Good old Australia. Number one in the world for swimming, netball, cricket and they are also topping the rankings in the world of wine. Australia sold over £1 billion pounds of wine in the UK in 2009, extending its lead on its nearest rival, the USA, which sold a mere £764 million (Off Licence News Wine Report 2010).
Even with these fantastic results, the Australian wine industry is in a debacle. Its share of the UK market is in slight decline and there is a pool of wine from previous vintages, sitting in Australian wineries, awaiting a home.
This wine pool would be easily swallowed up by the major UK supermarkets, however they would command low prices, allowing them to sell the wines on massive promotions. Australia is trying to alter its reputation from being the one trick promotion pony, so for the time being the wine pool will stay put.
Wine Australia - the corporation that promotes Australia's wine to the world - is trying to get wine lovers in love with the idea of regional, quality, Australian wine. It is not sustainable to sell most of Australia's wine on promotion. With the UK consumer becoming accustomed to seeing brands - such as Jacobs Creek and Hardy's - on half price deals, it will become increasingly difficult to sell Australian wine at full price.
We've all gone down the Australian chardonnay and shiraz road. With the results reminiscent of chewing on an oak barrel and / or tinting our teeth a vivid purple hue. Allow me to let you in on some fabulous news - there are some amazing Australian wines out there that are a taste sensation and won't break the bank. Coming from a New Zealander, this news should be taken seriously.
Majestic has a great offering, including The Parcel Series Sauvignon-Semillon from Margaret River (£5.99 each when you buy two as part of a mixed case). This wine 'explodes with citrus and tropical notes on the nose, with nuances of passion fruit and jasmine'.
If you're a fan of crisp, dry riesling's, try the Knappstein Riesling from Clare Valley which has a beautiful floral nose with citrus - especially lime - coming out on the palate. At only £6.99 (when you buy two bottles as part of a mixed case) this wine is a bargain and would be great as an aperitif for Christmas.
These wines are examples of some of the regional gems that Australia has to offer. The trick is to explore what is out there. It's amazing the extra quality and personality you can find in a wine through looking outside the major supermarkets.
I know I will be indulging in a few Aussie gems over Christmas - I hope you do too!
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