The Clay Family Story

Old Vines – A dream come true

It had been something that respected winemaking couple, Adam and Marie Clay had spoken and dreamt about many times. Since their early years of studying Oenology at the University of Adelaide they were driven to make their own wine, but felt it was out of reach.

Their passion for wine has seen them work in the industry for a combined 40 plus years, and travel through many of the great wine regions of the world, sharing many wonderful bottles together. They have also spent many years judging at wine shows, educating their palates and gaining exposure to Australia’s finest wine producers.

In 2018 Adam was delighted when he discovered there was an opportunity to purchase the 20 acres that are now Arila Gardens and include the 1870’s ironstone cottage his family calls home. They knew it was an incredibly brave move to take this step, yet how could they not when these vines and neighbouring properties on Moppa Road were synonymous with the finest quality grapes in the Barossa.

A partnership of the Clay family was formed between Adam his wife Marie and his parents David and Cheryl. Dave has many years’ experience in horticulture, an interest passed on from his father who was a market gardener and enjoys utilising these skills and knowledge in the vineyard. Cheryl has a long history working at senior levels of government. Her experience has taken her overseas and interstate for much of the last decade and being a part of Arila Gardens has provided an opportunity to use her business acumen in the family wine business.

Together the Clay family look forward to sharing their dreams and aspirations of Arila Gardens with you.