Australia is quickly becoming one of the world powers of wine. The wine industry in Australia is perhaps the most technologically advanced, and forward-thinking on earth.
Australia has no native vines. Winemaking grapevines first came to the country in 1788, from South Africa. Fast forward 234 years and Australia is now famous for its fresh, fruity red and white table wines that are extremely consistent in quality. Australia now ranks sixth in the world in wine production — making slightly more than half as much wine as the United States — and fourth in exports.
The two most popular grapes are Chardonnay and Syrah (known locally as Shiraz); Sémillon and Cabernet Sauvignon come next, and workhorse varieties such as Grenache and Riesling are enjoying a resurgence of interest.
Blended wines are created all over the world and typically follow classic French models: Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and Cabernet Franc, for example, or Sémillon with Sauvignon Blanc. But Australia decided to play to its strengths and invented two completely original blends: Shiraz with Cabernet Sauvignon, and Semillon with Chardonnay.
For an easy introduction to some delicious Australian wines, we’ve put together a collection that is as approachable as it is affordable.
Oxford Landing Sauvignon Blanc
Fresh and zesty aromas of green nettles, passionfruit, lemongrass, and mango. Light-bodied showing layers of fresh lemongrass and papaya flavors. Fine, crunchy acidity helps to focus the taste buds on the finish, which is persistent, clean, and utterly delicious.
Schild Shiraz
Open aromatic red and dark berry fruit aromas combine alongside subtle glimpses of dark chocolate and controlled oak spice. The soft deep red and black fruit notes seen together on the nose also show in abundance on the palate where they are accompanied by a fresh acid line and a super fine tannin frame.
Penfolds Bin 8 Cabernet – Shiraz
Cabernet Sauvignon-Shiraz blended wines are a particular specialty of Australia showcasing ripe, balanced, dark fruit flavors and spice supported by softly integrated oak resulting in an impressive, smooth red wine.
Yalumba Y Series Viogner
Established in 1849, Yalumba is Australia’s oldest family-owned winemaker. The Yalumba Y Series is a refreshing Viognier with aromas of honeysuckle, candied ginger, and pineapple. Flavors to be found on the palate include fresh pineapple and lychee. It is on the fresher, lighter end of the Viognier spectrum and shows all the unique characteristics of this exotic variety, without being too rich on the palate.
19 Crimes Cabernet
Firm & full on the palate with a subtle sweetness giving a rich mouthfeel. The vanilla aromatics carry through on the palate & compliment subtle flavors of red currants, dark cherries, & chocolate. The palate is filled with dark berry fruit & soft tannins.
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