Although mostly famous for its reds (especially Shiraz), Australia has many different styles of wine on offer beyond the ubiquitous cheeky mass-produced critter labels. Some of the world’s great expressions of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and more come from the land down under. In this class, we will explore the breadth and depth of the wines from this vast country, including the South Australian regions of McLaren Vale, Clare Valley, and Eden Valley (their dry Riesling whites are known for clarity and precision). That’s just the beginning. The mountainous Hunter Valley in New South Wales is known for its aging-worthy Semillon, the cool-climate Yarra Valley in Victoria for its elegant Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and the oceanic-climate Margaret River region in Western Australia for its Bordeaux-inspired Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon blends. The island state of Tasmania is the place to go, for traditional-method sparkling wines – just like those created in the Champagne region. |