Clare Valley

Situated in the northern Mt Lofty Ranges, the Clare Valley was settled in the late 1830s, with the first vineyards planted and wines produced in the early 1840s. The region is now home to around 50 wineries, with the region producing less than 2% of the Australian grape crush.

The picturesque Clare Valley sits 400-500 metres above sea level. Soils of the region range from classic terra rossa red topsoil over limestone in the Watervale district, to the broken slate of Polish Hill River. Typically the soils across the valley are free-draining yet hold enough water for vines to only require the smallest quantities of supplementary irrigation during the summer months. The region's best producing vineyards are located at the higher altitude sites or on west-facing slopes.

The region experiences a warm to hot summers; however cool afternoon breezes help to slow down the fruit ripening process. This assists the Clare Valley to produce premium quality fruit and wine. The Clare Valley produces most of Australia's finest Riesling and is also renowned for the production of premium quality Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.

The Clare Valley wine industry hosts the famous two-day Clare Valley Gourmet Weekend which showcases the treasures of the region; a fabulous food and wine festival, complemented by fantastic music.

Contact Details

Clare Region Winegrape Growers Association
PO Box 226
CLARE SA 5453

Email: claregrowers@gmail.com