Learn about red wines of Australia

Over the years winemaking has gained immense popularity in Australia. Wine was particularly introduced in this country by the European settlers and in the present day, Australia can be dubbed as one of the leading quality and quantity wine producer. Along with this, Australia has also gained fourth position amongst the largest wine exporters in the word. The dry and warm climate makes the country ideal for producing wines. A major part of the land is covered by vineyards located in different wine regions. In this blog, we will be discovering some of the red wine grown in Australia.

Shiraz
Of all the red wine varieties grown in Australia, Shiraz is the one most produced and is produced in almost all the wine regions. Also known as Syrah in other parts of the world, the Australian Shiraz is known for both still and sparkling styles. A very versatile grape variety, it is deep plum coloured wine which shows complex flavours and aromas.

Cabernet Sauvignon
Often blended with Merlot and Shiraz grapes, Cab Sauv is the second red wine variety most grown in Australia. A food-friendly varietal, it is grown in different warm and cool regions of the country thus showing very different attributes. Warmer region Cab Sauv is generally sweeter although when grown in cooler climate it shows savoury and herbal notes.

Merlot
A classic red wine, it is commonly used in the famous Bordeaux style blends. Some of the most popular wine regions of Australia like Coonawarra and Margaret Region are known for their world class Merlot wines. It generally shows earthy characters along with liquorice, chocolate note as it ripens.

Pinot Noir
A cool climate wine, it has finally found its position as one of the mainstream red wine varieties grown in Australia. Regions like Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and parts of southern WA produce very fine Pinot Noir. It is a dry, more acidic, complex and relatively mild wine which goes well with red meats and oily fishes.

Ranging from complex Shiraz to light Pinot Noir, you can order from a huge variety of red and white wine available here. Enjoy!

Some Basic Facts About Cabernet Sauvignon

Country of Origin

The country of origin of Cabernet Sauvignon is Bordeaux, France.

Areas where it is grown?

Cabernet Sauvignon is grown in United States, Chile, Argentina, France, Spain, Italy, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

Color of the wine?

The wine color is dark ruby red.

Characteristics of Wine?

A typical Cabernet Sauvignon wine  is a medium to full body with strong tannins. It is dry (low on sweetness), with medium acidity. The wine is generally characterized as dark and dense whereas the wine coming from cool climate has flavours of Asparagus whereas medium climate wines has mint and eucalyptus flavours.

Serving and Storing

The ideal temperature for serving this wine is around 17-19 degree Celsius. If the temperature at which the wine is served is above the optimum temperature, wine will not produce the desirable taste. The wine needs to be opened 3-6 hours before serving which is due to presence of high level of tannins, it needs an additional time to open itself and time to breathe before being savoured.  

Type of Glass used?

A Bordeaux glass is most suitable to serve Cabernet Sauvignon. As it has wider opening it helps in releasing more flavours in the wine after the wine gets in contact with the air.

Food Pairing

Cabernet Sauvignon wonderfully pairs with steak and with dark chocolate. Steak is rich in proteins and fats and Cabernet Sauvignon acts as a scraper which removes the proteins and fats present on the tongue and compliments it well. The wine can also be paired with beef, game and hard cheese. Is normally paired with multi-flavoured dishes as it has sweetness in it.

Oldest Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard

The oldest Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard of the world is Kalimna Vineyard - Block 42 in Australia. The vines were planted around 1886 which makes it more than 125 years old. The vineyard is owned by Penfolds, Australia’s famous wine brand.

Most Expensive Wine in the world

1992 Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon is the most expensive wine in the world sold at an auction at a price of $500,000 in the year 2000.