In giving a history of the Stanley Wine Company it is necessary to record the reasons for such a venture starting. Grapes were grown in the Clare Valley since the early 1840’s with the explorer, John Horrocks planting the first vines at Penwortham. Edward John Gleeson (the founder of Clare) also planted approximately 800 vines at Inchiquin in the 1840’s. The early settlers planted many plots and made their own wine with the surplus sold as harvest wine. An upsurge in vine planting in the Clare area occurred after the Government of the day received a glowing report on the possibilities of viticulture in the area. As a result, many small vineyards were planted, the main ones being J.H. Knappstein, John Hope and Christison.