The Camden area boasts a rich history of viticulture and wine production. South Australia's first planting of shiraz grapes was with cuttings sourced from Camden Park.
Pioneered by settlers who recognised the suitable soils and climate, vineyards flourished, producing wines renowned for their quality. Over time, the local wine industry has evolved to embrace modern techniques while preserving traditional practices. Table grapes were also grown on a considerable scale until the middle of the 20th century.
In the early forties Camden Park experienced success in establishing the growth of the grape-vine and in wine making, founding another industry in the Colony.
The services of viticulturalists, together with the experience gained by both James and William Macarthur in France, and the importation of good stock or vine cuttings, provided an initial start on the right lines. Then came the cask making for the storage of wine, and for this Cooper Michael Young, father of the late Michael Young of Camden and Elderslie, was brought out prior to 1850.
The growing of the grape-vine has been in progress in the district ever since. Winemakers were active at Elderslie, but of late years the vine has been cultivated for the fruit, for which a ready market has been found in Sydney.