Australian Wine Regions

Pipers River & Tamar Valley | Tasmania

It is a little known fact that Tasmania is the oldest wine-producing region in Australia. Pipers River is Tasmania’s northernmost wine region, with the river flowing from Mount Arthur northwards into the Bass Strait, with the more fertile Tamar Valley neighbouring it to the west. Consequently, the Pipers River is often grouped in with Tamar Valley – nevertheless,  Tasmanian wine connoisseurs hold the Pipers River name in high regard.

The climate here is a massive factor in the quality of the wines, and Pipers River has high sunshine hours, making it excellent for viticulture. Cool winds from the Bass Strait keep temperatures moderated in the sunny vineyards, providing a long, reasonably fantastic growing season. In addition, the soil is made up of alluvial deposits from the Bass Strait, which are rich in minerals that help produce high-quality grapes.

The cool climate is ideal for growing Pinot Noir, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. These three varieties are used in most Pipers River wines, and the resulting wines are often stunning. The Pinot Noirs are light, elegant and fruity with a slight hint of oak. Rieslings have crisp acidity and a delicious honey flavour – they are perfect for pairing with Asian cuisine, especially Thai flavours. Sauvignon Blancs are rich in tropical fruit flavours with a slight grassy note; they go particularly well with seafood and fish dishes.

The biggest name in Pipers River wine is our winery Russell & Suitor; our wines have won many awards at various wine shows throughout Australia, 

The Russell & Suitor vineyard produces premium wines – their flagship wine, a Sauvignon Blanc, was awarded 96 points by James Halliday in his Australian Wine Companion Guide – it is possibly one of the best Sauvignon Blancs in Australia!

 

 

Riverland | South Australia

The Riverland in South Australia is a long-established, warm climate wine producing region, located east of the Barossa Valley, a 2½ hour drive north east of Adelaide. It is distinctly unique and offers an environment and landscape like no other, - no surprise it is now the largest wine growing region in Australia.

The Riverland's history is strongly linked to irrigation and the area's suitability for growing vines. The region enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate and has vast acres of fertile soil and a readily available water source in the Murray River.

This area is also recognised for its unique style development of alternative wines that are full-flavoured, generous and approachable. New varieties are explored and high quality and delicious wines of south Mediterranean origins are produced here.

 

Mildura | Victoria
 

The first grape varieties were planted here in 1888, producing the first vintage in 1891. These pioneering  wines were well received by the colonies and commenced a regional wine industry that has grown to become one of the most substantial in Australia.

The climate has long hours of sunshine, low humidity and low rainfall, making irrigation essential. The soil is unique to the Murray River system but overall, supports vigorous growth and high grape yields.

The region is known for its Chardonnay, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. New and emerging varieties include Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Pinot Gris, and Vermentino.