15 Of The Must-Visit Clare Valley Wineries

We’ve scoped out the place and pulled together the 15 best Clare Valley wineries and cellar doors for you to explore.

Clare Valley might be one of South Australia’s more humble wine regions, but there’s plenty to love in this charming and historic slice of Oz. Scattered along a fertile valley just 90 minutes north of Adelaide, Clare Valley wineries are known for their world-famous riesling, as well as red varietals including shiraz and cabernet. Like their most famous drop, the best wineries in Clare Valley are beautiful in their unassuming subtly, offering a delicious pay-off for those willing to take their time and appreciate the quiet magic of the place.

We’ve scoped out the place and pulled together the 15 best Clare Valley wineries and cellar doors for you to explore.

1. Tim Adams Wines

One of our favourite Clare Valley wineries, the relaxed Tim Adams Wines is nestled among the gum trees in Clare. Sit on the balcony and taste a selection of five single-vineyard varietals paired with cheeses designed to complement and enhance the flavours of the drop ($35 per person).

biking along gum trees in Tim Adams Wines — Wind your way through the gum trees at Tim Adams Wines. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

The riesling is popular, but our personal pick is the crisp and peachy pinot gris – perfect drinking for a warm summer evening. Bookings are recommended, especially during the peak season (December – February).

friends drinking al fresco at Tim Adams Wines — The al fresco spot is perfect for warm summer drinking. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 156 Warenda Rd, Clare

2. Jim Barry Wines

It’s well worth a visit to the cellar door of family-run Jim Barry Wines , which has been producing award-winning wines for over 60 years.

Famed for The Armagh shiraz, a succulent red that retails for about $400 a bottle, and the more affordable Florita riesling ($60), this is Australian winemaking at its finest.

pouring red wine into a glass at Jim Barry Wines — Jim Barry Wines is Australian winemaking at its finest. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

Standard visits to the chic cellar door cost $20 per person and must be booked in advance, while more premium tastings and wine experiences are on offer for those looking to experience the full range of Jim Barry’s finest.

the front facade of Jim Barry Wines — Book a premium tasting experience at Jim Barry Wines. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 33 Craig Hill Road, Clare

3. Shut the Gate Wines

The friendly folks at Shut the Gate specialise in small-batch wines, producing a range of varieties including the classics – dry Clare rieslings, pinot gris, chardonnay, shiraz, grenache, cabernet – as well as funkier drops such as fiano, sangiovese, barbera, negroamaro and tempranillo.

a woman pouring wine into a glass inside the cellar door of Shut the Gate Wines — Shut the Gate offers generous free tastings. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Located between Clare and Sevenhill, Shut the Gate offers generous free tastings and wine by the glass, as well as self-selected grazing platters from the charming providore on site.

people wine tasting in the outdoor garden area of Shut the Gate Wines — Nab a table outside. (Image: Tourism Australia/ South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 8453 Main N Rd, Clare

4. Mr. Mick Cellar Door

The gorgeous, vine-covered facade of Mr. Mick Cellar Door creates the perfect backdrop for a delightful afternoon at one of the best wineries in Clare Valley. Mr. Mick is owned by Tim Adams and named after the late K.H. (Mr. Mick) Knappstein, the legendary Aussie winemaker who was Adams’ friend and mentor.

the exterior of Mr. Mick Cellar Door — Mr. Mick Cellar Door is the perfect backdrop for a delightful afternoon. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

The site holds a special significance, having been in the Knappstein family from 1894 until the mid-70s. Tim Adams and his wife Pam Goldsack then purchased it in 2010 and set up Mr. Mick to reinvigorate the beautiful property and honour the legacy of their friend. The perfect place to stop for lunch.

a selection of wine presented in a row for tasting at Mr. Mick Cellar Door — Enjoy a wine-tasting at Mr. Mick Cellar Door. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 7 Dominic Street, Clare

5. Sevenhill Cellars

When it comes to choosing Clare Valley wineries, Sevenhill Cellars is a must.

