Michael Hill Smith AM MW was the man in the hot seat (actually a chilly 12 degrees in the Barossa) this afternoon. Charged with introducing everyone to some of Australia’s ‘classic’ regional styles and set the scene for the varietal masterclasses taking place over the next four days, Michael started by telling the group “Australia has wonderful Regional Classics – wines where region and grape combine to produce a style that has uniqueness and international relevance.”
Riesling, Semillon, Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and a ‘sticky’ were all tasted and talked about, the discussion centring around the identifiable characteristics from each of these regional styles.
Australia has many more regional classics, so remember this was just an introduction, and we only let Michael nominate 14 wines! Those who are eager to know what some of the other classis are can look out for Grenache from McLaren Vale wineries as well as Grenache blends such as GSMs. Click here to find out more about Australia’s wine regions, classic styles and enjoy a virtual tasting.
WINES - Australia’s Regional Classics Masterclass
- 2008 Grosset Wines Polish Hill Riesling, Clare Valley
- 2002 Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling, Eden Valley
- 1998 Tyrrell’s Wines Vat 1 Semillon, Hunter
- 2005 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay, Margaret River
- 2006 Petaluma Piccadilly Valley Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills
- 2006 By Farr Sangreal Pinot Noir, Geelong
- 2001 Cullen Wines Diana Madeline Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot, Margaret River
- 2004 Wynns Coonawarra Estate John Riddoch, Cabernet Sauvignon
- 1998 Brokenwood Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz, Hunter
- 2004 Mt Langi Ghiran Langi Shiraz, Grampians
- 2006 Henshcke Mt Eldestone Shiraz, Eden Valley
- 2004 Penfolds RWT Shiraz, Barossa Valley
- 2006 Glaetzer Anaperenna Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa Valley
- 2006 De Bortoli Noble One Botrytis Semillon, Riverina
Quote of the day: “The thing about Australian Riesling is that tenacity and belief in our style will ultimately overcome fashion. Riesling will have its day!” - Michael Hill Smith
