Pikes
Star Cellar Door
(08) 8843 4370
pikeswines.com.au
Just a quick five-minute drive over the hill in between Sevenhill and Mintaro, you will find yourself staring at the beautiful stonework of Pikes cellar door. Built in the 1870s and overlooking the famous Polish River Valley, the gorgeous building and indeed, the wines within make Pikes cellar door a must-visit for those lucky enough to find themselves in the picturesque Clare Valley.
The cellar door is a well set-out, inviting space with great staff and an impressive line-up of wines to try. Platters and nibbles are available for those who need to refuel and the art gallery is just the ticket for a little culture.
The range of wines at Pikes is a beauty. Riesling, as you would expect, is fantastic and their flagship, The Merle, is quickly becoming a regional benchmark. The reds, too, are strong and there is a terrific range of alternative varieties that will win many fans. The added bonus here is a visit to Pikes Brewery for a few cleansing ales to rehydrate after a long day in one of Australia’s most scenic wine regions. DAVID BROOKES
OUTSTANDING WINE: 2016 Pikes the Plantation Grenache, A$24