Clare Valley

A picturesque wine region north of Adelaide renowned for Riesling production and historic charm with family-owned vineyards. The valley features heritage villages, scenic drives, and a more intimate wine-tasting experience than larger regions.

Things to do

• Riesling Trail Cycle — Pedal the iconic 28 km trail connecting cellar doors through vineyard-lined paths, stopping at wineries and cafes along the way.
• Sevenhill Cellars Tasting — Visit this historic 1851 Jesuit winery to taste estate Rieslings and learn about the region's Catholic heritage in the underground cellars.
• Mintaro Village Heritage Walk — Stroll through this charming slate-built village to admire 19th-century stone cottages and historic architecture preserved from the slate-mining era.
• Polish Hill River Winery Tour — Explore boutique family-run vineyards in this sub-region known for premium Rieslings and intimate cellar-door experiences.
• Auburn's Historic Pubs Crawl — Visit this heritage village's well-preserved Victorian-era pubs and colonial buildings, many dating back to the 1850s gold rush.
• Clare Valley Showgrounds Market — Browse local produce, crafts, and artisan goods at seasonal markets showcasing regional producers and farmers.

Food to try

• Clare Valley Riesling Pairing Menu — Savor locally-sourced seasonal dishes specifically paired with Clare Valley Rieslings at cellar-door restaurants.
• Slate Belt Lamb — Taste slow-roasted lamb raised on the region's slate-rich pastures, a signature local protein featured at many vineyard restaurants.
• Stone-baked Sourdough from Auburn Bakery — Sample artisan bread baked fresh daily using heritage techniques at this village institution dating back generations.
• Cheese Platters with Local Produce — Experience curated boards featuring South Australian cheeses, cured meats, and preserves paired with Riesling at cellar doors.
• Linseed Oil and Stone Fruits — Try locally-pressed linseed oil drizzled over fresh apricots and peaches from Clare Valley orchards, a simple regional specialty.

Local customs & good to know

• Cellar Door Etiquette — Most wineries expect advance booking or casual drop-ins; tastings are often complimentary or $5–$10 per person with wine purchases encouraged.
• Riesling Pride — Clare Valley is Australia's premier Riesling region; locals are passionate about their dry and off-dry styles, so ask knowledgeable staff about terroir differences.
• Quiet, Unhurried Pace — This region values intimate, personal experiences over crowds—plan to spend time in conversation with winemakers and avoid peak tourist season for a more authentic visit.
• Religious Heritage Respect — Many historic sites and wineries have Catholic or Jesuit significance; dress respectfully when visiting heritage churches and cellars with spiritual connections.