A claymore is an old-fashioned Scottish sword. While it’s not 100 per cent clear how this weaponry relates to the Clare Valley, there can be no doubt that Claymore puts a rock ‘n’ roll spin on the local wine scene, which at times can seem a little fusty and quaint. Looking down the wine list here is like flipping through a classic-rock record collection: Dark Side of the Moon shiraz; Bittersweet Symphony cabernet sauvignon; Voodoo Child chardonnay; Whole Lotta Love rosé; Joshua Tree riesling…
Claymore founder Anura Nitchingham clearly appreciates the symbiosis between good wine and good music. And – not being one to let traditions and formalities get in the way of expressing his passions – Nitchingham’s lifelong adoration of the Liverpool Football Club is also front and centre here, with his dedicated ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ range of reds and whites, referencing Liverpool’s tear-jerking anthem.
Tastings inside the impressive grey steel cellar door start at $5, or sit in the sun on the deck and dive into a grazing platter (local cheeses and cured meats) as you enjoy a punky London Calling cabernet malbec.
