The 5 Most Popular Wines in Australia
Only true wine aficionados can say a lot about wines and the art of drinking wine. However, we cannot dismiss wine’s rich history that’s why there’s so much to discover and learn when people talk about this subject. From its origins, grape varieties and different winemaking processes to its aroma, flavour and food pairing, one can never run out of things to talk about wine.
Wine consumption in Australia
Australians generally have a love for wine, and it has become an integral part of the country's culture and social scene. Wine consumption in Australia has been steadily increasing over the past decade. According to the International Wine and Spirit Record (IWSR), wine consumption in Australia increased to 29.6 litres per annum in 2016. In addition, Statista reported that Australia ranks fifth just behind the traditional wine-producing countries Italy, France, and Spain in global wine production.
Further, Australia is known for its red varieties such as Shiraz, Cabernet, Sauvignon and Merlot as well as the white varieties Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. According to Wine Australia’s 2019 report, the top five most popular wine varieties in terms of volume sales in Australia are:
Some of Australia's most famous Shiraz wines come from the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Hunter Valley regions. It is often characterised by bold fruit flavours, with notes of blackberry, black cherry, and plum, as well as hints of pepper, vanilla, and oak. Shiraz is a good match for hearty dishes like grilled meats, stews, and strong cheeses.
From Popsy & JJ’s wine collection, try:
Chardonnay is a white grape variety that is grown in many regions across Australia, including the cooler climates of Tasmania, the Yarra Valley, and the Adelaide Hills, as well as the warmer regions of Margaret River and the Hunter Valley. It is known for its rich, full-bodied style, with flavours of ripe tropical fruit, melon, and citrus, as well as notes of vanilla and buttery oak. It is versatile and can pair well with a wide range of foods, including seafood, chicken, and pasta dishes.
From Popsy & JJ’s wine collection, try:
Cabernet Sauvignon’s grape variety is grown in many regions across Australia, including the Coonawarra, Margaret River, and the Barossa Valley. It has dark fruit flavours, including blackcurrant, blackberry, and black cherry, as well as notes of mint, eucalyptus, and cedar. It can pair well with rich and flavourful dishes such as grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and strong cheeses
From Popsy & JJ’s wine collection, try:
Australian Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine variety that is known for its crisp, refreshing style and vibrant fruit flavours. The grape variety is grown in many regions across Australia, including the Adelaide Hills, Margaret River, and the Yarra Valley. This wine is typically characterized by its citrus and tropical fruit aromas, with notes of grapefruit, passionfruit, and lime. It can also pair well with a variety of foods, including seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes.
From Popsy & JJ’s wine collection, try:
Pinot Gris/Grigio is known for its light and crisp style with delicate fruit flavours and refreshing acidity. The grape variety is grown in many regions across Australia, including the Adelaide Hills, the Yarra Valley, and Tasmania. Food pairing suggestions for this wine include grilled shrimp, lobster, or scallops and salads with light dressings, such as Caesar salad, green salad, or a fruit salad as well as spicy dishes.
Looking for trusted wine reviews online?
Popsy & JJ is Australia’s most trusted reviewer of wines from across the globe. The Popsy & JJ online store houses a curated selection of European wines that cannot be found in Australia. Keep an eye on Popsy & JJ for more champagne reviews and exclusive wine sales at great prices!