Australia has been producing wine since the late
1700's when the first vine cuttings were brought to the continent.
Early attempts failed because of poor choices in soil, but eventually
growers found suitable areas in the southern Barossa Valley and
Victoria. Fortified wine was still the mainstay until the 1970's,
when technological improvements made finer wine methods possible.
Today Australia boasts over 1000 wineries, many producing award-winning
wines, primarily Cabernet, Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.
New Zealand is blessed with a diverse range of
soil types and climate that in the northern hemisphere would be
mirrored by the area spanning from Bordeaux to southern Spain. Already
recognised for their remarkable Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand producers
are also developing some fine Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot
Noir, and sparkling wines.
Main Wine stocks a nice selection of wines from
"down under", and will keep on eye on new releases from
the area. Contact us to see what's new. |
