The wines coming out of the Barossa Valley wine region are world-famous, especially the Shiraz and Riesling varieties. The New York Times listed the area as one of the 53 places to go in 2008 – not just for the wine, but also for the arts and outdoor adventures that visitors can enjoy there. The wines of the Barossa, along with the excellent food on offer at the reputable restaurants, make it one of the most popular wine destinations in South Australia.
Rich history
The first vineyards were planted by rich Englishmen with an interest in wine. They were joined in the business by Lutherans who were forced to flee persecution in their native Germany. There was already a thriving German community in the area engaged in farming. After one of the German mineral experts announced that the land was suitable for wine cultivation, the new arrivals began tending vineyards in earnest. Today, the Barossa Valley is home to some of the oldest Shiraz vineyards in the world, a grape type that still flourishes in the area.
Climate and geography
Located just 60km from Adelaide, the Barossa Valley is formed by the North Para River. It is divided into two sub-regions, Lyndoch (up to and including Kalimna) and the Eden Valley. The soil varies between loamy clay in the west, limestone slopes in the Eden Valley and rich, fertile soil on the floor of the valley. Barossa Valley enjoys a Mediterranean climate with cool, rainy winter and hot dry summers.
Wines of the region
The Barossa Valley is best known for its rich, velvety Shiraz wines, some of them produced in the oldest vineyards in the world. They’re famous as the main ingredient in Penfolds Grange, Australia’s most famous red wine. Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Semillon, Riesling and Chardonnay also grow well in the Barossa Valley.
Wineries
Boutique Wineries brings you the best of Barossa with a selection of wonderful wines from the region. Kalleske Wines makes a great Grenache Shiraz blend, and the Cabernet Sauvignon from Rosenvale Wines is certainly worth trying.
You’ll find more wineries from Barossa Valley wine region by clicking here: Wineries from Barossa Valley
Visit these boutique wineries to grow your knowledge of boutique wine and boutique wineries:
