Varney Wines

Varney Wines is a boutique cellar door in a restored 1870s limestone barn on Victor Harbor Road at Old Noarlunga, with views out over the Onkaparinga Gorge country and a deliberately low-key, small-producer feel. For dog owners it works as a quiet alternative to the bigger McLaren Vale doors: the dog gets a lawn and a view, and you get a tasting that runs at your own pace.

The dog setup

The venue's own policy is straightforward: dogs are welcome on the verandah and outdoor areas, on a lead at all times, and stay out of the main tasting room. The grounds are not fenced or gated, so keep your dog close to your table rather than roaming. This is a small operation, so bring your own water bowl rather than counting on one being out, and pick up after your dog.

Worth knowing

Owner Alan Varney pours premium Grenache and small-batch, limited-release varietals, and the barn setting makes it feel more like a private tasting than a busy cellar door. Hours are limited, generally Friday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm, so check the website or socials before driving out.

Getting there and parking

The address is 62 Victor Harbor Road, Old Noarlunga, about 30 to 40 minutes south of the Adelaide CBD and a short hop north of the McLaren Vale township. Free on-site parking sits right by the barn.

Close by with the dogs

The Onkaparinga River Recreation Park has on-leash trails near the water for a walk before or after your tasting, and the Seaford off-leash dog beach is a short drive north if the dog needs a proper run. In McLaren Vale itself, Oxenberry Farm Wines, Chalk Hill Wines and Paxton Wines all take dogs in their outdoor areas. The South Australia wineries list and the Old Noarlunga guide cover more options.

Max: Verandah only, lead on, and mind the unfenced edges. A quiet weekday afternoon gets you the lawn to yourselves.