It will be a sad Christmas for staff and patrons of Victor’s Place in Old Noarlunga, with its last service to be held on 23 December.

The extended road works of the Victor Harbor Road duplication project have caused the restaurant closure, according to the owners, winemaker Alan and restauranteur Kathrin Varney.

They posted a farewell notice on their website and Facebook page, saying,  “sadly, the disruptions and severe impacts of the Victor Harbor Road Duplication Project have made it impossible for us to continue to keep our restaurant and cellar door open.

“We have therefore made the decision to put all of our focus and energies into @varneywines and look forward to continuing to supply our loyal supporters with their favourite drops.”

The family bought the derelict property in in 2015 and renovated the 1870’s limestone barn into the cellar door and restaurant that opened in 2019.

The elegant building and associated environmentally sensitive winery have since formed a gateway to the McLaren Vale wine region.

The Varneys say they are proud of what they achieved in providing fine dining in a warm and welcoming venue and have thanks the supporters, staff and suppliers who made it possible.

The restaurant will continue to take bookings up to its final service on Friday 23 December. 

The Victor Harbor Road Duplication is expected to be completed in mid 2024 at an estimated cost of $92 million.