This historic property was the first winery in Clare Valley, dating back to the mid-19th century when a group of Jesuit priests who had recently emigrated to Australia purchased the land and began to establish their Mission.

an aerial view of Sevenhill Cellars at sunrise — Sevenhill Cellars was the first winery in Clare Valley. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone)

Grapevines were planted in 1851 and five years later the first batches of Sacramental wine were produced. Today, you can visit the beautiful St Aloysius church and spooky crypt, explore the lush gardens, and taste the sweet Sacramental Wine, as well as more modern varietals. Wine tastings are $10–$20 per person.

the St Aloysius church and lush gardens at Sevenhill Cellars — Sevenhill Cellars is a must-visit. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone)

Address: 111C College Rd, Sevenhill

6. Jeanneret Wines

A visit to Jeanneret Wines can be encapsulated by the motto of the brand itself: ‘naturally perfect’. The family of winemakers, who have been producing tasty drops since 1992, pay homage to their ancestor – the renowned modernist architect and artist, Le Corbusier (Charles Jeanneret) – who popularised ‘the Golden Ratio’ back in the 1920s.

Enjoying a crisp glass of wine at their stunning cellar door is about as close to natural perfection as you can get!

friends sitting outside while enjoying drinks at Jeanneret Wines — Relax in the outdoor garden with a wine in hand. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 22 Jeanneret Rd, Sevenhill

7. Pikes Wines

If you’re looking for good food and good wine, look no further. Known as one of the best Clare Valley restaurants, the hatted Slate Restaurant at Pikes is open for lunch from Thursday to Sunday, and dinner on Saturday nights. The five-course shared menu is $82 per person, with $30 per person extra for a wine pairing.

a look inside Slate Restaurant at Pikes Wines — Slate Restaurant at Pikes is one of the best Clare Valley restaurants. (Image: Pikes Wines)

If you miss out on a table, visit the cellar door for a seated wine tasting seven days a week (booking essential) and try their famous ‘traditionale’ riesling – it’s truly world-class.

food and wine on the dinner table at Pikes Wines — Try Pikes Wines’ famous ‘traditionale’ riesling. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 233 Polish Hill Road, Sevenhill

8. Skillogalee Wines

The gorgeous Skillogalee is one the best Clare Valley wineries to while away an afternoon in the sunshine. The cellar door backs onto a decadent garden, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding hills and vineyards alongside your tasting.

the grape vines at Skillogalee Wines — While away an afternoon in the sun at Skillogalee Wines. (Image: John Montesi)

Skillogalee also offers a gourmet lunch menu featuring local produce and, naturally, a wine pairing for each dish. Walk-ins are welcome, but we recommend booking ahead as availability is limited.

the surrounding vineyard at Skillogalee Wines — Soak up spectacular views of the surrounding hills and vineyards at Skillogalee Wines. (Image: John Montesi)

Address: 23 Trevarrick Rd, Sevenhill

9. Reilly’s Wines

The heritage-listed Reilly’s Cellar Door and Restaurant in Mintaro is a fab spot to stop if you’re heading to the historic town of Mintaro.

Reilly’s has a great selection of Clare Valley wines, including sparkling, red, white and fortified, as well as a selection of morning teas.

old people dining outside Reilly’s Wines — Reilly’s has a great selection of Clare Valley wines. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: Cnr Hill St & Leasingham Rd, Mintaro

10. clos Clare

It might not be the south of France, but this boutique winery in a beautiful old homestead comes pretty close.

biking around clos Clare — clos Clare resembles a French-style homestead. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

clos Clare is the newest venture from the Barry family, owned and run by third-generation winemakers Tom and Sam Barry (grandsons of pioneering winemaker Jim Barry). The cellar door is open on weekends for sit-down tastings!

friends drinking wine by the balcony at Jim Barry Wines — clos Clare is the newest venture from the Barry family. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 45 Old Road, Watervale

11. O’Leary Walker Wines

Slick O’Leary Walker offers a range of tasting options at their scenic cellar door in Leasingham, including a wine and chocolate pairing that’s outrageously good.

a woman enjoying her wine-tasting meals at O’Leary Walker Wines — Sip on the finest wine at O’Leary Walker Wines.

