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Shoalhaven Coast Wine Region – NSW

The Shoalhaven Coast wine region is a striking two and a half-hour drive south from Sydney via the M1. Or, take the coast road through the Royal National Park to take in spectacular views from Stanwell Tops and Bulli.

The wine-growing region stretches from Kiama in the north to Milton in the south, and west to Kangaroo Valley. The region has much more than just wine to offer. Enjoy the picturesque coastline, beaches, quaint towns and numerous cafe and bars it has to offer.

The region forms part of the South Coast wine zone, which it shares with the Southern Highlands wine region. It boasts around 16 cellar doors with a total production of 500 tonnes or approximately 400,000 bottles. Southern Highlands is best known for Chambourcin, a French red wine hybrid variety with vibrant colour and fresh plummy fruit aromas.

The region faces quite warm temperatures during the growing season. Obtaining the best outcomes is acheived from vineyards located on the north-facing slopes that are well-exposed, well-drained and well-ventilated.

Chardonnay is planted up and down the length of the Shoalhaven Coast and produces a pleasant, mid-weight wine with gentle peachy fruit flavours and a soft finish. Chambourcin constitutes the majority of the other red plantings in the region. It is a popular choice, being highly resistant to mildew, which can be a challenge in the region due to high rainfall. Chambourcin performs well in even the wettest summers.

Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon are often blended in this region and are available at most cellar doors. They produce soft, faintly earthy wines without having a particularly distinctive varietal character. With appropriate winery techniques, these are fresh, well-balanced, light-to medium-bodied wines best consumed while young.

You can find the key varietals at most cellar doors. Additionally, the region also produces a wide range of varieties including Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.

In recent years new exciting varieties have been planted and are now available for tasting at cellar doors. These new varieties include Viognier, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Arneis and Tannat.

Source: www.wineaustralia.com  www.nswwine.com.au, Photo Credit