Our top five tips to get the most out of the 2023 Clare Valley SCA Gourmet Week

If you're planning on attending, we've got you covered with our top five tips for getting the most out of your visit:

Plan ahead and make reservations early: The Clare Valley SCA Gourmet Week is a popular event, so it's important to plan ahead and make reservations early to secure your accommodation and seat at the table. Think about how you are getting around to each event, and check out our official program to see which events you'd like to visit. Our program can be filtered by category and date to make it super easy to navigate. Once you’ve decided on your plan, make your reservations (if required) as soon as possible.

Dress appropriately and check the weather forecast: The Clare Valley SCA Gourmet Week is a special event, so it's important to dress appropriately for the occasion. The dress code is usually smart casual, so dress up a little, but also make sure you wear comfortable shoes as you may be walking around a lot during the event. Additionally, the event takes place in autumn, which means the weather can be quite unpredictable. Make sure to check the forecast before you head out and dress accordingly, bringing layers to easily adjust your clothing based on the temperature, and an umbrella or rain jacket just in case. With the right clothing, you'll be able to enjoy all of the delicious food and wine on offer, no matter what the weather brings.

Pace yourself: With so many delicious food and wine options to choose from, it's easy to get carried away and overindulge. Pace yourself and take your time to savour each dish and sip of wine. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated (thanks to RAA for the water stations you'll find around the festival) and consider sharing dishes with your companions to sample more of the menu.

Be open to new flavours: One of the best parts of the Clare Valley SCA Gourmet Week is trying new foods and wines. Be open to new flavours and textures, and don't be afraid to try something outside of your usual comfort zone. It's a great opportunity to broaden your palate and discover new favourites.

Enjoy the local scenery: In addition to the food and wine, the Clare Valley is a beautiful region with picturesque vineyards, quaint towns, and stunning natural scenery. Take some time to explore the local area and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, maybe even exploring the Riesling Trail, and perhaps consider booking some accommodation for a longer stay so you can fully appreciate all that the Clare Valley has to offer.

There you have it, our top tips for making the most of the Clare Valley SCA Gourmet Week in 2023! Get ready to savour the flavours of the Clare Valley and immerse yourself in the ultimate culinary journey, we’ll see you in the Clare Valley soon.