Which Australian wine varieties are grown in sunny Oz? Australia is known for its hefty Shiraz, Cab Sav and Grenache reds as well as Semillon and Riesling in the white fam. But there’s more to it than the well known varieties. Let’s get in to Australia’s full repertoire of vinos.
Reds
As aforementioned, Australia is best known for it’s Shiraz which are often quite high percentage. Tasty as they are, they’ll leave you with a nice headache the next day if you over do it. The less common varieties include Barbera, Durif and Mourvedre to name a few you might not know.
Anyway, I love a list so here are the red Australian wine varieties in alphabetical order:
- Barbera
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Durif
- Grenache
- Malbec
- Mataro/Mourvedre
- Merlot
- Muscat à Petits Grains Rouge
- Nero d’Avola
- Petit Verdot
- Pinot Noir
- Ruby Cabernet
- Sangiovese
- Shiraz
- Tempranillo
Whites
Everyone loves a chardy (read my blog on why you should love it here) and Australia is no exception with this varietal at the top of the grape growing list. But Sémillon is Australia’s pride and joy. Some white wines you may not know are Colombard, Marsanne and Viognier.
Here’s the line up of white Australian wine varieties:
- Chardonnay
- Chenin Blanc
- Colombard
- Marsanne
- Muscat à Petits Grains Blanc
- Pinot Gris (Grigio)
- Prosecco
- Riesling
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Semillon
- Traminer
- Verdelho
- Vermentino
- Viognier
So, which is your favourite out of these Australian wine varieties? It’s hard to pick from such a long list. Are there any you haven’t tried?
I’ve added Barbera, Durif, Colombard and Viognier list to be consumed in the very near future.
For the full report on Australian wine grape varieties and more info on their plantings, head to the Wine Australia website who are the true authority on wine grape growing, making, selling and exporting.
Cheers, Lorna
Looking for Australian wine regions? How about Hawkesbury? Or sail on down to Shoalhaven.
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