While gorgeous beaches and cute kangaroos may come to mind when thinking of Australia, the country is also home to some of the best wines in the world. Australian wine country includes the four areas of South Eastern, Western, New South Whales and Other Australia. The southern region is the country’s largest wine producing state, with a variety of styles and flavors. From the cellars of Penfolds to the sloping hills of Domaine A’s vineyards, these are some of our favorites when it comes to Australian wine.
Penfolds Grange
An iconic and prestigious Australian wine is Penfolds’ Grange. This collection is in a league of its own. The first few experiments by Max Schubert to create the Grange were heavily disliked, yet he continued crafting until stumbling on the perfect concoction. It was also later named Wine Spectator’s “Wine of the Year” in 1995. Since its release in 1952, the Grange collection has held a prestigious place in the wine industry. It’s even protected by the National Trust of South Australia! Bottles start at $850 for the Grange Shiraz and up to $2,000 per bottle for the Grange Shiraz Magnum. If you aren’t ready to splurge just yet on your own bottle, you can also go for a tasting or buy a glass at local restaurants in the region such as Magill Estate.
Patritti Saperavi
Originating in Georgia in the 1900s, Patritti enlisted the help of a local winemaker. After bringing his bottle of Saperavi back to Australian wine country, the locals quickly fell in love with the red wine. After gaining popularity, Patritti planted a vineyard in the Barossa Valley. Patritti Saperavi is best known for its deep red color and oak tones. You’ll smell its fresh beetroot, dark berries, and notes of spice – along with its natural acidity. It was also the Gold Winner of the 2018 Melbourne International Wine Competition. Fans of the wine rave that it is “easily the best vintage yet” and describe it as a “warm, gutsy wine.” The Saperavi’s full-bodied nature also gives you a rich taste and balanced structuring tannins that is rare to see in other varieties.
Yarra Yering Dry Red Wine No.1
Both stylish and classic, Yarra Yering’s Dry Red Wine No. 1 is a must-try Australian wine. After Dr. Carrodus grew the company to great success, he passed the tradition onto its current winemaker Sarah Crowe. This medium-bodied wine combines a fruit-layered palate with earthy undertones. Its aroma is signature blackberry and sarsaparilla, along with hints of sage and bergamot. Keeping with tradition, the Dry Red Wine also features a juicy acidity with undertones of fruit and fine dusty tannins. Their wine is harvested all by hand to get only the best berries in your wine. You can choose to open it upon receiving or place it in your cellar for 25+ years to continue its evolution.
Domaine A Cabernet Sauvignon
First established in 1973, Domaine A lies just outside the city of Hobart off the coast of Australia. Thanks to its cool climate and north-facing slope, its grapes also experience some of the longest hours of sunlight in the country! Their grapes are then picked during the Autumn days for perfect freshness and flavor when making the wine. Their Cabernet Sauvignon starts at around $210 a bottle, with other varieties including their Stoney Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Not only does it have a history of awards, but it is also in the collection of many prominent figures in the industry.
So, will you visit the Australian wine country anytime soon? Be sure to try a few of these vintages while you are there. Do you prefer a nice meal with your wine? Head over to our best wine and steak pairings in the world and learn how to pair your favorite glass!
