New South Wales is Australia's oldest wine producer. With artificial irrigation the Shiraz grape makes light, spicy wines. The Chardonnay dominates white wine production.
Hunter Valley, New South Wales' best area, was plotted 1828. During the first half of the 20th century the area almost completely died out because of climatic difficulties. But many vintners were able to esstablish themselves with the help of Sydney. The vineyards have been growing since the 1990's and the production methods are improvig. Most vintners have a good feeling for quality.
The soils of most areas in New South Wales are fertile, but the exact conditions vary from area to area. In Australia's northernmost region the cliamte is so warm that artificial irrigation is necessary to let vines grow. New vineyards are being plotted on higher sites, where the climate and conditions are better.
Whether or not the wines from Shiraz grapes are strong or light and spicy depends on the vintner. The wines from Cabernet Sauvignon can at thei best show a Bordeaux elegance, but are usually not so important. Sémillon develop to classic dry wines after bottle-ripening. But wine production is dominated by Chardonnay production. The wines are buttery and fruity, with body and strength. Other vines grown here are Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer, and Riesling as well as Verdelho and Sauvignon Blanc.
Winery (selected) from Wine country New South Wales
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