Wrattonbully, a small and lesser-known wine region, is located in the famous Limestone Coast zone of South Australia. Despite of the above fact, a wine connoisseur would never want to miss upon a bottle from here for the fact that, this lesser-known land is bordered by the world-renowned Coonawarra wine region along with Padthaway which in itself says in abundance about its quality. The premium region houses about 50 grape growers, 20 wineries and a lot more…
The Rich History
This picturesque wine region saw its first vine plantations in 1960’s, however, its growth as a wine region was slow during this time. Rather, in the 1990’s, its wine industry began to flourish with large winegrowers expanding their vineyards owing to the increasing demand. Thus, they started producing wines on large scale while not compromising with the quality. This made it the last but one of the most premium wine regions to receive Geographical Indication in SA.
A Walk Through the Vineyards
This small land parcel is often considered as an extension of the famous Coonawarra wine region, inheriting its terra rossa soil. A very rare type of soil which is known to lend the wine an impressive structure and balance.
Along with this, Wrattonbully enjoys a maritime climate ideal for growing wines. Located on a slope, the vineyards are well exposed to sunlight which gives it an edge over the neighbouring Coonawarra and Padthaway wine regions. No doubt that the top wineries struggle to find a place in this region.
The Heart of Wrattonbully – Red Wines
A gift to the country’s wine industry, Wrattonbully has especially gained popularity for its red wines. Cabernet Sauvignon, being highest produced varietal in the region, shows a complex and soft tannin structure brimming with ripe berry flavours and subtle minerality. It’s followed by Shiraz, the second most harvested varietal, and Merlot. The region is also home to some alternative varieties like Tempranillo and white wines, though not widely harvested. Said that, Chardonnay has still gained place in the must try list for its juicy lemon flavours and a good acidity.
