Presenting a series of Sunday's showcasing the stories from Wine, Beer & Spirits of the Fleurieu.

These are reproduced with permission from Soul Publishing and Rojina Duval.

These stories feature prominent farmers, fishermen, producers and chefs – from Port Noarlunga to Cape Jervis – along with their favourite recipes and tips. Enjoy!

Daringa House is on the site of historic Oxenberry Farm, the first settlement in McLaren Vale.

Daringa, built in 1840 and the first house built in McLaren Vale, was inhabited by the Colton, Semmens and then Maxwell families until 2000, when the building slowly succumbed to the elements of time and became dilapidated.

In 2013, the Scarpantoni brothers, Fil and Michael, undertook the enormous task of restoring the ruins of Daringa to its former glory.

“It was a labour of love to preserve the earliest history of the region,” says Michael.

The restoration was completed in late November 2018 and is now open for the public to stay and experience the history of McLaren Vale.

“We kept the exterior completely original, as is most of the interior – but we’ve incorporated modern touches inside to provide luxury accommodation that captures the era in which it was built,” says Michael.

“Daringa House provides 5-star historic accommodation in arguably the prettiest and most scenic part of McLaren Vale, which is why it was the first spot to be settled.”

Overlooking wetlands, majestic gums and vineyards, with the Shiraz Walking Trail located right on its front door, Daringa House is within walking distance of McLaren Vale’s restaurants, cafes and services.

ADDRESS 26-28 Kangarilla Road, McLaren Vale

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