Sevenhill was the first winery in the Clare Valley, established in 1851, when the Jesuits who settled in the area planted vines to produce sacramental wine. From these modest beginnings, the Jesuits' focus on wine has remained. As the only remaining Jesuit-owned winery in Australia, residing Jesuits are actively in Sevenhill's ongoing development in partnership with lay staff who share the ethos of building the Jesuit Mission to support works of charity and compassion throughout Australia.
Sevenhill Wines
Sevenhill Cellars has been making altar wine since its establishment in 1851 and today it constitutes about 25 per cent of their output. Christian denominations Australia wide use Sevenhill altar wine in their services and it has found an international market with religious groups in East Timor, Guam, India, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Vietnam and Singapore. Unlike table wine, altar wine is made in a similar way to Apera (sherry) and comes in three styles. The most common is Sweet Red, symbolising the blood of Christ, a blend of Grenache and Pedro Ximenez. Then there’s Sweet White made from White Frontignac, which appeals to those who want to avoid stains on their altar linen, and Dry White made from Pedro Ximenez for the diabetics.
A Halliday awarded winery, Sevenhill wines include Shiraz, Grenache, Merlot, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Sevenhill Cellar Door
Sevenhill's award-winning cellar door is one of the finest in the Clare Valley region with walking tours to significant historical sites on the property such as St Aloysius Church, tasting experiences, visits into the underground cellar or picnics on the lawn.
Did you know...
St Aloysius’ Church at Sevenhill Cellars was completed in 1875 and still serves the Parish of Sevenhill. Mass is conducted at St Aloysius' each Saturday at 6pm and walking tours of the property including a visit to the church and its underground crypt are available to visitors.
- Will Shields, Chief Winemaker