The McLaren Vale is a beautiful undulating countryside situated southeast of Adelaide along the Gulf of St. Vincent. The ironstone soil and Mediterranean climate create a perfect environment for the grapes that grow here. Dotted with many small wineries, the McLaren Vale produces outstanding red wines. It is best known for Australia's famous shiraz.

The grape growing history in the Vale dates back to 1838, but it wasn't until the late 1880s, led by the pioneering families of Johnston, Reynell, and Hardy, that viticulture became an important agricultural staple.

In 1881, Alexander Johnston purchased 120 acres of rich farmland east of the fledgling village of McLaren Vale. He named his land Pirramimma, an aboriginal phrase meaning the moon and the stars. It has been in family hands ever since. Today, grandson Geoff Johnston is the general manager and winemaker.

Under Geoff’s control, Pirramimma has made many significant changes, including the construction of a 10,000 square foot naturally cooled barrel storage facility made of rammed earth, and increasing the family land holdings to 600 contiguous acres, 450 of which are now planted to grapes.

In addition, to being one of the oldest winery estates in the Vale, Pirramimma is also one of the most respected.

"There is no disputing Pirramimma's position as one of the outstanding wineries in the McLaren Vale region."

James Halliday