Wine grapes are grown in nearly every state and territory, but the major winegrowing areas are concentrated in the southern half of the continent, mostly within a hundred kilometres of the coast. Grapevines are grown under enormous variations of terrains, soils and climates.
The vineyards of southern Victoria, Tasmania and parts of Western Australia are as cool or cooler than Burgundy in France.
At the other extreme, the Lower Hunter region of New South Wales and most of the winegrowing areas of South Australia are known for their dry, temperate growing environment, although the Coonawarra and the Adelaide Hills in particular are known for their cooler climates.
South Australia remains the state with the largest area of vineyards. It produces half of the country’s wine grapes (more than double that of any other state) and is responsible for 70 per cent of the country’s wine exports. The easiest wine growing areas for visitors to access are listed below.
Next time you’re passing through a country town, head for the wide verandahs and cheery atmosphere of the local pub. Here you’ll discover the soul of a town; it’s where the beer is cold and the yarns are spun.
The Barossa Valley is one of the best known and productive wine districts in Australia and only 50 kilometres from Adelaide making it a comfortable drive from the city.
There are some 48 wineries in the Barossa that welcome visitors and some offer guided tours. The landscape includes thousands of hectares of maintained vineyards that contain some of the oldest Shiraz vines dating back to the 1840s. Over 500 grape growers, supply about 60 000 tonnes of Barossa grapes to some 50 wineries each vintage.
In a region rich with culture, one may also taste delights and a diverse range of dining experiences prepared by award-winning chefs. With over 20 restaurants and cafes available offering local produce and seasonal varieties such as wild mushrooms throughout winter. Fruits throughout summer and autumn sees the ripening of plump figs and fragrant quinces, juicy pears and crisp apples.
Hunter Valley Wine Country is just 2 hours drive north of Sydney and is composed of wines, gourmet food, restaurants and cafes, rustic cottages and beachside retreats. The region now yields more than a hundred wineries and cellar doors, embracing established areas such as Pokolbin, Broke Fordwich, Lovedale, Rothbury and Mount View. Enjoy private vineyard inspections and learn about the winemaking process. Wander among the vineyards, sample or purchase some excellent wines or just absorb the beautiful Australian countryside.
With over 80 wineries to choose from, taste the new generation wines like Verdelho and Chambourcin, or savour the latest vintage of classic Hunter Valley varieties such as Chardonnay, Semillon and Shiraz.
The Hunter Valley has over 30 fine restaurants to choose from. With a bounty of local ingredients to choose from, the local chefs create innovative and mouth watering dishes. Enjoy lunch at an al fresco café or country pub.
The Yarra Valley is Victoria's oldest vineyard region and is located 50km, just under a 1 hour drive to the east of Melbourne's centre. The Yarra Valley offers country retreats, wineries and restaurants and provides the excuse for luxurious accommodation and day trips.
Over 50 wineries are open for tastings and sales. Considered a noted cool climate wine districts of the world, the Yarra Valley specialises in sparkling wines, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Equally impressive are the full-bodied Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon styles. Superb wine is made to be enjoyed with fine food. The Yarra Valley offers over 30 café, restaurants and food outlets that embrace the region’s reputation for local produce, including freshwater salmon and trout, salmon caviar, ice cream, hazelnuts and chestnuts, organically grown fruit, berries and vegetables, handmade cheese, pastas and preserves.
There are several self-drive touring routes in the region, including the Yarra Valley Regional Food Trail.
The Margaret River is within an easy 3-hour driving distance from Perth; the area is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and relaxed lifestyle.
When you come to Margaret River, you are coming to one of the world's great winemaking regions. With over 80 wineries scattered throughout the unique countryside, the region has become famous for its fruity, dry whites, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. Margaret River Wines have a reputation for distinguished character and quality providing variety and blends.
The combination of world class wines and fine, fresh produce make dining out in Margaret River a pleasure. There are 60 restaurants to choose from offering a variety of foods that includes local cheeses, fruity pickles and preserves.