| Msgr. Patrick S. Brennan |
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In 1850, the Jesuits purchased land in the Clare Valley and named it Sevenhill after the seven hills of Rome. Within a few years the Jesuits established a small winery and began work on a college for boys and the construction of a church, St. Aloysius. By 1870 the college was completed, and it and served as a boarding school, seminary and Jesuit community residence. Today Sevenhill is a winery (the first winery in the Clare Valley) and a Jesuit retreat center. Of note is the connection between Sevenhill and Australia's first saint, St. Mary Mackillop, RSJ. Sevenhill Winery produces sacramental wine as well as premium table wines.