Would you believe that Australia is one of the world’s largest exporters of wine? Australians consume almost 500 million litres annually and ship another 800 million litres to overseas markets.

Wine is produced in every state, and there are more than 60 wine regions. The majority of vineyards are located in the southern, cooler parts of the country, from South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, 

Western Australia, Tasmania and Queensland.

The most prominent varieties are Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Semillon, Pinot Noir, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. Australia also produces excellent Champagne.

History

Viticulture was introduced to the country in 1788 when vine cuttings were brought from South Africa. The first attempt at creating wine failed. By 1820 local growers were successful at producing the first commercial wines made in Australia.

The production and quality of Australian wines benefitted from the arrival of settlers from various parts of Europe. These settlers used their skill and knowledge to establish some of the premier wine regions in the country.

By 1873 Australian wines were winning awards in European competitions. Australia has become a world leader in the quantity and quality of the wines it produces.

Chardonnay

Yarra Valley, Victoria’s oldest wine region has been producing Chardonnay since 1838. It is a cool climate region that is known for producing not only Chardonnay but sparkling wine and Pinot Noir.

Australian Chardonnay has developed from the rich, ripe wines of the 1980s to something simpler and more elegant. The traditional preparation of the wine was oaky, buttery and bright yellow. More recently some production has moved toward a lighter crisper version. Its versatility leads winemakers to experiment with different tastes.

Pinot Noir

The Mornington Peninsula south of Melbourne has a cool climate that is ideal for wine growing. The region focuses on Pinot Noir but has also had success with other varietals.

Pinot Noir from the region is delicate and food-friendly with flavours of cherries and red berries. Traditionally the wine is big and bold, but what makes Australia’s unique is the restraint, which results in earthy elegant wines.

Cabernet Sauvignon

The Margaret River south of Perth is a region rich with wineries. The area produces almost one-quarter of Australia’s premium wines. Comparisons of the Cabernet produced in the region compare favorably with wines made in the Bordeaux region of France.

As the third most planted grape in the country Australia is home to the world’s oldest productive Cabernet Sauvignon vines. Wines with complex and intense bold flavors are found here. With tastes of dark and red fruit, mint and blackcurrant these are outstanding wines.

Sparkling Wine

Most Australian sparkling wine is made with the traditional method using Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes.

The Tamar Valley in Tasmania produces some of the world’s best sparkling wines. In recent years Tasmanian sparkling has received numerous prestigious national and international awards.

Associated with celebrations, sparkling wine also pairs well with all sorts of foods. It’s perfect for any occasion.

No matter what your preference is, you can find an outstanding Australian wine to suit your taste.