Address: 7093 Horrocks Highway, Leasingham, Clare

12. Kilikanoon Wines

A picnic on the grass at pretty Kilikanoon is a must if you’ve got a weekend or more visiting Clare Valley wineries.

two people exploring Kilikanoon Wines — Kilikanoon Wines is surrounded by verdant greenery. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission / Adam Bruzzone)

Choose six out of 20 wines when you select their classic wine tasting ($20 per person) or opt for the 60–90 minute ‘Revelation Experience’, where you get to taste Kilikanoon’s most outstanding varietals and learn about what makes this region so distinct ($100 per person).

picnic on the grass at Kilikanoon Wines — Taste Kilikanoon’s most outstanding varietals. (Image: Kilikanoon Wines)

Address: 6962 Horrocks Highway (Main North Road) Leasingham

13. Claymore Wines

The football-loving folks at Claymore Wines know the secret to good wine is having a little fun. With wines named after iconic songs such as Bittersweet Symphony (cabernet sauvignon) and Dark Side of the Moon (shiraz), you’ll enjoy the tasting experience as much as the delicious drops they offer.

Everyone’s welcome at Claymore, including kiddos and four-legged friends, and bookings are only required for groups of eight or more.

the wine tasting room inside the cellar door of Claymore Wines — Step into Claymore Wines’ cellar door tasting room. (Image: Jonathan van der Knaap)

Address: 7145 Horrocks Highway, Leasingham

14. Taylors Wines

Taylors Wines is one of Australia’s largest wine producers, and its luxe cellar door and winery in Clare Valley is certainly one of the best.

The cellar door offers a wide range of wine flights and tasting experiences (between $5 and $40 per person), as well as wine by the glass and delicious grazing platters, seven days a week.

a food platter with two glasses of wine at Taylors Wines — Taylors Wines is one of Australia’s largest wine producers. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 89A Winery Rd, Auburn SA 5451

15. Grosset Wines

We’re big fans of the understated Grosset Wines , where small batches of beautiful single-vineyard wines are produced.

Grosset has four high-country vineyards in the Clare Valley at Polish Hill, Rockwood, Spring Vale and Gaia, all of which offer a cooler climate to produce the elegant, fresh and beautifully balanced wines for which they have become known. Our pick is the immensely drinkable Springvale riesling ($55), but you really can’t go wrong with a bottle of Grosset.

a man strolling along the vineyard at Grosset Wines — With a cooler climate, Grosset produces elegant, fresh and beautifully balanced wines.

Address: Cnr. Archer Street and Stanley Street, Auburn

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

15 of the must-visit Clare Valley wineries

We’ve scoped out the place and pulled together the 15 best Clare Valley wineries and cellar doors for you to explore.

1. Tim Adams Wines

2. Jim Barry Wines

3. Shut the Gate Wines

4. Mr. Mick Cellar Door

5. Sevenhill Cellars

6. Jeanneret Wines

7. Pikes Wines

8. Skillogalee Wines

9. Reilly’s Wines

10. clos Clare

11. O’Leary Walker Wines

12. Kilikanoon Wines

13. Claymore Wines

14. Taylors Wines

15. Grosset Wines

8 of the best places to stay in the Clare Valley

10 Clare Valley restaurants to book

The ultimate guide to the Clare Valley Riesling Trail

7 of the best things to do in the Clare Valley

Your guide to a summer staycation in Sydney

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

2. The Place

3. Local gelato

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

2. Circular Quay

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

4. Theatre Royal