age superbly. Not so much better or worse; just different. Mataro (or Mourvèdre if you prefer to be trendy) also has an important role here. Overall, the region is home to around 40 different varieties. That said, around 75% of production is red wine and the key five varieties – Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Riesling and Semillon – represent 97% of the region’s harvest. Neighbouring Eden Valley, established for nearly as long as the Barossa, with its higher altitude and much cooler climate, is most famous for its Riesling – the early influence of the German immigrants ensured that – but it is also home to some scintillating reds, especially gloriously elegant Shiraz. Think Hill of Grace and Mt Edelstone from Henschke as examples with some superb Cabernet as well. The Riesling from Eden Valley is world famous – full of citrus, especially limes and lemons, and floral notes, clean and pristine with great length, and in later years, toast and honey complexity. Among the wineries located in these two regions, in addition to those mentioned, are Charles Melton, Elderton, Yalumba, Seppeltsfield, Grant Burge, Tuesner, Kalleske, Jacob’s Creek, Saltram, Bethany, Langmeil, Gibson, Hentley Farm, Chateau Tanunda, Rockford, Peter Lehmann, Schild Estate, St Hallett, Head, Duval, Alkina, Spinifex, Torbreck, Heggies, Pewsey Vale and many more. Many are still in the hands of the founding families, sometimes operated by their sixth generation.
Stonewell Vineyard, Barossa Valley. Andrew Caillard MW, 1990s, oil on boards.
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The Vintage Journal – Regional Focus
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