There are more than 128 wine varieties grown globally. Many of these are grown in Australia and New Zealand with new varieties being trialed all the time.
The most prolific wine varieties grown in Australia are as follows:
Cabernet Sauvignon,
Chardonnay,
Grenache,
Merlot,
Pinot Noir,
Riesling,
Sauvignon Blanc,
Semillon,
Shiraz, .
Select information on wine varieties
Display all listings for Chardonnay With its origins in the Burgundy region of France, Chardonnay is arguably Australia's most important white variety as it is used to produce dry white wines along with being a key component in the production of sparkling wines. Some of Australia's finest Chardonnay producers are found in Western Australia's Margaret River along with the cool climate of Victoria's Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Valley regions.
Cool climate Chardonnay produces an abundance of fruit flavours which tend to be more in the peach, melon, apple and lemon spectrum. The warmer climate Chardonnays may have less of the fruits but develop wonderful honey, butterscotch, buttery and nutty oily flavours that fill the mouth.
Whilst there has been somewhat of a perceived backlash against Chardonnay in recent times, Australia's high quality examples are still in huge demand with the likes of Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay (at around $90 a bottle) always being snapped up very quickly. |
