Recently crowned winner of the Great Wine Capitals Best Of Wine Tourism Award for Architecture and Landscape for Adelaide, South Australia, Vinteloper is a wine destination that speaks beautifully to both heart and mind.
From Ashes to Architectural Wonder
Its revamped story begins with the devastation of the 2019 Cudlee Creek bushfire, which razed Vinteloper’s historic 1920 farmhouse. Rather than erase the past, Vinteloper’s owners embraced it. Collaborating with Detail Studio (exterior) and Studio Beal (interior), the team’s design philosophy of “re-imagining the ruin” resulted in a striking dialogue between heritage and modernity.
The cellar door is a bold fusion of old and new: original fire-scarred red bricks form the foundation, while charred timber beams stand as sculptural totems in the landscape. These elements are juxtaposed with contemporary materials, such as concrete, steel, and a copper roof. Inside, the industrial exterior gives way to warm, organic tones and plush furnishings, creating a space that feels luxurious and inviting to guests.
Why It Stands Apart
Vinteloper’s architecture is a physical manifestation of its story. Think of a phoenix: the building rose from its own ruins. Every detail tells a narrative of renewal, making a visit here an immersive experience in resilience and design.
Sustainability at Its Core
Vinteloper’s commitment to sustainability is as strong as its architectural vision. The cellar door boasts a 6-star energy efficiency rating, powered by a 30kW solar system with battery storage and additional solar capacity for EV charging. As a member of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia, Vinteloper integrates regenerative agriculture, biodiversity projects, and climate-conscious practices into its operations.
A Destination for All
Accessibility and inclusivity are woven into the building’s design, with wheelchair-friendly spaces and universal access facilities. Vinteloper actively contributes to regional tourism through events like Winter Reds and national showcases such as the Santos Tour Down Under, cementing its role as a landmark destination for the much-loved Adelaide Hills wine region – one of 18 distinct wine regions in South Australia.
Photos: Supplied by Vinteloper