Introduction to Australia, Wednesday 6th November 2024

Vineyards were established in Australia over two centuries ago, and while it is now well regarded as a powerhouse producer in the New World, the diversity, quality and ageworthiness of its very best wines is still greatly underappreciated. 

With this introductory tasting, we will delve into some of the classics such as bold yet balanced Shiraz from South Australia and sun-kissed yet elegant Chardonnay from the Margaret River but will also venture into lesser-known regions where the growing conditions are radically different, such as Beechworth and the Mornington Peninsula. Australia is not just about the big and the powerful reds, and our aim with this tasting is to show you just what a complex and dynamic winemaking landscape it is. The tasting will conclude with a rare opportunity to taste a true Australian icon – Penfolds Grange – aged for two decades in magnum. 

Wines to be tasted: 

Apéritif: 2022 Berry Bros. & Rudd Australian Chardonnay by Frankland Estate, Frankland River 

2023 Grosset, Springvale Riesling, Clare Valley 

2015 Tyrrell's HVD Single Vineyard Semillon, Hunter Valley 

2019 Circe, Hillcrest Road Chardonnay, Mornington Peninsula 

2019 Leeuwin Estate, Art Series Chardonnay, Margaret River 

2019 Circe, Hillcrest Road Pinot Noir, Mornington Peninsula 

2019 Giaconda, Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir, Beechworth 

2019 Cullen, Diana Madeline, Margaret River 

2019 Torbreck, The Gask, Eden Valley 

2019 Clonakilla, Shiraz Viognier, Canberra District 

2020 Hewitson, Old Garden, Mourvèdre, Barossa Valley 

2003 Penfolds, Grange, Bin 95, Australia (Museum Stock) from magnum 

Dress code: smart casual