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AUstralia

Wine Facts

While there is evidence that Australia first planted grapes back in 1791, it wasn’t until the 1820’s that early set established vineyards in New South Wales, Western Australia and finally in South Australia. Australia had no native grape varieties suitable for wine-making. grapes were imported from Europe and much the wine produced was shipped back to the United Kingdom.

The gold rush of the 1850’s brought many prospectors to Australia and shortly thereafter their industry began to flourish. Exports of Australian wines to England increased dramatically during the period 1863-85. The early 1900’s saw the establishment of larger corporations like Mc Williams and soon after them, Penfolds and Seppelt. After the First World War, vines were planted in various soldier settlements which temporarily increased production.

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Overproduction, and consequently lower prices for some grape varieties, meant that some vineyards couldn't compete and many vineyards lapsed. In 1925, the British government allowed preferential duty for Empire wines, which meant that Australia could economically export fortified this further stimulated the industry.

During World War Two, exports to Britain practically ceased but resumed on a smaller scale after the war. By the 1950s, the wine industry was thriving in Australia, with South Australia center of production. The end of the Second World War saw an influx of European immigrants, bringing new skills in wine production. As new techniques were introduced and developed, and as Australians gained a taste for the newer, finer wines, wine consumption in Australia grew rapidly.

From the mid-1970's on, Australia's love affair with wine has continued to grow. The industry is stronger than ever, employing thousands, many of whom have completed one of the viticulture courses offered at Australian educational institutions. Small boutique wineries have been established throughout Australia, often by retirees or people wanting to escape city life. Australia's wine industry has become more than just another industry it has become a lifestyle for many Australians and winery tours a must for tourists.

Australia is such a large country that almost every climate and soil type can be found. This means that they are able to produce all of the major wine types, from red to white, fortified (such as port), and sweet to sparkling wines.

It also has some of the oldest grape vines in the world. Many of Europe's established vineyards were destroyed in the 1800s with the only survivors being the vines brought to Australia.

Australia Wine Regions

Australia Wine Regions

Australia Wineries

Greenock Creek – Barossa, Australia

NEWBLOOD – Riverina, Australia

Nugan Estate – Riverina, Australia 

Rieslingfreak – South Australia

RL Buller – Rutherglen, Australia

Oliverhill – McLaren Vale, Australia

Tait – Barossa, Australia

Thistledown – Barossa & McLaren Vale, Australia

Water Wheel – Bendigo, Australia

Wildberry Estate – Margaret River, Australia