Australia

Australia is home to many famous wine styles - Barossa Shiraz, Hunter Valley Semillon, Coonawarra Cabernet, Clare Valley Riesling, the Bordeaux-blends of Margaret River - that were revolutionary when they first appeared and are now firmly established classics. Their emergence rocked French winemaking, offering clean, well-made wine with plenty of body and fruit, easily understood labels and very fair prices. It took a while, but France has mostly learned the lessons Australia taught it and the influence is now flowing back the other way as Australian winemakers seek to put place and uniqueness at the top of their agendas. More and more, specific regions, districts and vineyards are appearing on labels alongside rediscovered grape varieties, and quality is rising everywhere. There’s never been a better time for lovers of quality, interesting wine to look to Australia.