Australian wines have a style all their own. They don’t taste like wines from California, or France, or Italy. They taste Australian. And if you haven’t tried the good stuff before, then mate, you’re in for a treat.
While you’re at it, they also are excellent food pairing wines. We wanted to share how we love to pair a few of our favorite varieties with food.
A crisp, dry Riesling always pairs well with seafood. In particular, shrimp, crab, oysters, and most Asian dishes with spicy, sweet and savory flavors. The wine’s acidity can cut through the richness of these dishes. One of our favorite summer day experiences is to hang out at Circular Quay at the Sydney Cove Oyster Bar, enjoying Rock oysters and sipping a dry Riesling.
Australian Shiraz, although made from the same grape as Syrah, tends to be more bold and robust than their European and American counterparts. Many of the Australian Shiraz you find in the US are rich wines with ripe aromas. Fuller in body and higher in alcohol than Syrah, however that is not the case with Mywinehunter. We love to showcase Shiraz from both hot and cool climates and from very diverse terroir. In terms of pairing, Australian Shiraz is a natural for grilled steaks, lamb, and burgers. We also love it with Indian and Mexican cuisine. Our latest favorite pairing is homemade Chili con Carne.
Australia has been growing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes since the mid 1800s and have perfected the style. They boast sturdy but not overpowering tannins and are full of blackberries and cherries. One of the interesting differences between Australian and American cabs is the mint and herbs you find in Aussie cabs versus the classic green bell pepper you usually see in California cabs. Aussie cabs can stand up to rich, tomato-based pasta sauces or mushroom sauces, always get cozy with a rich steak, and pair well with dark chocolate.
The best wines tell you what you should eat with them. You’ll sip that Hunter Valley Shiraz and suddenly crave steak. You’ll have one taste of that Clare Valley Riesling and look for oysters. Let us know what your wine tells you.
The Perfect Pairings
December 11, 2023
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