Attention all foodies and wine fans – prepare to take your love of Australian wine to new heights!
Life down under is not just about breathtaking landscapes and curious Aussie wildlife; it’s also a mecca for everyone who loves to partake in the good things in life – and what culinary tour would be complete without experiencing the best that Australian wine has to offer?
From the sun-kissed vineyards of Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, to the cool-climate regions of Tasmania, Australia serves up an eclectic mix of wine varieties that pair wonderfully with its diverse cuisine scene.
So, if you’re ready to set off on a gastronomic journey like no other, let’s pop the cork on half a dozen Aussie wines that are destined to take your taste buds on a wild adventure.
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1. Cabernet Sauvignon
A heavyweight in the Australian wine scene, Cabernet sauvignon is known for its full-bodied structure and opulent flavours of blackcurrant, mint, and cedar.
Cab sav wine is produced in regions such as Coonawarra and Margaret River, and is a varietal that epitomises elegance, pairing well with a broad range of dishes.
From a succulent rack of lamb crusted with fragrant herbs and slow-roasted to perfection, to a melting beef tenderloin ladled with a luscious mushroom sauce, where the wine will bring out its intricate flavours.
Picture yourself feasting on a robust beef stew simmered with root vegetables, the rich tannins of the glass slicing through the hearty dish to leave a warm finish on the palate that lingers long after the spoon is surrendered. Can life get any better?
Whether dining al fresco beneath a canopy of stars or snuggling fireside, the addition of a bottle of cabernet sauvignon to your festivities will elevate any meal, turning ordinary occasions into distinctive, delicious memories.
2. Shiraz
Big, bold, and proud, this is as Aussie as a red can get — shiraz is the king of Oz reds for a reason.
The deep dark crimson has an aroma that says ‘G’day’, with ripe red and black berries and the faintest hint of cracked pepper.
If there’s one thing this wine is not, it’s a shy and retiring wallflower. On the contrary, it’s one of those indulgences that gives you a great big warm hug on a cold night.
This is absolutely the perfect choice for something really hearty like a sizzling steak from the grill, as the Southern Australians intended. I
t’s also just as amazing with something like slow-cooked barbecue ribs, where the intense smokiness of the meat will meld seamlessly with the full, bold character of the wine.
So, whether you’re firing up the barbie with friends, or just letting an incredible meal take you away, a bottle of shiraz will help you level-up the occasion.
3. Chardonnay
Smooth, sophisticated and utterly delicious, Australian chardonnay is fast becoming a game-changer for fans of white wine.
Imagine kicking back on an easy-going Margaret River vineyard, sun shining, glass of chardonnay in hand… or why not go there and experience the real thing?
The wine is nothing less than you’d expect: zesty citrus and ripe melon with an edge of creamy oak. In other words, it’s just like a breath of fresh air on a lazy summer afternoon.
When it comes to food pairings, Australian chardonnay is incredibly versatile. With its crisp, clean acidity and vibrant fruit flavours, it’s a perfect match for a wide range of dishes.
For a lighter, easy-sipping option, enjoy it with grilled seafood such as prawns or fish tacos.
The wine’s acidity will cut straight through the rich, oily nature of the seafood, while its fruitiness will marry beautifully with those charred flavours.
4. Riesling
When it comes to vibrant, zesty wines, Australian riesling takes the crown with its lip-smacking acidity and refreshing citrus notes.
Close your eyes and picture yourself in a sun-drenched garden, silk scarf fluttering in the warm breeze, sipping on a large glass while you’re enjoying a meal with friends.
With hints of zingy lime, mouth-watering green apple, and a touch of minerality, Australian riesling is a burst of sunshine in a bottle.
Now, let’s talk about pairings. Australian riesling is a match made in heaven for any number of dishes, from spicy Asian cuisine to the ocean’s finest.
One of our favourites is pairing it with a spicy Thai green curry — the wine’s laser-focused acidity slices straight through the succulent heat of the spices, setting up a pretty tantalising medley of flavours.
Another top contender is a platter of freshly shucked oysters, ready to be washed down with a lovely palate-cleansing citrus. Talk about versatility!
5. Pinot Noir
Next on our list is pinot noir. Elegant and charming, this wine offers a silky texture and a bouquet of delicate flavours that dance on the palate.
Take in the skyline from one of Melbourne or Sydney’s stylish rooftop bars as you’re sipping away, feeling like the most sophisticated person on the planet. Juicy cherry, ripe raspberry and a hint of earthiness encapsulate everything that this wine is about.
Pinot noir is a versatile match for a range of dishes too, from light bites to hearty mains.
The wine’s fruitiness will enhance the richness of a succulent seared duck breast dish in particular, and send a parade of flavours across your palate.
Prefer to go the veggo route? No stress, because pinot noir is the perfect partner for dishes like creamy mushroom pasta, risotto and more.
6. Sauvignon Blanc
And last but certainly not least, the ever-popular, fan-favourite sauvignon blanc. With its vibrant acidity and refreshing tropical fruit flavours, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Bursting with zesty passionfruit, tangy grapefruit and fresh-cut grass flavours, Australian sauvignon blanc is the perfect pour for anyone who craves a wine that’s carefree and delish.
Now, let’s get sipping on what makes sauvignon blanc so special. It has an incredibly versatile style, offering a palate that’s crisp, fresh and absolutely buzzing with flavour.
With its invigorating acidity and naturally fruity core, its lineup of tropical fruit flavours, and its adaptability to so many lively dishes (think anything from fresh seafood to lighter salads), the only trouble sauvignon blanc brings is choosing where and when to enjoy it.
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And there you have it — a mouth-watering journey through some of the finest wine varieties that Australia has to offer.
From a bold shiraz to an elegant chardonnay, these wines each present a unique taste of the Australian terroir and gastronomic culture.
Be sure to stop off at the vineyards on your tour of the country for a taste of what makes Australia so great.
Learn more about Australian wine regions in these posts
Things to Do in The Barossa Valley
Day Trip from Hobart to Richmond Tasmania
16 Things to Do in the Grampians
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