Australian wine has been an international favourite for some time now. Our fertile regions and temperate climates make for the perfect lands to grow both white and red varieties in abundance.
Whether it’s the spicy fruitiness of an Australian Shiraz, the rich palate of Cabernet Sauvignon or juicy citrus of a Riesling, Australian wine is remarkably popular here and all over the world.
Let’s take a look at some of the gorgeous regions producing one of our most prized exports.
The Barossa Valley, SA
It’s safe to say South Australia is Australia’s wine making state: a land of rich soil and perfect temperatures that make conditions a dream for winemakers. The Barossa is Australia’s haven for fine wine and delectable produce, with huge names like Seppelt, Peter Lehman, Yalumba and Maggie Beer all producing quality vino and delicious food.
A visit to the Barossa is replete with cellar doors and delightful pairings, as well as a journey to some of the country’s premier farmers markets, where you can purchase everything from fresh cheese to flowers, first class meat and, naturally, a few bottles of world class Shiraz.
The Hunter Valley, NSW
The Hunter Valley, as well as being a beautiful place to spend the weekend, is also one of Australia’s most revered wine regions, with world class drops being produced all along its rolling hills.
Situated a cheeky three hours’ drive from Sydney, the Hunter Valley is well renowned for its fruity Semillon, and you can find it at many of the cellar doors that dot this fertile land.
The Hunter Valley is also a wonderful place to relax and unwind, with sumptuous produce, hot air balloon rides, cooking classes and horseback riding all making up a wonderful itinerary in this charming region.
The Yarra Valley, VIC
The Yarra Valley may be one of Australia’s smaller wine regions, but it is also one of the country’s favourites, producing very fine Pinot Noir that is beloved in Melbourne and around the world.
What’s more, a visit to the Yarra Valley is replete with wonderful activities like forest hiking and hot air balloon rides (should you feel up to it after a few cellar door experiences and boozy dinners).
Located a short drive from the Melbourne CBD, the Yarra Valley is the perfect weekend getaway for couples and mates alike.
Margaret River, WA
Margaret River is located a quick three hour drive from Perth, making it a must-see for visitors to southwest WA. Not only is the region utterly gorgeous, it’s also home to some of Australia’s most prized (and expensive) wines, with the region boasting some of the country’s finest Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.
It may be a place only avid wine connoisseurs and people already on the west side of Oz end up visiting, but it is totally worth it – it’s a truly magical part of the country with world class wine to boot!
Coonawarra, SA
Coonawarra is the quintessential Australian wine region. In fact, as soon as you hear its name, you immediately think of a drop of high end vino, Cabernet Sauvignon, to be exact. The Cabernet Sauvignon in this region is revered around the world, and you will find it at high prices in wine bars and stores from Adelaide to London.
Coonawarra, whilst being a reasonably short drive from Adelaide, can also make up part of the itinerary of a journey from Melbourne to Adelaide or vice versa – travellers don’t regret it.