We drink more wine from Australia than from any other country. In 2016 we got through an astonishing 300m bottles — even more than we drank from the United States and France, according to the most recent figures from the Wine and Spirits Trade Association.
Australia is a vast country, with varying climates, and its wines come in a huge range of styles. Lately, the country has made enormous strides in the fine wine market — bottles that cost £15 and upwards — and the quality has never been better.
This week, I urge you to save your pennies and trade up, because there are some truly fascinating wines to sample. It’s little wonder we drink so many.
2014 Robert Oatley Cabernet Sauvignon
Co-op, £10
Margaret River
Great value for money, this is packed full of ripe blackcurrant, but doesn’t overwhelm with too much alcohol. About as elegant a Margaret River cabernet sauvignon as you can get your hands on in this price bracket.
2014 Cullen Mangan Vineyard Semillon
Oz Wines, £22
Margaret River
Vanya Cullen has been farming her family estate since 1983 and is one of the most sought-after producers in Australia. Her sensational semillon abounds with citrus and floral aromas, with a long and dry finish.
2011 Tyrrell’s Vat 1 Hunter Semillon
Wine Direct, £32
Hunter Valley
I have long been a fan of Bruce Tyrrell’s fresh, racy semillon. Subtle top notes of lime and citrus combine with lively acidity and it finishes deftly, dry and clean. This wine will improve with age for many years.
2014 Moss Wood Cabernet Sauvignon
Jeroboams, £59
Margaret River
One of the priciest Australian wines I’ve recommended, but Moss Wood is an all-time great. Deep, velvety red in the glass, with notes of blueberries, blackberries and violets, it has a rich, generous mouthfeel.
