The Secret Behind Barossa Shiraz
The Barossa is primarily known for its red wine, in particular Shiraz (Syrah). Large proportions of Barossa Shiraz is used in Penfolds Grange (Australia’s most famous wine). Henschke Hill of Grace, another high profile Australian wine, also uses Barossa Shiraz in its production.
The Barossa is situated about an hours drive north of Adelaide. The Barossa is made up of two different regions – the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley.
The Barossa Valley is generally less than 400 metres above sea-level and stretches from Williamstown in the south to Kapunda and Truro in the north. The red-brown soils are more fertile than those of the Eden Valley but rainfall here can be up to 50% less. The temperatures in the Barossa are usually 2ºC warmer than the surrounding regions.
The Eden Valley region starts from the north at Truro and goes all the way south, down to Mount Pleasant. On average the land ranges from about 400 to 600 metres above sea level with a majority of the wine growing land located in the higher sections of land. Soils are rocky and acidic and winter rainfall is plentiful, averaging 255mm more per annum than the Barossa Valley. Temperatures are cooler therefore the growing season is longer.
When this is all added together, you end up with a great concoction for grape growing!
There are about 550 growers in the Barossa, some of them sixth-generation Barossans. When combined, the total growing area is over 8,000 hectares which yields around 55,000 tonnes of grapes each season.
The Barossa has remained phylloxera free since growing first started here. This has allowed most of the wineries in the area to keep their original root stocks and has some of the worlds oldest vines.
Even though the Barossa represents about 5% of Australia’s national crush, the fruit produced is premium quality. The history of the Barossa and its disproportionate presence in the super-premium categories make it Australia’s most influential and internationally recognized wine region.
No wonder Barossa Shiraz is revered around the world.
Follow the link for more information on Barossa Valley Shiraz .