Title: History
Course: Adelaide Wine Industry > Section: Module 7: History

History

The history of the Adelaide wine industry is deeply rooted in the early European settlement of the region. The first vines in Adelaide were planted by European settlers in the early 19th century, with German settlers playing a pivotal role in the development of viticulture during this period[1]. The South Australian Company initiated the planting of vines in 1837 in Adelaide's West Parklands, followed closely by private vineyards[2]. Among the pioneering figures were J.B. Hack, Richard Hamilton, George Stevenson, and A.H. Davis, who planted the first vines around Adelaide and Glenelg between 1837 and 1839[3]. George Stevenson is noted for having planted a vineyard in Adelaide in 1838, potentially producing wine as early as 1841[4]. Meanwhile, John Reynell is credited with establishing the first commercial vineyard and winery in South Australia by planting vine cuttings he acquired in 1839[5]. The Adelaide Hills, a prominent wine region, saw the planting of vines as early as the 1870s. However, most were removed by the 1930s[6]. The resurgence of the Adelaide Hills wine industry began in the 1970s, driven by a new generation of winemakers who emphasized the unique terroir of the region[7]. Several historic wineries that were established between 1841 and 1853, such as Penfolds, Orlando, Seppeltsfield, and Yalumba, continue to be recognized names in the industry today[8]. The revitalization of the wine industry in the 1970s set the stage for contemporary winemaking in Adelaide, highlighting the region's long and distinguished tradition of viticulture[7].