Maybe your idea of Australian wine is Yellow Tail, the massively successful, super-produced wine with a jumping kangaroo on the label. Or maybe you picture an in-your-face monster shiraz so thick and fruity you could practically sip it from a spoon. If you think those examples define Down Under wines, you couldn’t be more wrong. Australia’s fine wine scene is one of the world’s most exciting, dynamic, and diverse, with 65 regions growing more than 100 different varietals for nearly 3,000 wineries. A wave of young, avant-garde winemakers with hipster beards and daring ideas are experimenting with reds and whites all over the country and making excellent wines. Pét-Nat anyone? 

Pét-Nat of Chardonnay
Victoria, Australia

 

2015 Robert Oatley
Chardonnay
Margaret River, Australia

 

2016 Happs
Pinot Noir
Margaret River, Australia

 

2015 Point Ormond
Shiraz
Heathcote, Australia