Hints & Tips
Climate
Spring (September - November), brings a fresh vitality to the Barossa: sunny with a crispness in the air, an abundance of wildflowers and a great time for nature walks. Suitable for lighter clothing during the day and warm clothing for the cool evenings.
Summer (December to February),brings plenty of sunshine and warm days. The average temperature is is about 29 degrees celcius, but hot days of 35 degrees can occur. Shorts and short sleeves are in order here. Balmy evenings are ideal for outdoor dining.
The Autumn months (March - May), especially March and April, bring mild days with chilly evenings. The autumn leaves on the vines are a sight to behold. Wear light clothing during the day but bring some warm clothes for the evening.
The Winter months of June, July and August bring chilly days and cold nights during which warm Barossa hospitality can be enjoyed in front of a cosy log fire. Warm clothing and an umbrella are advisable.
Transporting Your Wine
Wine doesn't really enjoy travelling. If you are carrying wine in vehicles, don't leave it in the car on a warm day. Stories abound of corks spontaneously popping, bottles leaking, or corks moving and so allowing air in which causes rapid oxidization.
Many wineries can send your wine home using specialist wine transport services, which can be arranged at the time of purchase. Once home safely, bottles should be left unopened for a few days to recover from travel induced 'bottle shock'. Cellar door staff can provide further advice regarding wine transport and storage.
Don't forget to pack your bottle opener when you head to the Barossa - you won't want anything to stand between you and a taste of your new favourite wine.
Visiting the homes of the Barossa's world-famous wine labels is a must, but don't ignore the smaller cellar doors. These are the places where you'll discover that divine new wine you can wow your friends with back home.
Phylloxera
The Barossa is world famous for its old heritage vines. These vines exist because the Barossa, and all of South Australia, is free from phylloxera, an insect that kills grapevines. Please help protect our heritage vineyards by observing the following when visiting vineyards and wineries:
- Don't walk through the vineyards, stick to the designated paths.
Never drive a vehicle into a vineyard without permission from the vineyard owner. - Check your shoes for dirt when leaving a vineyard, and scrape them clean before you leave.
- If you have recently visited vineyards in the Nagambie, Mooroopna, Upton, Yarra Valley, King Valley, Albury-Wodonga, Rutherglen or Sydney regions, please do not enter a vineyard or winery without the owner's permission.
Water preservation
While you're on holiday in South Australia, we need you to help us preserve our precious water. You can do this by keeping your showers short (less than five minutes), washing boats or vehicles with a bucket instead of a hose, cleaning fish in basins rather than running water, and adhere to any water restrictions that may apply during your holiday. For more information, please visit the Watercare website.
Personal Protection Program
South Australians enjoy a very safe environment and you can play your part in reducing crime. When travelling, close your vehicle windows and conceal all valuables including your purse, handbag, shopping, phone and laptop. When parking, lock your vehicle and don't leave your keys where they can be found.
If you notice anything unusual or anyone acting suspiciously, report it to the police. Phone 131 444 for police assistance or 000 for emergencies. If you have information relating to a crime, contact BankSA Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Fires
A fire danger period exists between November and April each year in South Australia. This can be extended, depending on the seasonal weather conditions. During fire danger periods there are fire restrictions that apply, including total fire ban days. For up to date details of fire bans, visit the Country Fire Services's fire bans page or telephone 1300 362 361.
