2023 Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates for the 2023 Clare Valley SCA Gourmet Week

The flagship food and wine event for the state's Mid-North will again embrace its week-long format taking place from Friday 19 – Sunday 28 May 2023

The first weekend is the traditional festival weekend where various venues will come alive with music, food and wine. If you're here during the week, there'll be a focus on appreciation and education of the regions food and wine, with masterclasses, cooking schools, workshops and more on offer. The final weekend will see Clare Valley turn into 'Land of the Long Lunch' where you can choose from various long lunch events in your favourite restaurant or unique locations throughout the region.

What does SCA stand for

Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) are our official naming rights and media partner for the 2023 Gourmet Week.

When will the program be released?

The program was released in March, you can view it on our website!

When should I book my accommodation?

We recommend booking your accommodation as early as possible. If you’d like some knowledgeable help, call or email the team at the Clare Valley Wine, Food and Tourism Centre.

Email: ask@clarevalley.com.au

Call: 0888422131

Live Chat: https://m.me/theclarevalley

We've also got an article to help with inspiration on where you might like to stay, you can read it here.

Will there be buses running for the 2023 festival?

Yes, there will be shuttle buses to drive you around to different festival events on the first weekend only. Tickets available from the Clare Valley Wine, Food and Tourism Centre. Check our website for timetables & online tickets.

Do I need a Gourmet Glass?

Yes – your Gourmet Glass is your ‘ticket’ to all general admission events which will occur on the first weekend. Everyone will need to have their own Gourmet Glass which can be purchased at all participating venues around the region. Wine will be poured into your own glass which you can keep as a souvenir for the weekend. These glasses are only required for 'Traditional' (General Admission) events, not for masterclasses or long lunches, etc. which will be marked on the program.

We can only attend on the second weekend, can we still enjoy Gourmet without booking into a long lunch?

Cellar Doors will be open as usual on the second weekend. Check the program for specific details of what events will be happening.

Do we have to book into events?

Each winery/restaurant is managing their own event and will decide if they take bookings or not. Please check the events you want to attend on the program, as it is marked if they are ticketed or not. We suggest doing this early to avoid missing out on any events.

We want to enjoy the festivities but avoid the crowds, is this possible?

Most definitely! The traditional festival weekend is between May 19-21, after this date Gourmet events are focused on appreciating and learning about our region’s food and wine, masterclasses, dinners, lunches, tastings, paddock to plate and more. Check the program for further information and bookings.

Can I have a copy of the program posted to me?

The 2023 Clare Valley SCA Gourmet Week Program will be online only therefore we can't post it to you. You can curate a personalised itinerary and download/print selected events.

I have dietary requirements; can they be catered for?

Events have been asked to provide details of their dietary catering. If you’re booking in for a long lunch or masterclass for example, please advise of your dietary requirement when booking.

I don’t drink, will there be an opportunity for me to be involved?

Yes – On the festival weekend, all venues will have non-alcoholic drink options so you can still enjoy the food and the music on offer.

Family Friendly - how do I find out which venues support this?

The program will include a 'key' indicating which events will cater for these needs.