Paxton Wines

Paxton Wines is a gorgeous little McLaren Vale winery set up on the historic Landcross Farm. The farm dates back to the 1860s when it was primarily used to raise sheep. The winery was established in 1979, followed by the cellar door opening in 2005 to host weddings and events. The original stone buildings have been lovingly restored, maintaining their original rustic charm. Modern amenities have been tastefully added for comfort and convenience. The area is surrounded by sloping vineyards, native gum trees and banksias, and lush green lawns.

Paxton Wines can cater for weddings of between 75 and 200 guests. They boast a personalised experience, claiming to use a “sky’s the limit” approach to uniquely tailor to each couple’s wishes. The venue can host weddings in a few different locations:

• Gribble Green is the lower lawn area, offering views along the valley all the way to the Willunga foothills. Ceremonies and open-air receptions can be held here, or a large marquee can be set up to seat 200 guests.
• Wheaton Pavillion is a converted old barn with stone walls and clear plastic blinds, allowing a comfortable sheltered area with a bright, outdoorsy feeling. 120 guests can be seated on long tables, or a cocktail-style affair can fit larger numbers standing around tall wine barrels.
• Ridley Strip is another lawn area located above the pavilion, featuring a sunken courtyard nook paved with slate and rimmed with climbing vines. This is a perfect spot to set up lawn games, a chill-out area, or an outdoor dance floor.

Couples have the freedom to choose their own catering options, while Paxton Wines can provide the wine and beverage packages. The wines produced here have the added bonus of being fully certified organic and biodynamic (check them out with a cellar door tasting any day between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.) A centrally located catering area has space for mobile fridges, ovens and other catering requirements, as well as power and water. The staff at Paxton Wines can help you with suggestions of suppliers and caterers.

As for photo opportunities, plenty of areas within strolling distance around the property can provide picturesque backdrops. Wander among the rows of bright green vines in spring and summer, or watch the leaves turn dusky hues of red and yellow in autumn. Pose against the rustic walls of the cute stone cottages, or stand in the foreground of a panoramic view of the valley. The long driveway provides the perfect situation for a dramatic entrance of a bridal car procession.

Ceremonies can begin as early as 4:00 pm, and last drinks can go up until 11:00 pm. Pets are more than welcome here; previous couples have successfully included their furry family members as part of their ceremony!

Located only 45 minutes from the city of Adelaide, Paxton Wines is tucked just off the main road into McLaren Vale, but feels miles away. From the cellar door you can’t tell that the busy heart of the region is only a couple of minutes away. Here there are plenty of handy accommodation options and other attractions to check out. The wedding after-party can carry on at nearby McLaren Vale pubs, or shuttle buses, Ubers or taxis can easily transport guests to the city or their places of accommodation.

Overall, Paxton Wines is a wonderful choice for couples wanting a wedding with a scenic outdoor setting, and the freedom to start with a beautiful blank slate. The venue can be designed and tailored to suit a variety of styles, and is perfectly located for a private, intimate feel without being too far away from conveniences.

Photography by Svenstudios