantastic service, Julian knew his wines during our tastings and was a very friendly host.
Emma Derendorf
March 7, 2025
Our experience at Dowie Doole Cellar door was amazing. We had the whole place to ourselves (on Valentine’s Day no less!) and our host gave us an absolutely phenomenal experience. He taught us about the grapes used, notes in the wine, how the terrain affects the wine, reccomended new wines to try that fit our preferences and answered all our questions! Thank you so much for this amazing experience
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Location

Location 695 California Road, Mclaren Vale, SA, 5171, Australia

Region

Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia

Spoken Languages

Services

Reduced Mobility Access
Kids Activities
Pets Allowed

Wine types

Red Wine
White Wine
Rose Wine
Orange Wine
Sparkling Wine
Sweet Wine
Fortified Wine
Spirits

Grape varieties

Vermentino
Chenin Blanc
Chardonnay
Grenache
Merlot
Cabernet
Shiraz

Other wineries in South Australia

Visitor reviews

What our community thinks about Dowie Doole

Check out verified reviews from visitors who've enjoyed their time at Dowie Doole.

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Reviews (7)

Emma Derendorf
Reviewed on March 7, 2025

Our experience at Dowie Doole Cellar door was amazing. We had the whole place to ourselves (on Valentine’s Day no less!) and our host gave us an absolutely phenomenal experience. He taught us about the grapes used, notes in the wine, how the terrain affects the wine, reccomended new wines to try that fit our preferences and answered all our questions! Thank you so much for this amazing experience

Review provided by Google

Erin Day
Reviewed on February 28, 2025

Had the most fantastic experience here! We were the only customers as we went at an off peak time so felt super exclusive! Amazing setting and very fascinating history. Jack hosted us and was brilliant, taught us so much information and made the most unreal platter!! And great value for money. We will be coming back. Thank you Jack and team!

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Aaron Duncanson
Reviewed on February 18, 2025

Very informative and fantastic wine. The snack/food options are great and very generous. Prices are more than reasonable. Cannot recommend enough.

Review provided by Google

Swayne Rodrigues
Reviewed on February 16, 2025

Amazing vibe, great wines! Went over the weekend. We were probably the first to get there which made the tasting even more enjoyable, almost felt like a private experience. Managed to snap up so brilliant wines to remember the experience. The host was knowledgeable and very accommodating! Got a bit chilly as the rain came down, he even stepped out to offer us a blanket, great gesture!

Review provided by Google

Will Briggs
Reviewed on January 18, 2025

Very picturesque cellar door, great wines and fantastic service, Julian knew his wines during our tastings and was a very friendly host.

Review provided by Google

Frequently Asked Questions about Dowie Doole

Where is Dowie Doole located?

Dowie Doole is located in Mclaren Vale, Australia

What type of wines does Dowie Doole produce?

Dowie Doole produces Red Wine, White Wine, Rose Wine, Orange Wine, Sparkling Wine, Sweet Wine, Fortified Wine, Spirits.

What grape varieties do they plant at Dowie Doole?

At Dowie Doole, they cultivate Vermentino, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Grenache, Merlot, Cabernet, Shiraz.

What languages do they speak at the Dowie Doole?

At Dowie Doole they speak English.

Do they produce organic wines at Dowie Doole?

No, Dowie Doole is not an organic wine producer.