Barossa Wine

There's a bit of good planning in there too, of course, and settling in a region with ideal soils and a superb climate for viticulture was a great start. The traditions of grape growing and winemaking dominate our economy today. More than 20 per cent of Australia's wine is made in the Barossa. The backbone of it all is the grapes and the people who grow them. More than 600 grape growers, some fifth and sixth generation Barossa families, supply more than 65,000 tonnes of premium Barossa grapes to wineries each vintage.

The region's flagship wines are Barossa Shiraz and Eden Valley Riesling. The product of two distinct zones - the warm, low-lying Barossa Valley and the higher, cool-climate Eden Valley - these are the styles that have put us on the world map.

The Barossa has the world's oldest Shiraz vineyards, some dating back to the 1840s. Perfectly suited to the region's climate and soil, they produce incredibly complex wines, rich and full-bodied, but with soft tannins. It's a style no other region can match, and through iconic wines such as the legendary Penfolds Grange and Henschke's Hill of Grace, Barossa Shiraz has made an indelible mark on the international wine scene.

In contrast, Eden Valley Riesling is elegant and crisp, reflecting the cool climate and stony soil of the high vineyards. Its hallmark soft citrus bouquet, rich lime fruit palate combined with great acid structure make Eden Valley Riesling a stand-alone regional varietal, and one of Australia's classic wine styles.

There are plenty of wine experiences beyond the cellar door too:

• Blend your own Penfold's wine

• Take a tutored tasting at Wolf Blass

• Tour historic Seppelt or Langmeil wineries

• Take a masterclass at Two Hands Wines

• Try your hand at croquet at Château Tanunda
  
  
• Discover the Barossa's thriving and distinctive food and wine culture on the Butcher, Baker,Winemaker Trail and the Trail Card