Great Southern Wine Region

The Great Southern wine region is Australia's largest wine-growing district, spanning 200 kilometers east to west and more than 100 kilometers north to south. The area is rich in natural variations and divergence, threat and magnificence, uniqueness, and individuality. The region's geography is varied, featuring rolling green hills, a coastal front, pristine protected areas, countryside towns and villages, mountain peaks, and plenty of agricultural lands. The Great Southern wine region was an experimental forefront for modern winemaking in Australia, distinguished by creative Australian winemaking evolution. Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and Malbec are all famous in this wonderful region.

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Where is the Great Southern wine region?

The Great Southern wine region is the heart of Western Australia, surrounded by a turquoise sea and comprised of coastal cliffs, national parks, mountain ranges, and endless farmland. The region is home to some of the world's most endangered flora and fauna. The Great Southern wine area is further subdivided into five sub-regions: Albany, Denmark, Frankland River, Mount Barker, and Porongurup, each producing distinct high-quality wines. From Perth, the Great Southern wine area is around four hours away. The Great Southern wine region is located in Western Australia's eastern and southernmost regions. Pemberton, Blackwood Valley, and Manjimup are west of the Great Southern wine region.

History of the Great Southern wine region

George Egerton-Warburton planted the first grapes in the Great Southern wine area in 1859, producing his first vintage in 1861. Bill Jamieson, a horticulture by trade, began commercial viticulture in the late 1930s. Bill and Harold Olmo, a Canadian professor, planted experimental cuttings around Forest Hill near Mount Barker in 1965, and Riesling wines were made from the same vineyard in 1972. With their distinct terroir and imaginative winemakers, Great Southern wines quickly became well-known throughout Australia, winning numerous honors at wine festivals. In 1996, the region was designated as an Australian Geographical Indication Zone.

The terroir and geography of the Great Southern wine region

The Great Southern wine region's topology is highly diverse, with a huge landmass. The region has Mediterranean, maritime, and continental influences and is Western Australia's coolest wine region. Rainfall and humidity rise to the south, while temperatures climb inland to the north. The soil varies throughout such a large area, although it is generally lateritic gravelly and sandy loams formed from granite bedrock. Several rivers run through the area, providing irrigation for the vineyards. From the rocky cliffs to the tranquil coast, the location is breathtaking and a must-see for nature lovers.

Popular grape varieties from the Great Southern wine region

The principal grape varieties grown in the Great Southern wine area include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Merlot, and Shiraz. The region's primary focus is on cool-climate grapes such as Riesling and Pinot Noir. Shiraz wines from the Great Southern wine area are distinctive, with earthy, peppery aromas reminiscent of northern Rhone wines. The wine is aged in Australian oak, which is distinct from American oak, which imparts flavors of vanilla, tobacco, and leather.

Food to pair with Great Southern wine 

Bacon 

Bacon is a popular food that has been around for centuries. It is made from the meat of an animal, usually a pig, which is cured and then usually smoked. Bacon is one of the most popular breakfast foods in America and in many other countries. Bacon is a type of cured meat that is prepared from pork and is usually eaten either crispy or soft. Bacon is most often fried or baked and is eaten on its own, as a side dish, or used as an ingredient in other dishes. Pair Shiraz wines from the Great Southern wine region with Bacon for an amazing experience. 

Pork Tacos Steak Burgers

Pork tacos are a Mexican dish consisting of a corn tortilla that is filled with meat and fried onions, cilantro, salsa, and avocado. This popular  Mexican dish consists of a corn tortilla that is filled with meat and fried onions, cilantro, salsa, and avocado. This dish is commonly served in a taco stand or as street food. Pork tacos are traditionally eaten as an appetizer or snack in Mexico. They are also a popular street food in Mexico City and other parts of Central America. In the United States, the dish is often served with a variety of toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and sour cream.

Steak Burgers

Steakburgers are different than regular burgers in that they're made with ground beef and chopped steak. And if you want to get really into the nitty-gritty, there are two types of steak burgers: those made with ground beef and those made with chopped steak. But what really separates the two is how they're cooked. Ground beef steaks are best cooked on a griddle or in a pan where the heat is dispersed evenly across the meat, allowing for even cooking throughout the patty and preventing any overcooking on one side of it while undercooking on another side of it. Steakburgers are a great way to enjoy the taste of meat without feeling guilty. Pair it up with some of the best wines from the Great Southern wine region. 

Places to visit in the Great Southern wine region

Porongurup National Park

Porongurup National park is a fascinating natural environment comprising ancient geology, unique bushland, abundant wildlife, and the cultural heritage of the Menang people who are the traditional owners of the park. The park encompasses 26.21sq km and is located 359km southeast of Perth and 38km north of Albany. The park is home to several peaks and hiking trails with the highest point being the Devil's slide at 670 meters which has become the major destination within the park. The view from the top of this boulder is majestic with a 360-degree view.

Margaret River Tourist Park

Centered around the Margaret river of Western Australia, the Margaret River tourist park offers one of the stunning countryside settings that suit all visitors. Other attraction of the park includes caves, a swimming pool, coastal lines, surfing, hiking trails, mountain biking, and boating. Accommodation is available all year round which is budget friendly and perfect for small families and couples. Immerse in the beautiful scenic landscape of the area. The area is home to some of the best wineries, breweries, and organic food producers. 

Dunsborough

Dunsborough is a coastal town tucked at the bottom of Australia offering some pristine beaches and crystalline turquoise waters. Relax in these refined coastal towns which are just 3 hour drive from Perth. You can also reach Dunsborough via Busselton airport which will take just 30 minutes drive. The beaches of this coastal town have gained immense popularity and were mentioned as the No.1 destination in the Asia Pacific in 2019.

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Frequently asked questions about Great Southern