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

Makers, bakers, artists, chefs, crafters – Ballarat and its surrounds are overflowing with creative spirits. All dedicated to keeping traditional skills alive for a city that is humming with artful energy.

Modern makers: a new generation of artists and artisans

“Keeping craft alive is a noble cause,” says Jess Cameron-Wootten, a charming and passionate master leathercrafter and cordwainer, who handmakes traditional leather boots and shoes in Ballarat’s old Gun Cotton Goods Store.

Ballarat was recognised in 2019 as a UNESCO Creative City of Craft and Folk Art, and today it’s a place where craft traditions converge with contemporary needs. Nothing quite captures this convergence as a visit to Wootten , the workshop and store of Jess Cameron-Wootten and his partner Krystina Menegazzo.

heritage buildings in Ballarat — Ballarat’s streets are lined with heritage buildings. (Image: Matt Dunne)

Jess’s father was an artisan bootmaker, or cordwainer. Now Jess and Krys and their small team of artisans continue the tradition, but with a modern spin. The company’s boots and shoes, made completely from scratch, are renowned for their quality and longevity. Wootten also craft shoes, bags, belts, leather aprons, wallets and more.

Cosy beanies, gloves, alpaca socks, “unbreakable” shoelaces and various other goods – many from local craftspeople and small-scale makers – fill the shop’s shelves. “We’re always happy to support a mate,” says Jess. “People love to see the workshop and where things are made. Our clients care about quality and sustainability,” Krys comments. The company slogan ‘Made for generations’ says it all.

Ruby Pilven’s ceramics at Ross Creek Gallery. (Image: Tara Moore)

For Ruby Pilven, craft is also in the DNA – both her parents were potters and with her latest porcelain ceramics, Ruby’s young daughter has been helping add colour to the glazes. “I grew up watching my parents in the workshop – I’ve always been doing ceramics,” she says, although her Visual Arts degree was in printmaking. That printmaking training comes through particularly in the rich layering of pattern. Her audacious colour, unexpected shapes and sudden pops of 12-carat gold are contemporary, quirky – and joyful.

You can see Ruby’s handcrafted ceramics, and work by other local and regional artists, at Ross Creek Gallery , a light-filled space surrounded by serene bushland, across from the mudbrick house her parents built in the 1980s. A 10-minute drive from Ballarat, it’s a tangible link to the region’s well-established craft traditions.

How Ballarat is preserving the past

artisans making crafts at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, Ballarat — The Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades holds workshops to preserve crafts and skills.

While tradition is ongoing, there’s a danger that many of these specific type of skills and knowledge are fading as an older generation passes on. Step forward the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades .

The seven purpose-built studios occupy a fabulous modern building adjacent to Sovereign Hill, with state-of-the-art facilities, enormous windows and landscape views across to Warrenheip and Wadawurrung Country.

artisanal works at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, Ballarat — Check out artisanal works at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades.

Practising artisans run hands-on workshops. Fancy making your own medieval armour? Or trying your hand at blacksmithing, spinning wool, plaiting leather, weaving cane or craft a knife? Book a class and learn how. “It’s about creating awareness and also sharing knowledge and skills before they are lost,” explains Deborah Klein, the centre manager.

A city steeped in food and flavours

Chef José Fernandez preparing American streetfood at Pancho — Chef José Fernandez creates vibrant South American street food at Pancho. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

One skill that hasn’t been lost is that of cooking. Ballarat’s burgeoning gastronomy scene runs the gamut from an artisan bakery (the atmospheric 1816 Bakehouse) to cool coffee shops, speakeasy cocktail bars and distilleries to fine-dining venues. But I’m still surprised to find Pancho , José Fernandez’s South American street food restaurant, serving fried cheese tequeños, fiery fish tacos, Argentinian grilled chicken.

