Tracing
the Origins and history of this ‘non-native’ wine.
Australia
has been key player in the wine industry since the 16th century
when the first vineyards were introduced. Local Australian merchants
were not quick to become wine merchants due to their unfamiliarity
with the environment. However, the vintners’ perfected their
vineyards and wineries quickly, becoming globally competitive
by the mid to late 1800’s. Australian red wine was competing
(and wining) against French wines much to the dismay of France.
In one such instance, when it was revealed the wining wine was
Australian, the award was revoked on the grounds of suspected
fraud
Australian
wine merchants faced the devastating effects of an insect infestation
which destroyed the roots of the vineyards crops in the late 1800’s.
Since this time, the Australian wine regions have had a mix of
success and struggle. One great winery’s success story is
that of Yellow Tail. The Australian company has gained international
popularity, wine ratings, and sales. And by 2003, the winery was
the number one imported brand in America.
Approximately
half of all of the Australian vineyards and wine regions are located
in the small state of South Australia. This area is rich in wine
merchants and vineyards in spite of the need for constant irrigation.
The complex soil, extreme heat, and cool ocean breeze blend to
offer some of the finest wines from Australia. Wine recommendations
are frequently heard for the exceptional vineyards of this wine
region.
Australian
wineries and the landscapes they are situated on offer a unique
and rich bouquet comparable to few other places. A rich red wine
or a sweet white; no matter what you decide - a treat.
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