Terroir
Down The Rabbit Hole sources fruit from certified organic vineyards across McLaren Vale, including the home vineyard in Willunga foothills, plus Blewitt Springs, McLaren Flat and Whites Valley. Each site contributes its own character, from the deep sandy soils of Blewitt Springs to the limestone-influenced clay loams of the Willunga foothills. Shaped by a Mediterranean climate and the cooling influence of Gulf St Vincent, these vineyards produce fruit with both concentration and freshness, forming the foundation of the Down The Rabbit Hole wines.
Heritage
Down The Rabbit Hole came into being in 2013, shortly after Domenic and Elise Palumbo married. Domenic, whose Italian family had long made wine at home, had developed an extensive background in hospitality, wine wholesale, retail and restaurant operations before embarking on his own label. Encouraged by friend and respected McLaren Vale winemaker Walter Clappis, he released his first Shiraz in 2013. What began as a small passion project quickly gained traction among consumers seeking wines that were expressive, approachable and true to place. Over the following decade the range has expanded and the audience has grown ito a devoted following. In 2019, the family opened its McLaren Vale cellar door on the property they call home, creating a destination that reflected not only the wines but the lifestyle, hospitality and sense of community that underpin the business.
Philosophy
Every decision, from vineyard selection to hospitality, is guided by the idea that great wine should enrich life’s moments, create connection and encourage people to slow down and share meaningful experiences. Fruit is grown organically farmed vineyards, with a minimalist approach in the winery focused on preserving purity, texture and vineyard character. Intervention is kept deliberately restrained, allowing variety, site and season to remain at the forefront. Rather than chasing trends or volume, each wine is released only when it meets the team’s expectations, resulting in a portfolio defined by consistency, drinkability and enduring consumer appeal. The philosophy extends beyond the bottle. Down The Rabbit Hole has built its reputation by creating experiences that feel personal, welcoming and memorable, connecting wine, food, hospitality and storytelling in a way that resonates with both traditional wine enthusiasts and a new generation of drinkers.
People
Down The Rabbit Hole was founded by Domenic and Elise Palumbo. Drawing on a background in wine wholesale, hospitality and restaurant management, Domenic created the label as an expression of his Italian heritage and belief in wine’s ability to bring people together. Central to the winery’s success is its long-standing partnership with acclaimed McLaren Vale winemaker Walter Clappis, a pioneer of organic and biodynamic viticulture with more than four decades of experience. What began as a mentorship evolved into an enduring collaboration, with Walter continuing to lead the winemaking alongside his daughter Kimberley Cooter and son-in-law James Cooter. Together, they combine deep regional knowledge, technical expertise and a shared commitment to expressive, site-driven wines. Alongside the winemaking team, Elise Palumbo (Elise Cook) has helped build a highly engaged consumer following, shaping a brand that connects contemporary wine drinkers with authentic experiences, hospitality and place.
Beyond the Vine
Down The Rabbit Hole has become one of Australia’s most talked-about wine tourism destinations, recognised as much for its hospitality experience as for its wines. Located on the family’s McLaren Vale property, the cellar door welcomes visitors into a whimsical and highly immersive setting centred around a restored vintage double-decker bus, expansive lawns and views stretching towards the coast. Guests can enjoy guided tastings, long lunches and the winery’s Italian restaurant, Fiore, which draws inspiration from Domenic’s family heritage. The experience reflects the brand’s philosophy of slowing down, connecting with others and celebrating everyday moments. Recently recognised with Halliday Wine Companion’s People’s Choice award for Cellar Door, the venue has become a benchmark for modern Australian wine tourism, attracting visitors from across the country and strengthening the winery’s reputation well beyond the bottle.
