Ever wondered where the wine in your glass comes from? Australia produces over one billion litres of wine a year, from 1.6 million tonnes of grapes grown in our country.
This accounts for about 4 per cent of the world’s wine production. And, in terms of the varietals Australians like to drink, Shiraz comes out on top followed by Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Here’s the lowdown on where most of it is produced…
South Australia From Adelaide you are a short drive from a handful of top class wine regions, namely the Adelaide Hills (Chardonnay), Barossa Valley (Shiraz), Clare Valley (Riesling) and Coonawarra (Cabernet). The wide variety of conditions on offer has made SA the largest producer by volume, and thanks to its relative isolation, the Barossa claims to house the oldest living vineyards in the world. Adelaide is also home to the Australian Wine Research Institute, which is at the forefront of dry climate wine cultivation, research and education.
New South Wales The Hunter Valley is the centre of wine production in New South Wales, and is home to some of the first vines planted on the continent. Here you can sample wines from any of the Hunter’s 120+ wineries, where Chardonnay, Semillon, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon are the standout varietals. Another region in the state with an emerging wine sector is Orange, where aromatic whites like Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc are proving popular, backed by a flourishing foodie scene.
Victoria Victoria is justifiably famous for its cool climate wines, particularly Pinot Noir, with the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula the state’s hot spots. Both regions also boast fine dining options as well as abundant local produce, including gourmet cheeses and a fine selection of micro-breweries. If you want to try something different, look for wines from Victoria’s High Country, where the influence is Italian and local growers have planted varieties such as Sangiovese and Nebbiolo.
Western Australia Even though vines here have only been under cultivation since the 1970’s, Margaret River has fast become synonymous with wine production in WA. Here 155+ wineries produce Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon blends, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon to tempt the palate. And if that is not enough, the stunning beaches and food scene are other draw cards that keep people coming back for more.
Tasmania As is to be expected, Tasmania is perfect territory for cool climate wines such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Gewurztraminer. The Tamar Valley, the centre of wine production in the state, is the place to head for, and is accessible just a short drive north of Hobart.
Where are Edenvale grapes from? Our grapes are sourced from select vineyards across South Eastern Australia, where we strive to select optimum parcels of fruit that display strong varietal definition.
Keen to learn more? Then why not explore our range of alcohol removed wines or find a local stockist for a taste test?