‘Maggie has left the building’ were the first words that registered as I walked into Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop in South Australia’s beautiful Barossa Valley.
“She was here all morning”, her staff bravely shared to my disappointed face.
If it hadn’t been for the rich and varied wines that we tasted after walking through Langmeil Winery and enjoying the story of the vines, I would have been severely disappointed. But more important things – lunch awaited.
I don’t know whether Maggie has secretly hidden rosemary scent sprays at the entrance to her shop but the warm aroma wafts through the air hinting at the foodie delights inside. It was a busy Saturday in the shop and the atmosphere was buzzing as locals and visitors sought to try, taste and purchase Maggie’s products.
The Farm Shop offers short run products based on the best quality produce in season – maybe a ute full of peaches or a trailer of blood oranges. The shelves are stuffed with an amazing array of Maggie goodies which you just won’t find anywhere else. If only I had brought a bigger bag and a freezer with me!
Located in the heart of the Barossa Valley, the Farm Shop is one hour's easy drive from Adelaide.
Their lunch menu runs from the time of opening at 10.30am through until 5pm. You can pick your own collection of goodies from Maggie’s famous delectable - pates (of course!), terrine, cheeses, olives, woodfired bread and quince paste or select one of the basket offers. The picnic baskets cost $15 each.
When the tables are full, as they were during our visit, the gently sloping grass bank by the dam under the gum trees is a more than adequate compromise. In fact I preferred it – so much more atmospheric and definitely more Maggie!
It’s a leisurely way to enjoy lunch and there’s plenty of room to stretch out for a nano nap afterwards if you wish.
Pheasant Farm Road, Off Samuel Road, Nuriootpa, South Australia. +61 8 8562 4477
Disclaimer: Eat, drink + be Kerry travelled courtesty of South Australian Tourism and Accor.
Disclaimer: Eat, drink + be Kerry travelled courtesty of South Australian Tourism and Accor.