Our Vineyards
philosophy
As custodians of the some of the oldest vines in Australia, the philosophy to ‘be as light-footed as possible’, has been maintained for more than 130-years.
Image caption: Metala Vineyards
the land
In 1981, at just 17-years-old, fifth generation Guy Adams took over the management of the then 2500-acre mixed farm property. In the 1980’s, to restore stability to Australian viticulture, the Commonwealth government implemented the historic Vine Pull Scheme. Appreciating his family history and the importance his ancestors played in the building of, not only historic Metala wine in Langhorne Creek, but also the state of South Australia, Guy refused the financial reward and opted to plant more vines, taking the estate to 300 acres under vine.
Fuelled by the words on the Formby family crest, Seper Fidelis, meaning ‘always faithful’, and with an intrinsic sense of family, a historic vineyard in Langhorne Creek that is considered one of the most consistent wine regions in the country, Guy and his wife Liz, began two-decade long battle to return Metala to its rightful place. It was in 2022 that the dream became a reality and Metala returned to the family control.
Fuelled by the words on the Formby family crest, Seper Fidelis, meaning ‘always faithful’, and with an intrinsic sense of family, a historic vineyard in Langhorne Creek that is considered one of the most consistent wine regions in the country, Guy and his wife Liz, began two-decade long battle to return Metala to its rightful place. It was in 2022 that the dream became a reality and Metala returned to the family control.
In 1891 William and his son, Arthur, planted 21 rows of Shiraz and 14 rows of, what are now the oldest family-owned Cabernet Sauvignon vines in the world. In 1894, a further 5.4 acres of Shiraz were planted.
regenerative farming philosophy
the result
Metala embodies a deep passion and soul, reflecting over 180 years of heritage and dedication. It's more than just a vineyard; it's a living testament to the Formby family’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Each vine, carefully nurtured over decades, tells a story of resilience and tradition. The estate’s rich history is infused into every bottle, capturing the essence of Langhorne Creek’s unique terroir. From the meticulous cultivation of the oldest family-owned Cabernet Sauvignon vines to the innovative winemaking techniques, Metala represents a harmonious blend of time-honored practices and modern craftsmanship. It's this enduring passion and soul that continue to drive Metala, honoring its legacy while shaping its future.
vineyard map
The Metala vineyard map highlights its proximity to Lake Alexandrina, whose cooling breezes significantly enhance the terroir. This unique location fosters optimal grape growth, resulting in wines with exceptional balance and flavor. The lake's influence creates a microclimate that is ideal for producing high-quality Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.