Big things are happening at Skillogalee, and it’s started with the opening of the new Barrel House over the March long weekend. The Barrel House is a place where outstanding wine, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking Clare Valley views come together. Surrounded by rolling hills, lush vineyards, and native bushland, the Barrel House is a fresh new space to soak up the Skilly experience while their historic cottage gets a well-earned restoration.
“After a fantastic launch event, we’re so delighted that our new Barrel House is now open daily and welcoming back guests for long lunches and wine tastings,” said Skillogalee Estate’s owner Simon Clausen.
“Our shared menu changes weekly and draws on the very best of local and seasonal produce, whether that’s from our kitchen garden, aromatic figs grown by our neighbour, or freshly caught seafood from the Eyre Peninsula.”
Skillogalee has always been about great wine, memorable food, and that signature warm hospitality. That hasn’t changed one bit. While the much-loved cellar door and restaurant get a refresh with a current ongoing renovation, the Barrel House steps up as a stylish yet relaxed spot that blends tradition with a modern twist.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the Barrel House fits seamlessly into its surroundings. Clad in sleek steel with Blackbutt timber accents, it’s got that perfect mix of rustic and contemporary style. Solar power, water harvesting, and native landscaping keep things eco-friendly, while the high ceilings and open-plan space lead onto a verandah with knockout views of the estate dam, vineyards, and the iconic Skilly hills.
“Sitting in the Barrel House, surrounded by wine barrels and looking out over the vineyards, is a very special way to experience the Clare Valley and we’re so happy to be sharing that with visitors to our spectacular region while careful restoration of our treasured 1850s cottage is underway.”
It’s more than just a gorgeous place to relax, it’s a working space dedicated to barrel-aging premium red and fortified wines. Guests can breathe in the rich, heady aromas of aging wine while getting a behind-the-scenes look at the craft of small-batch winemaking.
Got a special occasion coming up? While the cottage is under restoration, the Barrel House is hosting private celebrations, intimate dinners, dreamy vineyard weddings, and bespoke corporate events. From 2026, the space will transition into a dedicated event venue, perfect for creating unforgettable memories.
“The whole Skilly team is excited about this brilliant new chapter for our family-owned estate, and looking forward to the many memorable lunches, celebrations and events which the Barrel House will host into the future,” added Simon.
Foodies, you’re in for a treat. The Barrel House Lunch runs daily from 11:30am to 3pm, with a weekly changing three-course menu curated by Executive Chef Dan Moss. Expect nostalgic regional classics with a fresh, creative twist, all made with the best local and estate-grown produce. It’s the kind of meal that’s best enjoyed slowly, with good company and a glass of something special in hand.
And if you’re here for the wine, you won’t be disappointed. From 10am to 4pm daily, the Portfolio Wine Tasting onsite will take you on a guided tour through nine exceptional wines. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting your journey, this tasting is a must-do.
With the stunning new Barrel House, Skillogalee is stepping into an exciting new era while staying true to everything that makes it special.
Bookings are recommended, so get in quick and be part of this new chapter at one of the Clare Valley’s most iconic wineries.
WHERE: Skillogalee, 23 Trevarrick Rd Sevenhill
MORE INFO + BOOKINGS: https://www.skillogalee.com.au
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