South Australia
Almost half of all Australia ’s wine comes from South Australia, which is a vast land area. The Riverland area produces large quantities of 'bulk-wine' for the supermarkets and their own-brand labels but South Australia is also home to a growing number of high-quality producers from specific micro-climates dotted around the area, so its important to know your producers as well as what to look for. See the varied (and famous) wine regions of South Australia below.
Barossa Valley - The ‘Barossa GI Zone’ encompasses both the Barossa and Eden Valleys where wine-making was established by English and Silesian immigrants in the 1840’s. The Barossa is rightly famous for producing some of the best single varietal and blended old vine Shiraz in the world - luscious, rich and complex. Cabernet Sauvignon also does very well in the Barossa and is noted for a richer, more fruit-driven style than its ' old world' counterparts. The best fortified wines from the Barossa also rank among the finest in the world.
Vintage Recommendations: 1990, 1991, 1996, 1998, 2002, 2005
Clare Valley - The Clare Valley is famous for young and fresh Riesling that will also develop magnificently over time, sometimes for many years. Experts are also watching the Clare Valley for its Shiraz where some superb examples can be found.
Vintage Recommendations: 1990, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2002, 2005
Coonawarra - Coonawarra is known for its bright red, 'Terra Rossa' soil. This unique terrior shines through in the best wines from this region. Unfortunately, many wines sold in the UK under the Coonawarra designation are decidedly average. But among the smaller producers are masters of the craft whose wines are a class apart.
Vintage Recommendations: 1990, 1998, 2002+
Eden Valley - Probably better known for whites than reds, the Eden Valley produces sensational Riesling, particularly in the higher, southerly reaches near the Mount Lofty Ranges. Some top-quality Chardonnay is also made here along with some stunning reds from legendary producers like Henschke.
Vintage Recommendations: 1990, 1997, 2002, 2005
McLaren Vale - The Maclaren Vale, just to the south of Adelaide, is cooled by the sea and can produce wines of balance and depth with high-quality, ripe fruit. Shiraz, Cabernet, Mouvedre and Grenache are the big players from a region that continues to grow in stature. In time it can be expected that the distinctive wine-growing enclaves of the Mclaren will be recognised as designations in their own right.
|
|
|
| Made in