Australia Flashcards
Which two oceans bracket Australia
Indian Ocean
Pacific Ocean
What state is home to Australia’s first vines and when were they planted
New South Wales
(late 18th century)
When was commercial viticulture established across southern Australia
1820s-1840s
Until the late 20th century, what style of wine was Australia known for
Bulk cheap sweet wines from the interior of the country
Where in Australia are most wine regions located
Southeastern corner of the island
Why is viticulture not practiced in the center of Australia
The climate is too hot and arid to support vines
What are the consequences of the hot dry climate in Australia in relation to grape ripening
High levels of ripeness can lead to a lack of natural acidity in grapes
What ultra-premium Australian wine is a blend of grapes across multiple appellation
Penfold’s Grange
Why are grapes generally harvested at night in Australia
To preserve freshness and natural acidity in grapes
What is the appellation system used in Australia
Geographical Indications (GIs)
What is the hierarchy of Australian GIs from largest to smallest
- Country (Anywhere in Australia)
- Southeastern Australia
- State of Origin
- Zones (can cross states)
- Regions
- Sub-regions
What is Australia’s minimum requirement for grape, vintage, and region if stated on the label
85%
What 5 states are included in the Southeastern Australia GI superzone
- Tasmania
- Victoria
- South Australia
- New South Wales
- Queensland
What mountain range separates the wetter coastal areas of New South Wales with the warm interior
The Great Diving Range
What is the capital of New South Wales
Sydney
What is the famous sub-region within New South Wales
Hunter Valley
What is the climate of New South Wales
Subtropical and wet on eastern side of the Great Dividing Range
Dry and arid west of the Great Diving Range
What are the two most important GIs of New South Wales
- Hunter Valley GI
- Riverina GI
What is the climate of Hunter Valley GI
Subtropical
What is the topography of Hunter Valley GI
Flat gentle river valley
What are the 3 primary grapes of Hunter Valley GI
Semillon
Shiraz
Cabernet Sauvignon
Where is Riverina GI located
New South Wales, west of the Great Diving Range
What is the climate of Riverina
Hot, humid
What style of wine is produced in Riverina GI
Bulk wine
What percentage of Australia’s total wine output originates in Riverina
25%