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Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is the Yarra Valley's most widely planted red grape variety. Whilst a challenge to grow and make, Pinot Noir thrives in the Yarra's cool climate.
"Pinot Noir takes pride of place simply because the Yarra Valley has achieved more with this difficult variety than any other wine region in Australia. Slowly the essential nature of this grape is becoming better understood. While many wine drinkers dismiss it because it is so different to that of Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz, others appreciate its haunting delicacy and surprising length of flavour. For those who understand true Burgundy (typically domaine-bottled) the strawberry plum spectrum of fruit flavours to be found in the Yarra is very exciting." Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation
Pinot Noir also adds depth to the chardonnay component of some of the region's sparkling wine. Serve Yarra Valley Pinot Noir with duck, veal or new season lamb.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a late ripening variety, with flavours ranging from berry/chocolate to cedar/leathery. The variety is matured in French or American oak and sometimes blended with Merlot to flesh out the mid palate. The silky soft tannins of Yarra Valley Cabernet styles render them perfect to drink as younger wines – without detracting from ageing potential. Serve Yarra Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with rare roast beef or premium cheese.
Shiraz
Shiraz from the cool growing season of the Yarra Valley produces a style of great finesse. An array of flavours from pepper and spice to anise and plum can be savoured. Serve Yarra Valley Shiraz with game or beef.
Shiraz Viognier
Shiraz Viognier - following the tradition of the great wines of the Cote Rotie, Shiraz is sometimes blended with the white variety Viognier (usually no more than 5%) which imparts a musk, apricot, floral character to the wine.
Appropriate site selection is critical for Shiraz in the Yarra Valley. "The warm, north-facing slopes highly desirable are capable of producing intensely coloured and flavoured wines, redolent of black cherry spice and pepper. They are never too extracted or alcoholic and have those fine, silky Yarra Valley tannins." Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation
Other red varieties in the Yarra Valley
Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo. |
