AUSTRALIAN RED WINE
Australian red wine showcases a diverse range of varietals, each with unique characteristics influenced by the country's varied climates and terroirs.
Here are some prominent varieties:
Shiraz
Known for its bold flavours of blackberry, plum, and dark chocolate, Shiraz is one of Australia's signature grape varieties.
It often features spicy notes and is typically full-bodied.
Cabernet Sauvignon
This varietal is celebrated for its rich flavours of black fruits, cedar, and dark chocolate.
It pairs well with hearty dishes like steak.
Merlot
A softer alternative to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot is fruit-forward with flavours of plum and cherry, making it versatile for various food pairings.
Grenache
Often used in blends, Grenache is vibrant with aromas of ripe berries and subtle spice.
It works well with Mediterranean cuisine.
Malbec
Originally from France but now popular in Australia, Malbec offers ripe fruit flavours like plum and blackberry, often with earthy undertones.
Sangiovese
This Italian varietal thrives in Australia, producing wines with bright acidity and flavours of cherry and strawberry, complemented by hints of spice.
Tempranillo
Known for its cherry and dried herb notes, Tempranillo is gaining popularity in Australia and pairs well with grilled meats.
Ripening earlier than other grapes, Tempranillo produces wines with a soft, silky mouthfeel and good aging potential in the Barossa region
Barbera
With its soft tannins and moderate acidity, Barbera features red fruit flavours like raspberry and cherry, making it approachable and food-friendly.
Tannat
This full-bodied varietal is characterised by firm tannins and flavours of blackberry and raspberry, often enjoyed after aging to soften its structure.
Chambourcin
A hybrid grape known for its medium body and fruity profile, featuring mulberry and cherry notes with a hint of spice.
Pinot Noir
This grape produces rich wines with jammy fruit flavours and subtle spice notes.
Grenache works well with Mediterranean cuisine
Some Lesser Known Emerging Varietals
Australia's wine industry is known for its experimentation with lesser-known grape varieties, producing unique and interesting red wines.
Here are some of the lesser-known Australian red wine varietals:
Cinsault
Cinsault, a grape variety cultivated in Australia since the early pioneering days, has often been overshadowed as a component in blends. However, its remarkable resilience to hot, dry climates and its capacity to produce elegant wines with vibrant acidity are earning it renewed attention, particularly in warmer regions like the Barossa Valley.
Mourvèdre
Valued for its dark grapes and bold flavours, Mourvèdre offers an alternative to Cabernet Sauvignon with its rich, full-bodied profile
Dolcetto
Planted in Victoria's Grampians region as early as 1868, this Italian variety produces light to medium-bodied reds with early-ripening characteristics
Saperavi
This Georgian grape shows great potential in the Barossa Valley, producing wines with natural acidity, moderate alcohol content, and intense colour due to its red pulp
