This is the locomotive of the wine industry. South Australia is the premier state for wine, producing about 45 percent of Australia's total. Districts include cool and windy Adelaide Hills and the very hot Adelaide Plains, known for Shiraz and home of Penfolds Grange.
Barossa Valley: The oldest name in Australia, the Barossa Valley is home to many producers, with around one-quarter of total Australian production. The area features a wide range of soils and microclimates, and is known for Shiraz, Grenache and Riesling.
Clare Valley: Northwest of the Eden Valley lies this long, picturesque district full of eucalyptus. The Clare Valley is known for Shiraz, Semillon, Grenache, and oddly, Riesling.
Coonawarra: Coonawarra�s prime �Terra Rossa� (red earth belt) is nine miles long by one mile wide and considered the Australian M�doc, known for Cabernet Sauvignon distinguished by mulberry and mint flavors, and related grapes such as Shiraz, the best with overtones of cedar, cherry, and black pepper.
Other South Australia: Remaining South Australian wine areas of note are Eden Valley, Riverland, McLaren, Vale, Langhorn Creek and Padthaway. |
