Australia Flashcards
Describe the general location and climate categories of Australia’s most important wine regions. How does the climate vary between the interior and coastal areas?
Australia’s most important wine regions are located in the southern hemisphere, covering a landmass roughly the size of the continental United States. The climate varies from hot and dry in the interior to cooler near the coast, with cool maritime, warm Mediterranean, and hot arid climates.
Name the principal grape varieties used in Australian winemaking. How does the concept of blending across regions contribute to the diversity of Australian wines?
Principal grape varieties used in Australian winemaking include Shiraz, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon blend, and Semillon (Hunter). Blending across regions contributes to the diversity of Australian wines by allowing winemakers to achieve desired flavor profiles and balance.
Explain the significance of Geographic Indications (GIs) in Australian wine labeling. What is the difference between a Zone and a Region in the Australian appellation system?
Geographic Indications (GIs) in Australian wine labeling indicate the geographical origin of the wine. Zones and Regions are classifications within the Australian appellation system, with Regions being more specific. South Eastern Australia is a Super GI known for high-volume wine production.
Define the term “Superzone” in the context of Australian wine labeling. How does this classification system contribute to understanding the style of Australian wines?
a “Superzone” refers to a large-scale geographic area known for high-volume wine production. It encompasses multiple regions and sub-regions within the country, allowing for the production of a wide variety of wines. One example of a Superzone in Australian wine labeling is “South Eastern Australia.” This Superzone encompasses several states, including New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Queensland. Wines labeled as originating from South Eastern Australia often represent a diverse range of grape varieties and winemaking styles. They are typically produced in large quantities and are widely available both domestically and internationally
Discuss the historical evolution of the Australian wine industry, including key milestones such as the first vine plantings, the impact of phylloxera, and the shift from fortified wines to table wines.
The Australian wine industry dates back to the late 18th century, with the first vine plantings near Sydney in 1788. The industry shifted westward after the phylloxera outbreak, and sweet/fortified wines dominated until the late 20th century. Key milestones include the purchase of a French company that invented the Stelvin closure and the Yellow Tail business model.
What are some food pairing recommendations for ripe Shiraz wines from Australia? How does the style of Australian Riesling compare to New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc?
Ripe Shiraz wines from Australia pair well with intense grilled or barbecued meat dishes. Clare or Eden Riesling can be likened to New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc in terms of flavor profile and food pairing versatility.
Name the GIs associated with South Australia and list the sub-regions within each GI. How does the climate vary among these sub-regions?
South Australia GI encompasses several sub-regions, including Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Clare Valley, Eden Valley, and Coonawarra. Each sub-region has its own unique climate and terroir, influencing the style of wines produced.
Name two iconic producers from the Barossa Valley GI and describe the style of wines they are known for producing.
Iconic producers from the Barossa Valley GI include Penfolds and Henschke. Penfolds is known for its flagship wine, Grange, while Henschke produces high-quality Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon wines.
Explain how elevation and currents from Antarctica influence the climate of South Australia. How does this impact grape growing and wine production in the region?
Elevation and currents from Antarctica influence the climate of South Australia, with cooler temperatures near the coast and warmer temperatures inland. This influences grape growing and wine production, with the best vineyards located near the cooler coast.
Difference between Barossa and McLaren Shiraz
Barossa tend to showcase ripe fruit flavors with a touch of eucalyptus while McLaren Vale offers a slightly more elegant profile on dark berry characteristics and a district regional earthiness.
What style of wine is Coonawarra known for?
Coonawarra produces Australia best Cabernet Sauvignon defined by elegance, soft tannins, red frit and telltale eucalyptus
Which GI are these Australian state located.
Margaret River
Hunter Valley
McLaren Vale
Yarra Valley
Margaret River Western Australia
Hunter Valley New South Wales
McLaren Vale South Australia
Yarra Valley Victoria
Which states are at least partially included in the Southeast Australia Multistate Zone? (Select all that apply)
New South Wales
South Australia
Western Australia
Victoria
Queensland
Northern Territory
Tasmania
New South Wales
South Australia
Victoria
Queensland
Tasmania
Order the following wine regions from west to east (1 = westernmost, 4 = easternmost).
Hunter
Select a Match
Margaret River
Select a Match
Barossa Valley
Select a Match
Yarra Valley
Margaret River
Barossa Valley
Yarra Valley
Hunter
Which Australian state is most famous for its sparkling wines?
Victoria
Queensland
New South Wales
Tasmania
Tasmania
