Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel Signature Tasting Experience & Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to the Barossa Valley and considering a wine experience that combines tasting, education, and food, the Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel Signature Tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally done this tour, reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture, especially if you love wine that’s a little different from the usual.

What really stands out is the focus on the Double Barrel wines, which are matured first in traditional barrels and then finished in spirits barrels like whiskey or tequila. Plus, the included lunch at Harvest Kitchen adds a nice touch, making it more than just a tasting. However, as with many wine tours, the price can seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but the experience aims to deliver more than just wine sips.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, in-depth look at wine-making, a friendly guide, and delicious food. It’s not necessarily a family-friendly activity unless you’re okay with the wine-focused nature—think of it as a trip for adults who want to truly understand what makes these wines special.

Key Points

• Unique Wine Style: Tasting wines finished in spirits barrels like whiskey, rum, or tequila offers a different flavor profile you won’t find elsewhere.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable hosts walk you through the evolution of the Double Barrel range, making it educational and informative.
• Beautiful Setting: Starting at the onsite vineyard with stunning views in the Barossa Valley, the scenery enhances the experience.
• Food Pairing: The Feed Me Like a Barossan lunch at Harvest Kitchen complements the wines perfectly, showcasing local produce and flavors.
• Intimate Group Size: With a max of 8 travelers, the tour feels personal and relaxed, ideal if you prefer smaller groups.
• Pre-Booking Recommended: Book about a month in advance, as it tends to fill quickly, especially in peak seasons.

What to Expect from the Tour

A Taste of Innovation with Double Barrel Wines

The core of this experience is understanding and tasting the Double Barrel wines, which are a special style of wine-making. These wines are first matured in traditional barrels, then finished in second-use spirits barrels such as whiskey, cognac, rum, or tequila. This process creates a layered, complex flavor that’s quite different from standard wines.

This method of aging isn’t just a gimmick; it’s designed to add depth, spices, and sometimes smoky notes, which are unique to each spirit barrel used. You’ll learn about the original concept behind these wines, the innovation involved, and how this premiumization sets Jacob’s Creek apart.

Guided Tour of the Vineyard

The experience starts with a hosted walk around the onsite display vineyard. Here, your guide shares insights into the vineyard’s layout, grape varieties, and how the environment influences the wines. The walk is an opportunity to see the vines up close and get a sense of the place where all this magic happens.

The Tasting Session

Following the tour, you’ll move into the tasting. Expect to sample the cellar-door exclusive Double Barrel VSOP and other varieties from the Double Barrel range. Many reviewers appreciate the knowledge and enthusiasm of the staff, which brings the tasting to life. One reviewer mentions, “The staff were warm, friendly and knowledgeable,” which makes the experience more engaging than just sipping wine blind.

The tasting not only highlights the different flavor profiles but also explains how aging in spirits barrels influences taste. For those curious about wine-making innovations, this part offers genuine insight.

Lunch at Harvest Kitchen

After the tasting, you have the option to enjoy your Feed Me Like a Barossan lunch, scheduled at around midday or after your tasting session. The lunch is designed as a tapas-style experience, with seasonal produce and impeccable presentation. It’s paired with two glasses of Jacob’s Creek wines that complement the dishes well.

Reviewers rave about the meal—one called it “superb,” with “presentation being impeccable,” and praised the chef’s use of seasonal ingredients. While the menu isn’t detailed here, the focus is on delivering a delicious, well-curated meal that pairs perfectly with the wines.

The Group Dynamics and Duration

The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. With a maximum of 8 participants, the group size makes for a friendly, personalized vibe. This is ideal if you want more interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At $132.69 per person, this experience isn’t cheap, but it’s important to consider what’s included. You’re getting a guided tour, exclusive tastings, and a curated lunch—elements that, combined, can be quite valuable. Many reviews seem to agree that the experience exceeds expectations, especially praising the knowledgeable staff and quality of the food.

Some might feel the price reflects a premium experience, but if you’re into learning about wine-making and tasting innovative wines, it’s likely worth it. Plus, the intimate group size and beautiful setting add to the sense of occasion.

Practical Tips

• Book well in advance—about 26 days ahead on average—especially if visiting during peak seasons.
• Arrive on time—the tour begins at the designated meeting point at 2129 Barossa Valley Way, Rowland Flat.
• Plan your lunch at 12 pm if you want to enjoy the meal, and arrive accordingly.
• Service animals are allowed, which is thoughtful for those traveling with pets.
• Cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What Do Travelers Say?

Fan reviews highlight the warm, knowledgeable staff and the stunning views as big positives. Multiple reviews call it a “must-do,” praising the wine quality, the setting, and the lunch. Many mention that the experience exceeded their expectations, with one even calling the wine tasting “top-notch.”

There are a couple of less positive comments, mainly about service attitudes, but these seem to be isolated incidents. Overall, feedback points to a well-organized, enjoyable experience for those genuinely interested in wine and food.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers who want something more than just a tasting—those interested in the story behind innovative wines. It’s a great choice for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a relaxed, educational outing in the Barossa.

If you’re after a quick, budget-friendly wine stop, this might be overkill. But if you’re ready to indulge in a memorable afternoon, learn about a unique wine-making style, and enjoy top-quality food and scenery, this tour ticks the boxes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is focused on wine and includes alcoholic tastings, so it’s best suited for adults. The experience is quite relaxed and educational, but not specifically designed for kids.

How long is the experience?
It lasts about 3 hours, including the vineyard walk, tasting, and lunch.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking around a month early is recommended as it tends to fill up, especially during busy times.

What is included in the price?
The guided tour, tastings of exclusive wines, and a curated feed-me lunch with two wine pairings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, a maximum of 8 travelers, making for a personal experience.

What kind of wines will I taste?
Exclusive Double Barrel wines matured in spirits barrels, including the VSOP and other varieties.

Can I enjoy the lunch before or after the tasting?
Lunch is scheduled at 12 pm and can be enjoyed either before or after the 11 am or 2 pm tasting sessions.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for walking outdoors and indoors.

Is it worth the price?
Most reviews suggest yes, especially for those interested in innovative wines and a premium experience with good food in a beautiful setting.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a thoughtfully curated experience that combines expert-guided wine tasting with a delicious local meal, Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel Signature Tour is worth considering. The focus on innovative wine styles and the intimate group size make it a memorable way to spend part of your time in the Barossa.

While the cost isn’t insignificant, many travelers find the depth of knowledge, quality of wines, and scenic setting justify the price. It’s particularly suited for wine enthusiasts, curious foodies, or anyone wanting a relaxed, educational outing in one of Australia’s premier wine regions.

For those who value a more personal touch, stunning views, and truly unique wines, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to book early and arrive ready to enjoy a truly special afternoon.