Sussex Squire Wines

Sussex Squire Wines is a small, family-owned cellar door on Spring Gully Road in Gillentown, right in the heart of the Clare Valley, and it is genuinely dog-friendly rather than just tolerant of them. The winery keeps its own dogs on site, Bella and Milo, so a well-mannered visitor on lead fits right in.

Dog access and setup. Dogs are welcome in the tasting room and around the outdoor areas, which suit the rustic, vineyard-view setting well. Keep dogs on a leash, since the resident winery dogs are often about and not every guest wants an unexpected greeting. Bring your own water bowl. The owners are dog-friendly and will often help out, but a small family operation cannot always guarantee spare water and treats on hand.

Known for. Bold, handcrafted single-vineyard reds, particularly Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Mataro and Sangiovese, poured through personal tastings usually hosted by the owners or winemaker themselves. It is a small-batch operation with a strong sustainability and organic focus.

Getting there and parking. The cellar door sits at 295 Spring Gully Road, Gillentown SA 5453, with free on-site parking and a wheelchair-accessible entrance. Groups of four or more should book ahead, especially on weekends.

Nearby with the dogs. Spring Gully Road is quiet and scenic for a walk before or after tasting. Sevenhill Cellars, about five to ten minutes away, has large dog-friendly grounds. Spring Gully Conservation Park is close too, though leash rules in SA conservation parks are strict, so check current signage before heading in.

When to go. Weekday mornings are quietest for a relaxed tasting with a dog in tow. Weekends fill up, so book ahead if you are bringing a group. Good for calm, leash-trained dogs who are happy to settle while you taste.

Sources

• Sussex Squire Wines - Clare Valley - Single Vineyard Red · sussexsquire.com.au
• Cellar Door - Sussex Squire Wines - Clare Valley · sussexsquire.com.au
• Sussex Squire Wines Clare Valley · clarevalleywine.com.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.