Wines of Australia
The first vines arrived in the Australian territory at the end of the 18th century and lived their peak in the middle of the 19th century. The phylloxera stopped the progress and the warlike conflicts of the first half of the 20th century were not more encouraging. However, the second half of the last century reflects the potential of Australian wines and the world of wine. Since the creation of the prestigious Penfolds Grange in 1951 to the present day, Australian wine has climbed significantly and has found its place in the sector. The creation of the Geographical Indications in 1993 represents the commitment to quality and terroir.
During the past decades, two grape varieties defined their path well and have gained international prestige: we are talking about the Chardonnay and Shiraz grapes, white and red respectively. Shiraz is the best known and its vineyards represent more than 25% of all the vineyards in Australia. Other large specimens that are growing are the Grenache, Mourvedre (locally known as Mataro), Cinsault and Pinot Noir. As for white grapes, Riesling is gaining worldwide prestige, competing with the big riesling of Germany or Alsace.
Surface area
148,000 hectares
Wine Production
13 million hectoliters
Wine regions
5 Wine Regions
65 Geographical Indications
Most Planted Grapes
(in hectares)
White
Chardonnay 21,442
Sauvignon Blanc 6,100
Semillon 4,570
Riesling 3,157
Red
Shiraz 39,900
Cabernet Sauvignon 24,682
Merlot 8,415
Pinot Noir 4,950
Grenache 1,507
Undoubtedly, Australian viticulture is dynamic and will always be in motion.
Source: OIV, Wine Australia
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