Get into Clare Valley wines with a new podcast on the people making them

South Australia’s Clare Valley wine region is famous for its bike trail along the old railway line, riesling and some of the most famous names in Australian viticulture, including of two of Australia’s 10 oldest family-owned, multi-generational wine labels, Taylors and Jim Barry.

A new generation, including the Hughes family, which created Riesling Freak, are also making waves globally, and the stories behind those making it happen are revealed in the podcast series Grape Growers Untold.

Season 2, hosted by former ABC journalist and Clare Valley local, Annabelle Homer, kicks off on February 3, and explores the deep connection between generations of grape growers and the land that sustains them.

“This region’s strength lies not only in its elegant wines, but in the people whose lives are woven through every vineyard row,” Homer said.

“Season 2 reveals how tradition and progress coexist here – a place where craftsmanship, community and care for the land are inseparable.”

The five episodes explore the evolution of Clare Valley riesling and the people behind it. 

They are:

• The Mitchells, whose resilience laid the foundations for Kilikanoon Wines
• The Steeles, a father-and-son duo driving innovation from Penwortham to Polish Hill
• The Eatons, who have farmed the same Leasingham soils for more than a century
• The Castines, leaders in regenerative farming and sustainable viticulture
• The Hughes family, whose Riesling Freak label has helped elevate Clare Valley’s signature variety internationally

Clare Valley Wine Growers Association CEO Cherry Stowman said the podcast celebrates the craftsmanship and connection that underpins the region’s success.

“These stories are living proof that the future of Clare Valley is built on integrity, collaboration and care for the land,” she said.

“They remind us that excellence grows from both heritage and heart, particularly as the region navigates generational change and long-term sustainability.”

Season 2 of Grape Growers Untold is available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and at clarevalleywine.com.au.

Meanwhile, the annual Clare Valley Gourmet Festival returns May 15-18, offering four days of food, wine and regional experiences across more than 45 events.

The Festival includes long lunches, tastings, live music and hosted experiences across the region. Details at clarevalleygourmet.com.au