CLARE VALLEY

Largely known for the hero variety riesling and more recently promoting themselves as worthy makers of shiraz and cabernet, a growing number of Clare Valley producers are focused on alternate varieties and styles that benefit from the region’s diurnal temperatures, creating wines with higher acid and fresh, complex flavour. Expect to see more interesting drops like gewürztraminer, fiano, vermentino, sangiovese and montepulciano coming out of Clare in the future. But it’s not just the wines that will entice punters to keep coming back to this quintessentially Australian bushland region. New tasting experiences at cellar doors, and enhanced food, accommodation and tourism offerings also encourage visitors to stay longer, take advantage of the diverse vistas of the Valley, inspiring them to stop, relax and breathe it in.  Paul Wood

Image of Shut the Gate.

SHUT THE GATE

Star Cellar Door & BEST LARGE CELLAR DOOR

(08) 8843 4114
shutthegate.withwine.com

Stepping into the whimsical space created by owners Rasa Fabian and Richard Woods at the gateway to the Clare township shows that their taste in design and decor is as intriguing as their range of delicious drops. These include a typical range of Valley favourites as well as some lesser-known varieties, all clearly created with drinkability in mind. Take a seat on opulent vintage furniture to work your way through the range of wines served by engaging staff or make the most of the surrounding gardens by putting together a picnic hamper from the adjacent gourmet providore that is stacked to the brim with a selection of produce that includes locally made supplies and some of the most delectable brands from all corners of the globe. And just down the road in Auburn, they’ve also opened a boutique cellar door bar for a spin-off brand called Mr Nobody. This tasty addition showcases fortifieds made in micro batches that are poured into tiny vintage glassware in an experience that completes the Shut the Gate story.

TOP DROP: 2018 Shut the Gate For Freedom Negroamaro, A$35

MR NOBODY
BEST SMALL CELLAR DOOR

0482 171 441 instagram.com/mr_nobody_wines/ 

SLATE RESTAURANT AT PIKES
CELLAR DOOR WITH BEST FOOD

(08) 8843 4370
pikeswines.com.au/slate

SPRING GULLY WINE JOURNEY
BEST TASTING EXPERIENCE
With Matriarch and Rogue, Eldredge and Sussex Squire

eldredge.com.au/spring-gully-wine-journey

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