As with my last Education post, this one will continue exploring wine producing countries. In this case, I will be going “down under” to Australia & New Zealand. Much like South America’s Argentina and Chile, there are many bargains to be had here, you just have to know which “regions” to look for, which is where I come in. Many of these wines can be had at Clinton Wine & Spirits, the Saratoga Wine Exchange, or whatever your local outlet might be, for very reasonable prices (high Billy to low Steve’s ranges). As always, I will be using my notes and my 2 reference books (WAoW & OCtW). Let’s get to it.
Australia is the 4th largest producer of wine in the world and began doing so in the 1820’s. Today, there are more than 10 major wine regions, including Tasmania. I will be focusing on the ones found in South Australia, where more than 1/2 of Australia’s wine comes from. The two oldest (Barossa and McLaren Vale) are where you will find the best Shiraz, and pretty decent Cab. Sauvs. Clare Valley and Eden Valley are where you want to go for Rieslings, since their climate is very German-like. Adelaide Hills is where you will find the best Pinot Noirs, as it is very much like Burgundy. Finally, over in Western Australia, keep an “eye out” for Margaret River, the “little Bordeaux” of Australia. It’s newer, but there are some seriously “premium” wines coming out of this region.
New Zealand is famous for its Sauv. Blancs, which are part of the white wine “family” that make up more than 2/3’s of what this country produces. Starting in the 1830’s, in one region on the northern of its 2 islands, New Zealand today boasts 10 major wine regions. The northern island is the best place to go for Chardonnays; so Auckland, Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, & Waipara (Martinborough) would be the regions to look for. Lots of other decent whites come off of this island. The king, of course, is Marlborough, where 85% of New Zealand’s Sauv. Blancs come from. One other region worth mentioning on the southern island is Central Otaga. It is newer, VERY south, and grows pretty decent Pinot Noirs.
That should do it for this post. Next time, I will reveal the Wine of the Month for July, another “summer treat”. Stay cool and relax with a glass “on me”. Cheers!