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South Australia - Mount Lofty Ranges Zone - Clare Valley

Q: Which varieties are planted in Clare Valley, Australia. What is special about their growing environment?

Black varieties 72%; Shiraz almost half of those; also Cabernet Sauvignon ; distinctive mint and eucalyptus. White variety Riesling is well-known, over 25% of total plantings; age-worthy wines

4 important questions on South Australia - Mount Lofty Ranges Zone - Clare Valley

What is unique about the climate of Clare Valley, Australia?

It has a warm, moderately continental climate.
Located on the northern part of Mount Lofty Ranges.
It is warm but tempered by cool afternoon breezes and cold nights
Wide diurnal range to slow ripening and retain acidity in the grapes.
Rain falls mainly in winter. Dams are build for irrigation.
Humidity is low, therefore risk of fungal diseases is low.
ideal for Riesling

Where are the vineyards planted in Clare Valley, Australia

At 300-500m above sea level.
Various microclimates due to ridges, hills and valleys.
White grapes: higher altitude
Black grapes: on lower, warmer sites.
Mostly machine-harvested

Which varieties are planted in Clare Valley, Australia. What is special about their growing environment?

Black varieties 72%; Shiraz almost half of those; also Cabernet Sauvignon; distinctive mint and eucalyptus.
White variety Riesling is well-known, over 25% of total plantings; age-worthy wines

Clare Valley Riesling is well-known. What makes it so unique?

White variety Riesling is over 25% of total plantings
Needs to be protected from sunburn; region has intense sunlight and low latitude.
Thick canopy needed.
Dry fermented with trademark lime aromas
Higher acidity than Eden Valley
Different soil types:

Polish hill: slate, low in fertility, less aromatic, flintier style, develops honey and toast.
Watervale: limestone soils, more fertile, more aromatic, floral style.