Australia’s wine-making history stretches all the way back to the First Fleet’s arrival in 1788. Since then, our country’s viniculture has grown by leaps and bounds, and today boasts some of the world’s most sought-after wines. But what are the best wine regions in Australia, and where can you can find some of the top Australian wine brands? Let’s take a look.
The Barossa Valley, South Australia
Established by German settlers in 1842, the Barossa Valley, 70km north of Adelaide, is home to some of the world’s oldest grape vines – some more than 100 years old. Today, the region has more than 150 wineries and 80 cellar doors and is renowned for its signature full-bodied Shiraz, as well as Chardonnay, Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon. The Barossa Farmers Market also happens every Saturday from 7.30-11.30am, giving visitors a chance to try locally grown produce and artisanal goods from local growers and makers.
Known for: Full-bodied Shiraz, rich Cabernets, fresh Rieslings and Chardonnays.
Wine to try at The Meat & Wine Co: 2006 Torbreck ‘The Factor’ Shiraz – dense and bullish with a huge concentration and purity of deep dark currents, cassis, blackberries and plum.
Hunter Valley, New South Wales
Australia’s oldest wine region, the Hunter Valley was established in the mid-19th century by James Busby, who is regarded as the father of the Australian wine industry. With vineyards dating back to the 1860s still in operation, as well as more than 150 wineries and a wide range of cellar doors and winery tours, the Hunter Valley is the ultimate oenophile’s playground. At just over 3 hours’ drive from Sydney, the Hunter Valley makes the perfect spot for a cheeky weekend away.
Known for: Fresh, citrusy Semillon wines, earthy Shiraz, and rich Chardonnays.
Wine to try at The Meat & Wine Co: 2017 Brokenwood Semillon – aromas of talc and citrus rind, with notes of orange blossom in the background.
Yarra Valley, Victoria
The Yarra Valley, an hour’s drive north-east of Melbourne, is one of Australia’s coolest growing climates and boasts 300 vineyards and more than 150 wineries. The area is known for its Pinot Noir, and is also home to innovative winemakers seeking to push the boundaries in viniculture, with a strong focus on quality and flavour. The region is also renowned for its produce, including freshwater salmon, artisan cheeses, crafted preserves and handmade chocolates.
Known for: Refined Pinot Noirs, floral Cabernet Sauvignons and savoury, spicy Shiraz.
Wine to try at The Meat & Wine Co: 2017 Brokenwood Semillon – aromas of talc and citrus rind, with notes of orange blossom in the background.
Adelaide Hills, South Australia
Adelaide Hills is reachable in under half an hour from Adelaide, making it an easy stopover for locals and visitors alike. Although it’s a relatively young wine region, Adelaide Hills has quickly risen through the ranks to offer some of Australia’s most respected cool-climate Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Sauvignon Blanc.
Known for: Zesty, crisp Sauvignon Blancs, medium-bodied Pinot Noirs and elegant, fruity Chardonnays.
Wine to try at The Meat & Wine Co: 2017 Shaw & Smith ‘M3’ Chardonnay – acid is bright and there’s generosity of flavour, with notes of white flowers, citrus and nectarine.
Margaret River, Western Australia
Located around three hours south of Perth, Margaret River is one of the most isolated wine regions in the world. Despite this, the region produces around 20% of Australia’s premium wines out of just 3% of the country’s wine grapes. Home to more than 150 wineries, fine-dining restaurant and beautiful landscapes, it’s easy to see why the Margaret River is a popular destination for wine lovers and tourists alike.
Known for: Earthy Cabernet Sauvignons, complex Chardonnays and crisp Sauvignon Blancs and Semillons.
Wine to try at The Meat & Wine Co: Vasse Felix ‘Tom Cullity’ Cabernet Sauvignon – juicy cherries, cassis, cedar, chocolate, spices and oak, with soft tannins showing off amazing depth and length of flavour.
Consider yourself a wine aficionado? Sample a glass of something special from our wine list by booking a table at The Meat & Wine Co.
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