Heritage and Craftsmanship — A Legacy of Clare Valley Excellence

Located in the renowned Clare Valley of South Australia, Knappstein Wines is a historic winery recognized as a Red Five Star-rated estate. Founded in 1969 by third-generation winemaker Tim Knappstein, the winery has consistently upheld a terroir-driven philosophy, producing premium wines that reflect the unique character of the region. As one of Australia’s most iconic boutique wineries, Knappstein Wines is celebrated for its exceptional quality and legacy of craftsmanship, earning widespread respect and acclaim both domestically and internationally. Today, it remains a symbol of Clare Valley’s winemaking excellence.

Senior Winemaker ｜ Michael Kane

Since 2019, Michael Kane has served as the Senior Winemaker at Knappstein Wines, bringing renewed energy and creativity to the winery. He emphasizes that winemaking should showcase the terroir of the vineyard, allowing each bottle to reflect the unique character of the region.
Michael Kane’s philosophy centers on respecting nature and letting the grapes speak for themselves. He is dedicated to crafting wines that express the distinct terroir of Clare Valley, especially excelling in Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon, which have earned widespread acclaim.

Enterprise Vineyard｜Cabernet Sauvignon

Knappstein’s most iconic high-altitude vineyard features the renowned red Terra Rossa topsoil over a limestone subsoil, offering excellent drainage. This soil combination allows for moderate grape ripening, resulting in a wine with solid structure and distinctive minerality.

Key Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Style Characteristics: Fresh acidity, mineral expression, elegant finish
Winemaking Focus: Highlights the complexity of terroir and aging potential, making it a classic representation of Clare Valley.

Mayor’s Vineyard｜Shiraz

This premium Shiraz vineyard features old vines, many over 50 years old. Elevated terrain and extended sun exposure produce intensely concentrated fruit with profound flavors—ideal for long-aging red wines.

Key Variety: Shiraz
Style Characteristics: Blackberry, pepper notes, fine yet powerful tannins
Winemaking Focus: Emphasis on depth, aging potential, and old vine character—an exceptional wine from a limited-production vineyard.

Ackland Vineyard｜Riesling

Located in Watervale, one of Clare Valley’s premier Riesling zones, the Ackland Vineyard features red clay over limestone and shale gravel—ideal for white varieties. Large diurnal temperature swings preserve acidity, resulting in wines with refined aromas and elegant structure.

Key Variety: Riesling
Style Characteristics: Pure citrus, floral notes, crisp acidity
Winemaking Focus: A benchmark for vibrant, youthful white wine that also ages gracefully.