From the invention of the screwcap and cask wine in the 1960s and 70s – two iconic South Australian innovations that reshaped global consumption – to today’s app for wine lovers, South Australia continues to provide better ways to experience wine.
FOMENT, Australia’s first dedicated wine and tourism technology accelerator, launched in 2019 from Adelaide’s Tonsley Innovation Hub. FOMENT brought together start‑ups, researchers and industry leaders to solve real‑world challenges across the wine value chain. Its focus on smart technology, sustainability and visitor experience reflected South Australia’s commitment to future‑proofing its globally respected wine regions.
Some major producers have also embraced immersive technologies to engage domestic and global audiences, particularly to offer alternative wine tourism experiences during COVID-19. One example is Seppeltsfield Barossa, which pioneered virtual wine tourism in Australia with its 360‑degree VR tour. Developed in partnership with Adelaide‑based firm Schwerpunkt, the experience allowed users anywhere in the world to explore the historic estate, bringing Barossa’s heritage to life through digital storytelling.
Digital innovation is also transforming how visitors discover and engage with South Australia’s 18 distinct wine region destinations.
The Explore South Australia App is a trip planning tool, developed by the Government of South Australia’s South Australian Tourism Commission. It allows travellers to personalise itineraries based on filters and quiz answers, uncover cellar doors and experiences, and interact with the Chatbot to explore wine regions with ease – before they even arrive.
To be represented on the app accurately, South Australian wine tourism operators are encouraged to check their business details are listed correctly on the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW). The app pulls information such as opening hours and location to offer real-time information to users, showing visitors what’s good, open and nearby.
The app was launched in time for the major Australian football festival – AFL Gather Round in the Great Wine Capital of Adelaide, and just ahead of April school holidays, to encourage interstate visitors to make the most of their time in South Australia – and help locals discover some new favourites.
These initiatives reflect South Australia’s ability to blend tradition with technology. In a state where experimentation is celebrated and collaboration thrives, digital innovation becomes a natural extension of a world‑class wine culture that continues to evolve.
Photo: AFL Gather Round, Adelaide, South Australian Tourism Commission