Photo: Lauren Trompp
The most significant out-of-state trade tasting of Western Australian wines took place in Sydney last week, attracting 280 trade and industry figures from national retail buyers, independent retail, distribution companies, restaurants and media outlets, showcasing 353 wines from 54 WA wineries across all key wine regions.
Despite accounting for only 5% of Australia’s wine production, Western Australia contributes more than 25% of the country’s fine wine segment.
Conversations with participating wineries at the tasting produced several themes, reflecting the dynamism and evolution of WA’s wine scene.
Winemakers such as Vasse Felix’s Tony Liversage and McHenry Hohnen’s Henry Wynne highlighted unprecedented demand and stylistic refinement in WA Chardonnay, reinforcing the resurgence of Chardonnay.
Many WA producers are also embracing a shift towards brighter, more elegant red wines. From Grenache at Swinney to medium-bodied Shiraz at Leeuwin Estate, the state is adapting to evolving consumer preferences.
While Cabernet remains foundational, wineries like Plantagenet are seeing growing interest in Pinot Noir and Riesling, particularly from cooler-climate regions.
From Margaret River’s Chardonnay and Cabernet to the Great Southern’s Syrah and Pinot, and alternative varietals from Geographe, Pemberton, Swan Valley and Blackwood Valley, the tasting was a celebration of regional distinction.
The day also featured two focused masterclasses exploring trailblazing wines, cultural icons, classical benchmarks and emerging styles that are at the forefront of what’s next in Australia with Erin Larkin (Robert Parker Wine Advocate), in conversation with leading winemakers, Vanya Cullen, Rob Mann, Brendan Carr, Patrick Corbett, David Moulton and Guy Lyons.
View the list of wines list here
The tasting was hosted by Wines of Western Australia, with support from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) through the Wine Industry Partnership.
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