What is Australian Shiraz?

Shiraz is the Australian name for the Syrah grape — the same variety grown in France's Rhône Valley. In Australia it produces a very different expression: typically riper and fuller-bodied in warm regions like the Barossa, but more elegant and peppery in cooler regions like McLaren Vale, Yarra Valley and the Adelaide Hills.

What are Australia's best wine regions?

For reds: Barossa Valley (old-vine Shiraz and Grenache), McLaren Vale (Shiraz), Margaret River (Cabernet Sauvignon), Coonawarra (Cabernet Sauvignon), Yarra Valley (Pinot Noir). For whites: Clare and Eden Valleys (Riesling), Hunter Valley (Sémillon), Margaret River (Chardonnay).

Does Australian wine age well?

Absolutely. Hunter Valley Sémillon develops extraordinary honeyed, toasty complexity after 10–20 years. Barossa Shiraz from top producers can age for 30+ years. Clare Valley Riesling develops lime marmalade and petrol complexity with time.

What food pairs with Australian wine?

Australian Shiraz is perfect with beef, barbecued meats and game. Margaret River Cabernet suits lamb and beef. Yarra Valley Pinot Noir works beautifully with duck, salmon and chicken. Clare Valley Riesling is superb with Asian food and seafood.

What is Australian Shiraz?

Shiraz is the Australian name for the Syrah grape — the same variety grown in France's Rhône Valley. In Australia it produces a very different expression: typically riper and fuller-bodied in warm regions like the Barossa, but more elegant and peppery in cooler regions like McLaren Vale, Yarra Valley and the Adelaide Hills.

What are Australia's best wine regions?

For reds: Barossa Valley (old-vine Shiraz and Grenache), McLaren Vale (Shiraz), Margaret River (Cabernet Sauvignon), Coonawarra (Cabernet Sauvignon), Yarra Valley (Pinot Noir). For whites: Clare and Eden Valleys (Riesling), Hunter Valley (Sémillon), Margaret River (Chardonnay).

Does Australian wine age well?

Absolutely. Hunter Valley Sémillon develops extraordinary honeyed, toasty complexity after 10–20 years. Barossa Shiraz from top producers can age for 30+ years. Clare Valley Riesling develops lime marmalade and petrol complexity with time.

What food pairs with Australian wine?

Australian Shiraz is perfect with beef, barbecued meats and game. Margaret River Cabernet suits lamb and beef. Yarra Valley Pinot Noir works beautifully with duck, salmon and chicken. Clare Valley Riesling is superb with Asian food and seafood.