The Clare Valley has a rich heritage originating from the English, Irish and Polish settlers who arrived in the 1840s. Viticulturally, Clare is classified as moderately warm to cool, similar to the Alsace, Burgundy and Rheingau regions in Europe.

The Valley has been described as 'the most unblemished wine region in Australia'. It catches the cool, moist westerlies that blow in from Spencer Gulf. The warm ripening period causes a concentration of grape flavor resulting in the distinctive Riesling and red wine styles produced.

Start the day along the scenic route as we head towards the Clare Valley, in the direction of the Flinders Ranges. Your first introduction to the Valley is the quaint little town of Auburn where you will stop for morning tea at the elegant Tatehams. Here you will taste the product of the small winemakers of the Clare Valley. If it is the right time of year, you can also visit the exemplary Grosset's winery and then the stylish wines from Mount Horrocks nearby.

Onto a visit at the Sevenhills Cellars, which is run by the Jesuit brothers. Here you can visit the historic church and explore the heritage of the first vineyard in the region. Meet Brother May, the winemaker and see the original Cellars. Leave the Sevenhills Cellars and travel up to the main historical town of Clare where you will visit the innovative Knappstein winery.

Then travel through Penwortham and along to the scenic route to Mitchell's winery for a tour and a tasting of their fine wines. Lunch will be at the charming Skillogalee restaurant/winery where a gourmet lunch will be served, accompanied by the best of local wines. After lunch if time permits, taste the wines and explore the vineyards at Waninga and Kilakanoon wines.

The trip back will take you through the old slate mining town of Mintaro. If time permits, have a drink at the old Magpie and Stump or a coffee at the stately Martindale Hall before returning to Adelaide.