When May hits, the weather starts to cool, the skies get darker and that’s when we’ll be making a trip to the Clare Valley in hopes of curing those pre-winter blues. While plenty of cellar doors are built for long summer lunches, Taylors Wines might be at its best when the temperature drops.
The family-run Auburn winery has long been a Clare Valley favourite and in the cooler months it takes on a different kind of charm. This is when the fire is lit and the reds come out, warming us from within.
“Over winter we have our indoor fire going and a couch area set up outside with an open fire,” says Cellar Door Experience Manager Gemma Roberts.
“In winter, it naturally becomes a destination for romantic getaways, people come to unwind, sit by the fire and enjoy great wine together.”
A popular drop, and one of their most coveted award goes to the 2023 Jaraman Shiraz for winning ‘Shiraz of the Year’ at the prestigious London Wine Competition.
Luckily, Taylors Wines is proof that a seriously good bottle doesn’t always need to come with a special-occasion price tag. A popular drop is their $22 bottle of Estate Label Merlot, which has been
winning gold in shows all around world.
Another two award winning drops refer to their under $40 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, the former brings ripe red fruit and dark chocolate notes while the later rich plum compote and blackberry flavours.
“We recommend our premium estate grown St Andrews Shiraz’s and Cabernets when the weather gets cool,” Gemma said.
Although it’s a more premium pour, the St Andrews range, in particular, continues to rack up awards on the world stage, reinforcing Taylors’ reputation for producing high-quality wines.
The St Andrews 2021 Shiraz showcases rich fruit notes of black cherry, plum and ripe berries, layered with American oak influence while the cabernet has flavours of blackcurrant, mint and dark chocolate, that’ll have you thinking about it long after the first sip.
A little birdy also told us that if you’re a member, you’ll receive exclusive discounts and access to some pretty amazing deals on these delicious drops.
Gemma recommends pairing one of their award winning wines with a grazing board, that’s anything but basic. Think about a loaded plate of hot smoky chorizo, haloumi, warm bread, dips, fresh fruits and crackers, the kind of spread that is probably for two, but we’ll order one each.
Beyond the wine and cheese, the cellar door itself has become a destination recognised on the global stage in 2025 for its design. The space blends natural materials, warm tones and floor-to-ceiling views of the surrounding vineyards, with an open space that can close up to keep the venue warm.
Taylors Wine is making a pretty strong case to head out for a Clare Valley getaway or a winter day trip but we never need an excuse to sit by the fire with a glass of award-winning red.
Taylors Wines
Where: Clare Valley, 89A Winery Rd, Auburn
When: 10am – 4pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am – 5pm Thursday to Saturday.
For more info, click here.
