Why Visit Howard Vineyard?
- You are looking for diversity in your tasting line up
- You love a laid back tasting experience with friendly staff
- You’re in the mood for a bite to eat while out tasting in Adelaide Hills
- You’re in search of a wedding or event venue
If you’re looking for a laid-back, relaxed tasting highlighting the fantastic cool climate varieties grown in Adelaide Hills, then look no further than Howard Vineyards. The cellar door sits on a piece of land discovered by Amos Howard in 1890 in a gorgeous valley of the Adelaide Hills region. Amos was originally attracted to the land by subterranean clover peeking up from the ground, leading Mr. Howard to believe he found exceptional soil to start his farm. Today, that subterranean clover continues to grow at the site, helping to replenish Nitrogen levels in the soil, thus ensuring higher quality soil for the vineyards.
Tom Northcott is the winemaker at Howard Vineyards. He actually grew up working the vineyards and in the cellar door. After obtaining a Bachelor Degree in Viticulture and Oenology, Tom ventured off to work vintages in Tasmania, Barossa Valley, Western Australia and the South of France. In 2013, he returned to Howard Vineyard as Executive Winemaker. With Tom at helm, Howard Vineyard aims to produce textural, elegant, cool climate wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Adelaide Hills region. In my opinion, Tom has definitely achieved this with an array of varieties on offer including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Grüner Veltliner, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon. They make sparkling wines, too! Honestly, I enjoyed every single wine we tasted there which anyone who regularly goes wine tasting knows is not an easy feat for a winery to accomplish.
Not only are the wines exceptional, but Howard Vineyard also has a restaurant called Clover for anyone needing to grub while out in the Hills. I didn’t eat there on my visit as we visited mid-vintage when all we really wanted was to drink. 😉 But the menu looks amazing! The winery also serves as a venue for weddings and functions. Plus, they have live music from time to time and you can play croquet while sipping on vino on their beautiful estate. Two thumbs up! Would recommend. Definitely give Howard Vineyard a visit when you’re in Adelaide Hills!
My favorite wines – 2018 Cabernet Franc (served chilled) & 2018 Grüner Veltliner
