Reborn in the 1960's and 70's, Victoria possesses a huge variety of growing areas and makes Australian wines in many styles. The area boasts the largest number of wineries in Australia and produces over 25 percent of the total wine.
Great Western: High altitude Great Western north of the region's capital, Melbourne, is situated on the slope of the Great Dividing Range and one of the older regions within Victoria. Its comparatively cool climate and light soils make it well-suited for sparkling wines and Shiraz.
Goulbourn Valley: The expanding winemaking area of Goulbourn Valley seventy miles north of Melbourne has easy access to water and is the best area in the state for full-flavored, long-lived Australian red wines. Shiraz has been an area mainstay, as have Marsanne, full-flavored Chardonnay, Videlho and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Geelong: Geelong is a cool area, known for Pinot Noir. Pyrenees, an area which used to be known as Avcoa after the local mountains of the same name, produces rich and flavorful wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon. However, quality here is improving for sparklers and whites.
Yarra Valley: This is yet another dynamic region, with new vineyards appearing every year. At only an hour's drive from Melbourne it is the second coolest region in the state, and quite rainy. The area is known for its rolling hills and vineyards featuring a variety of grapes including Australian Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Noir.
Pyrenees: Just north of the coastal city of Geelong, this is a cool area known for Pinot Noir in the heart of historic Victorian-era goldfields. It was formerly known as Avoca after the local mountain of the same name. Vineyards are situated on the lower slopes and surroundings of the mountain. Harsh soils and continental climate (cold winters and warm, mostly dry summers) produce flavorful Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot. Chardonnay and sparkling wines (some in cooperation with Champagne houses Charles and Piper Heidsieck) continue to improve.
Other Victoria districts: Other Victoria districts and sub-regions include the Northeast (Milawa, Rutherglen), the Northwest, Swan Hill, the Mournington Peninsula, Bendigo and Moonambel. |
