Australia has in just 50 years developed from an almost unknown wine country to one of the world's most important wine destinations. The country is especially famous for its powerful Shiraz from Barossa Valley and its versatile Chardonnay — but there is much more to discover.
What distinguishes Australian wine is the conscious, technically competent winemaking combined with a sunny climate that gives ripe, fruity wines with good natural body.
Australia's signature: Shiraz. Barossa Valley Shiraz is the world's best example of this grape — powerful, dark, fruity with chocolate and eucalyptus. See guide to Syrah and Shiraz.
The most important Australian wine regions
- Barossa Valley (South Australia) — world's best Shiraz. Warm, dry climate gives powerful, concentrated wines.
- McLaren Vale (South Australia) — softer, more elegant Shiraz and excellent Grenache blends.
- Clare Valley (South Australia) — world's best Riesling outside Europe. Fresh, mineral and age-worthy.
- Margaret River (Western Australia) — elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay in a more European style.
- Yarra Valley (Victoria) — cool climate gives elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. See guide to Pinot Noir.
- Hunter Valley (New South Wales) — historic region famous for age-worthy Semillon.
Australian Chardonnay — from buttery heavy to elegant
Australian Chardonnay has undergone a revolution. The heavy, heavily oaked style from the 1990s has been replaced by a much more elegant, mineral approach. Margaret River and Yarra Valley today produce Chardonnay wines that easily measure up to good white Bourgogne wines. See guide to Chardonnay for more.
What does good Australian wine cost?
Australia delivers excellent affordable quality. A good Barossa Shiraz costs 100-180 kr and is never a disappointment. If you want the big upgrade, the Penfolds Bin series (200-500 kr) is a classic choice — and Grange is one of the world's legendary wines.
Frequently asked questions
What are Australia's most important wine regions?
The most important regions are Barossa Valley (world's best Shiraz), McLaren Vale (softer Shiraz and Grenache), Clare Valley (excellent Riesling), Margaret River (elegant Cabernet and Chardonnay) and Yarra Valley (cool Pinot Noir and Chardonnay).
Is Australian Chardonnay still buttery heavy?
No — Australian Chardonnay has undergone a revolution. The heavy, very oaked style from the 1990s has been replaced by a much more elegant, mineral approach. Margaret River and Yarra Valley today produce Chardonnay wines that easily measure up to good white Bourgogne wines.
What does good Australian wine cost?
Australia delivers excellent affordable quality. A good Barossa Shiraz costs 100-180 kr and is never a disappointment. The Penfolds Bin series (200-500 kr) is a classic premium choice.
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