Winery & Vintage Info
Six generations have nurtured some of the most historic vineyards in Australia.
In 1839 William Formby arrived in Australia from the United Kingdom and it was in 1882, after four decades pioneering South Australia, he purchased the now historic Metala estate.
In 1891 William and his son, Arthur, planted 21 rows of Shiraz and 14 rows of, what are now the oldest family-owned Cabernet Sauvignon vines in the world. In 1894 a further 5.4 acres of Shiraz were planted.
After almost five decades making Metala wine in a purpose-built winery on the estate, the winemaking was transferred to Arthur’s Brother-in-Law, at Stonyfell Cellars. In 1962 Metala Shiraz Cabernet 1961 won the most coveted Australian wine accolade, the inaugural Jimmy Watson Trophy, becoming one of the most recognisable wines in the country. The wines continued to be made here until management shifted to various holdings beginning with Dalgety Wine Estate in the early 1970’s.
In 1981, 5th Generation Guy Adams took over the management of the mixed farm estate. With a sincere appreciation and respect of viticulture and to family legacy, Guy, together with his wife Liz, began a 20-year long battle to return Metala to its original home. In 2022 the dream became a reality and Metala came home to Langhorne Creek and the family who planted and have nurtured the vines for more than 130 years. Winery Notes
