A Grape Way to See Australia

A GRAPE WAY TO SEE AUSTRALIA

Renowned New Zealand wine critic John Hawkesby recently confessed his love of Australian wine and the spectacular wine regions of the country. While Hawkesby still appreciates New Zealand wine, he also enjoys the quality and diversity which comes from Australian wine.

There are approximately 68 wine regions across Australia and Hawkesby is unable to choose a favourite as he enjoys them all.

“In my experience Australian wines all play to their own strengths. I appreciate them all and love the big, bold, expansive environments and the ability to grow grapes almost anywhere,” says Hawkesby.

Hawkesby describes the Barossa region as stunning and enjoys the historical and iconic wineries which often feature unique restaurants for a complete food and wine experience.

Australia’s wine has a fantastic reputation with more than 60,000 New Zealanders visiting an Australian winery in 2006 alone. Hawkesby agrees with the popular reputation, highlighting the diversity as key to the country’s wine.

“I applaud the adventurous way that many winemakers in Australia are experimenting into diverse and new styles and their determination not to rest on their laurels and just churn out the same old styles,” says Hawkesby.

Hawkesby’s love of Australian wine means he is also able to appreciate the difference between New Zealand and Australian wines.

“The difference in climates and the different vine ages between the two countries enables each country to produce different styles of wine. Our current Viognier efforts don’t match those in Australia and I’ve been pleasantly surprised recently with the quality of some Australian Pinot Noir,” says Hawkesby.

The huge diversity of wine regions in Australia, from beachside wineries through to cooler vineyards, means Australia is able to produce a wide range of wine styles. From the popular Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc to new varieties such as Pinot Noir, Viognier and Marsanne, Australia produces them all to award-winning standards.

“I believe that the different Australian regions reflect their distinctive Australian terroir (French term which denotes the special characteristics of the region).

“Australian Shiraz, especially from the Barossa region, is truly unique. It is fruity, jammy and very generous. Australian Rieslings and Semillon are bewitching and an alluring style unique to Australia,” says Hawkesby.

Australia’s wine regions have a laid back atmosphere with fresh produce and fine food. Not only are most wineries available for tastings and cellar door sales, but often offer delicious Australian food – from platters to gourmet feasts.

More than four and a half million people visit Australian wineries each year, equivalent to the population of New Zealand. These wine growing regions are ideal holiday destinations for visitors to take in spectacular scenery and delicious food and wine.

New Zealand’s Regional Manager for Tourism Australia, Vito Anzelmi encourages Kiwis to experience Australian wine and wine regions for themselves.

“Australia is the seventh-largest wine producer across the globe and has over 1,700 wineries across Australia with a large range of varietals and styles for visitors to try.

“It is fantastic that such a well-known New Zealand wine critic is enjoying Australian wine and praising the Australian wine industry,” says Anzelmi.

Hawkesby agrees and recommends New Zealanders should hop over the ditch to sample the unique Australian wine and cuisine.

“Be prepared for pleasant surprises! It’s a vast country with a large variety of excellent wine styles. Be sure to allow plenty of time and ask lots of questions while you’re there. The depth of knowledge and passion by Australian wine professionals in restaurants and sommeliers is outstanding. They are extremely knowledgeable, helpful and objective. Full credit to the Australian wine industry,” says Hawkesby.

ENDS

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