The Difference Between Local And Commercial Australian Wines

By Author: Edmund Brunetti
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Australian wine is among the best in the world. The country boasts a wide variety of climates, soils and grape varieties, allowing for a diverse range of flavours and styles. While Australian wines are often grouped together as one type, there are actually two distinct categories: local and commercial.

Commercial Australian Wines

Commercial wines from Australia are mass-produced and are widely available. They often feature popular grape varieties such as Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. These wines are typically produced in large quantities and are designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes.

These wines tend to be easy-drinking and fruity, with moderate tannins and alcohol levels. They are usually intended to be consumed soon after they are purchased and often sell for lower prices than local wines.

Unfortunately, the quality of commercial Australian wines can vary greatly. While a handful may offer delicious and complex flavours, most are fairly one-dimensional - lacking the depth of flavour and complexity of local wines.

Local Australian Wines

Local Australian wines are ...
... typically made in small batches using unique grape varietals, blending practices, and winemaking techniques. As a result, these wines often feature intense flavours and aromas ranging from earthy and herbal to fruity and floral.

Unlike commercial products, fine Australian wines made locally tend to have a longer shelf life, making them ideal for cellaring or gifting. Additionally, the flavour and aroma of these wines tend to improve over time, so it's worth investing in them if you plan on aging your wines for several years.

The best part about local fine Australian wines is that they showcase the terroir of a region or winery. By tasting and appreciating these unique wines, you can gain insight into the land from which they were made, adding to your understanding of Australian wine culture.

How To Buy Local Australian Wine

The best way to get your hands on a bottle or a case of local Australian wines is to visit a nearby wine store. A local wines store will typically carry a wide selection of products made by small-batch producers.

If you have no local wines store in your area, check out the many boutique wineries selling red, white, sparkling, and fortified vintages online. Many of these sites allow customers to sign up for subscription services that include a host of perks such as discounts, special offers and early access to new releases.

If you are feeling really adventurous, you can also visit local wineries in Australia's most popular wine-growing regions, such as the Hunter Valley, Margaret River and the Barossa Valley.

Which is Better? Local vs. Commercial Australian Wine

At the end of the day, you will probably get a better wine experience with local vintages than with commercial Australian wines. This is because local wines are typically crafted with more care and attention and feature unique flavours, aromas and complexity that commercial products may lack.

And don't forget to sign up for a subscription service to get your hands on the best local Australian wines. With a subscription, you can be sure you get the best bottles straight from the source.