Gibson Wines | Barossa Valley
Gibson Wines is off the beaten track. But that is the way this family-owned winery likes it.
Tucked away in the North-Eastern corner of the Barossa, the closest village of Light Pass is home to just 250 residents. Around the corner, on Willows Road, sits Gibson’s winery and cellar door. Characteristically unassuming, the roadside entrance gives little away. A rickety, rusty, tin-roofed cottage is set back from a vineyard no bigger than a postage stamp. Home originally to a Blacksmith’s family, its walls are made of ‘pug’ – a mix of mud and straw. Its bowed timbers reflecting a 170 year-life lived in scorching Barossa summers, and bone-chilling winters. But as visitors arrive, meandering behind this old cottage lovingly known as ’The Smithy’, a secret place is discovered.
Nestled opposite to The Smithy, is a modern, cozy tasting room of terracotta, white oak and deep mauve finishes. A timber batten raked ceiling encloses a small, light-filled space. Pendant lighting, polished flooring and mid-century styled furnishings adds sophistication to a simple, down-to-earth vibe. The cutest fireplace in the Barossa is found right here.
Gibson’s Cellar Door has received a premium refurbishment. By renowned South Australian tourism architects, S2 Architects. Local Barossa Valley-based builders, Underwood, carried out custom carpentry and joinery. Furnishings supplied by Concept Collections.
With a personality that is relaxed and entwined, a visit is a connected, rustic romance. The interior of the cellar door was constructed in early 2024, and involves:
- A warm, family environment that is generational, lightfilled, genuine and natural. There is an excitement and connection that only close friends can share.
- A delicate simplicity and earthiness that inspires comfort and connection. It is small scale and intimate, even though there can be hundreds of people there.
- Spaces are luxurious and grounded. They are intimate and also have strong connections with their surroundings.
- Materials: Luxurious but rustic, earthy and natural. Big, solid elements paired with more refined textural flourishes. Softness. Timber, mud brick, stone and glazing.