The room is as lively as the food – a whirl of colour filled with gifted and thrifted paintings, photos, tchotchkes (trinkets), plants. There’s a Mexican abuela aesthetic going on here. Even before the music and mezcal kick in, it’s fun. Heads up on the drinks menu – an authentic selection of mezcal, tequila, South American wines and Mexican cerveza.

a cocktail at Itinerant Spirits, Ballarat — Enjoy a cocktail at Itinerant Spirits. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

The spirit is willing, so after lunch we head towards the gold rush-era Ballarat train station and across the line to the old 1860s Goods Shed for Itinerant Spirits . At one end, a massive German copper still looms behind a wall of glass. The fit-out embraces deep olive-green tones, original bluestone walls, steamer trunks as coffee tables, heritage timber floors, oversized lamp shades and cognac-hued modernist leather seating.

the Itinerant Spirits Distillery & Cocktail Bar, Ballarat — The distillery operates from an old goods shed. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

Gallivanter Gin, Vansetter Vodka and Wayfarer Whiskey – the key spirits distilled – star at the bar. The spirits are crafted using grains from the Wimmera Mallee region, and native botanicals foraged in the Grampians. Seasonal cocktails are inspired by local people and places (I loved The Headland, inspired by Sovereign Hill and flavoured with old-fashioned raspberry drops). Sample the spirits, and join a cocktail masterclass or a distillery tour. It’s a seductive setting – you’ll likely find yourself ordering a charcuterie platter or pizza as the evening progresses.

The Ballarat stay combining history and luxury

one of the rooms at Hotel Vera, Ballarat — The rooms at Hotel Vera have a contemporary style. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

New lives for old buildings keeps history alive. Vera, Ballarat’s boutique five-star hotel, has taken it to the next level: it’s a palimpsest, a subtle layering of early 1900s and 1930s Art Deco architecture with a sleek new wing. There are seven spacious suites, each a dramatically different colour, with designer chairs, blissful bathrooms. High-end pottery and hand-picked artworks imbue the spaces with personality.

Vera’s intimate, award-winning restaurant, Babae, is subtly theatrical with sheer drapes and gallery lighting, its bespoke timber furniture and brass-edged marble bench setting the stage for food with a sharp regional focus. “We have goat’s cheese from a local supplier, handmade granola from local Vegas & Rose, truffles from nearby Black Cat Truffles, fresh food from our garden, and regional wines,” says joint owner David Cook-Doulton.

Celebrating the local makers, bakers, growers and producers, and the master chefs who work their magic is all part of the rich tapestry that links Ballarat’s history to its vibrant present.

A traveller’s checklist

Getting there

It’s 90 minutes from Melbourne, either on the Western Freeway, or hop on a V/Line train from Southern Cross Station.

Staying there

Hotel Vera is a centrally located Art Deco boutique hotel. Consider Hotel Provincial , which feels like a sleek country house, but with its own restaurant, Lola.

a contemporary room at Hotel Provincial, Ballarat — Hotel Provincial has country house vibes.

Eating there

dining at Mr Jones, Ballarat — The table is set at Mr Jones. (Image: Tony Evans/ Visit Victoria)

Culinary whiz Damien Jones helms Chef’s Hat winner Mr Jones Dining with quiet assurance. His modern Asian food is deceptively simple with deep, intense flavours. Low-key, laid-back ambience, lovely staff, thoughtful wine list.

Cocktails are definitely a thing in Ballarat. Reynard (fox in French) is foxy indeed, a clubby space with top-notch cocktails and small bites. Grainery Lane is extravagantly OTT with its massive 1880s bar, myriad chandeliers, brass gin still, Asian-inspired food and lavish cocktails.

dining at Grainery Lane, Ballarat — Dining at Grainery Lane.

Playing there

a laneway filled with artworks in Ballarat — An artful laneway in the city. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

Check out local design legend Travis Price’s wall murals in Hop Lane with its colourful canopy of brollies, or in Main Street. The Art Gallery of Ballarat’s off-site Backspace Gallery showcases early-career artists in a stylish, contemporary space. First Nations-owned and run Perridak Arts connects people to place, bringing together art and crafts in this gallery/shop.

a woman admiring artworks at Perridak Arts Gallery — Perridak Arts is a First Nations-run gallery. (Image: Tony Evans)

The wineries of the Pyrenees are close at hand with their welcoming cellar doors and robust reds. Join a behind-the-scenes tour at the Centre for Gold Rush Collections .

Don’t forget the giant bluestone Kryal Castle , ‘the land of adventure’, for a little medieval magic, and not just for the kids: get ready for Highland-style feasting, jousting, even overnight stays.

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

Meet the makers shaping Ballarat’s new era of creativity

Makers, bakers, artists, chefs, crafters – Ballarat and its surrounds are overflowing with creative spirits. All dedicated to keeping traditional skills alive for a city that is humming with artful energy.

Modern makers: a new generation of artists and artisans

How Ballarat is preserving the past

A city steeped in food and flavours

The Ballarat stay combining history and luxury

A traveller’s checklist

Getting there

Staying there

Eating there

Playing there