Through awards, accolades and glowing reviews from the world’s top critics, South Australian wines are known to be formidable
Through awards, accolades and glowing reviews from the world’s top critics, South Australian wines are known to be formidable
South Australia is widely recognised as the birthplace of Australian wines. Through awards, accolades and glowing reviews from the world’s top critics, South Australian wines are known to be formidable. Now the state’s standing has been cemented further as Adelaide has become a Great Wine Capital of the world this month. The exclusive network acknowledges cities where wine regions are a leading economic and cultural asset.
There are more than 200 cellar doors within an hour’s drive from Adelaide; some boutique, whereas some are headquarters for significant national and global brands. Penfolds Chief Winemaker and Premium Food and Wine from our Clean Environment ambassador Peter Gago said that Adelaide deserved to be a Great Wine Capital.
“It’s exciting and timely to witness Adelaide joining such a well-respected global wine network. I believe our South Australian wine and food industries and culture will benefit greatly from the opportunities this will create – now and into the future,” said Gago.
Adelaide was invited to join San Francisco/Napa valley (US), Bordeaux (France), Bilbao/Rioja (Spain), Cape Town (South Africa), Mainz/Rheinhessen (Germany), Mendoza (Argentina), Porto (Portugal) and Valparaiso/Casablanca Valley (Chile) as a Great Wine Capital.
Tasting Australia’s creative director Paul Henry expressed that South Australian wines were not only among Australia’s best, but were world class. Henry said, “South Australia is blessed to have such a rich history of wine-growing and winemaking, and that reputation is not about to be dulled. Winemakers throughout the Barossa are happy to report that the 2016 vintage is set to be exceptional.”
A dry winter and spring before a mild summer ensured that the grape vines were protected from stress and subject to closer monitoring from grape growers. This is believed to have led to consistent, even fruit on the vine, making a high volume of grapes available for harvest.
