Col McBryde, a winemaker based in the Clare Valley, South Australia, is building a reputation for producing high-quality wines from century-old vines with a focus on rigorous craftsmanship and a modest approach. Together with Jen Gardner, whom he met during their studies at the University of Adelaide in 2001, McBryde has revitalized the historic vineyard on Wendouree Road East, a site notable for its proximity to renowned estates such as the Brady family’s property.

The couple shares a background rooted in winemaking science, both holding PhDs—with McBryde specializing in wine yeasts—and a mutual passion for exploring the potential of the vineyard’s ancient shiraz vines, which date back to 1915. Their collaboration at Adelina has resulted in a collection of wines grounded in deep respect for the land and a commitment to sustained vineyard health, ensuring its vitality for decades to come.

Adelina’s portfolio reflects this careful stewardship and close understanding of site expression. The flagship Adelina ‘Estate’ Shiraz 2024, retailing at $55, is crafted from the oldest vines on the property. It offers aromas of dark raspberry, black cherry, and hints of Dutch cocoa and ironstone, with flavors of salted plum and dried herbs. The wine is characterized by fine acidity and tightly structured tannins, delivering substance and finesse at 14% alcohol, and has received a score of 96 points.

Another release, the Adelina ‘Estate’ Shiraz Malbec 2024, available for $28, incorporates younger vines to showcase the vineyard’s distinctive character. This blend balances ripe plum and dried cherry notes with violet and licorice, presenting precise focus and energetic tension across the palate. The wine features taut, shale-inspired tannins at 14% alcohol, earning 94 points for its expression and value.

Completing the current range is the Adelina ‘Estate’ Shiraz Mataro 2024, priced at $38. This blend combines familiar varieties harmoniously, delivering dark berry, cocoa, and quince paste aromas with a floral complexity. The wine has a lithe structure, offering depth without heaviness, and features crushed chalk tannins with a sinuous and dexterous profile. It also carries a 14% alcohol content and achieved 96 points.

McBryde’s wines have drawn comparisons to those produced by the neighboring Bradys estate, although he himself prefers to avoid direct comparisons. Instead, he emphasizes a philosophy centered on continual learning and listening to the vineyard rather than imposing ego on the winemaking process.

The Adelina wines demonstrate an evolving understanding of old vines and site-specific winemaking, positioning McBryde and Gardner among a new generation of winemakers balancing tradition with innovation in one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions.