The Clare Valley may be one of Australia's smaller wine regions, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in character. Home to world-class Riesling, acclaimed Shiraz and some of the country's most welcoming cellar doors, it's a destination that rewards exploration.
One of the best things about a Clare Valley wine tour is the diversity of experiences on offer. From historic wineries and intimate boutique tastings to long lunches overlooking vineyards, no two cellar doors are quite the same.
If you're planning a visit, here are seven Clare Valley cellar doors worth adding to your itinerary.
Kilikanoon
No visit to the Clare Valley would be complete without experiencing Kilikanoon!
Known for award-winning Riesling, Shiraz, Grenache and Mediterranean varieties, Kilikanoon has earned a reputation as one of the region's leading wineries. The cellar door offers visitors the opportunity to explore wines that range from approachable everyday favourites through to premium single-vineyard and cellar-worthy releases.
Whether you are a Riesling lovers, partial to a hearty Shiraz or keen to discover how Clare Valley Grenache tastes, Kilikanoon provides the chance to compare multiple expressions of all these varieties and more.
Most importantly, the experience reflects what makes the Clare Valley so special - warm hospitality, great wine and a genuine connection to place.
Open Daily
Kilikanoon is open 7 days a week from 11am to 5pm, making it an easy stop whether you're visiting for a weekend escape or simply exploring the region for the day.
Pikes Wines
Pikes has long been a favourite among Clare Valley visitors, combining exceptional wines with one of the region's most complete visitor experiences.
Known particularly for its Riesling, the winery also offers the added attraction of a neighbouring brewery, making it a popular stop for groups with mixed tastes. Combined with quality food and a relaxed atmosphere, it's an easy place to linger a little longer.
Sevenhill Cellars
Established by Jesuits in 1851, Sevenhill Cellars is the oldest winery in the Clare Valley and remains one of the region's most historically significant destinations.
Visitors can explore the heritage buildings, historic church and underground cellars while gaining an appreciation for the role Sevenhill played in shaping Clare Valley winemaking.
Skillogalee
Skillogalee is one of those wineries that regularly appears on visitors' "must visit" lists, and for good reason.
Its restaurant has built a reputation as one of the Clare Valley's finest dining experiences, showcasing regional produce in a beautiful vineyard setting. Combined with quality wines and picturesque views, it's a wonderful place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Mr. Mick
Mr. Mick offers a relaxed and approachable cellar door experience that pairs beautifully with its popular tapas-style lunch menu.
For visitors wanting to combine food and wine in one stop, it's a fantastic option and a great example of the Clare Valley's welcoming hospitality.
Taylors Wines
Located near Auburn, Taylors is one of the Clare Valley's most recognisable wine brands.
Its distinctive cellar door, designed in the style of a fortress, creates a memorable first impression. The broad range of wines and convenient location make it a popular addition to many Clare Valley itineraries.
Clos Clare
Open on weekends, Clos Clare offers a boutique and intimate cellar door experience.
Smaller in scale than some of its neighbours, it provides visitors with the opportunity to discover handcrafted wines in a relaxed setting. It's proof that some of the most memorable wine experiences can be found in the region's smaller cellar doors.
Planning Your Clare Valley Wine Tour
The beauty of the Clare Valley is that most cellar doors are located within a short drive of one another, allowing visitors to enjoy a diverse range of experiences without spending hours on the road.
To make the most of your visit:
- Allow time to enjoy each tasting rather than rushing between venues.
- Book ahead where possible, especially on weekends.
- Consider enjoying lunch at one of the region's winery restaurants.
- Explore different sub-regions including Watervale, Sevenhill, Auburn and Polish Hill River.
- Take advantage of the region's relaxed pace and welcoming hospitality.
Beyond the Cellar Door
While wine is undoubtedly the main attraction, the Clare Valley also offers scenic drives, cycling along the Riesling Trail, charming country towns and some of South Australia's best regional food experiences.
Many visitors arrive for a day and quickly realise they should have planned a weekend!
The Clare Valley remains one of Australia's most rewarding wine destinations. Its combination of outstanding wines, passionate producers and genuine hospitality creates an experience that keeps visitors coming back year after year.
Whether you're exploring historic wineries, discovering boutique producers or enjoying a long lunch among the vines, there is no shortage of memorable cellar door experiences to enjoy.
And if your travels bring you to Kilikanoon, we'd be delighted to welcome you for a tasting and share a glass of Clare Valley wine with you.
