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Other varieties

Barossa is a region of extraordinary diversity, where classic varieties thrive alongside innovative new plantings. While Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Mataro, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Semillon have long defined the region, Barossa’s winemakers are continually exploring new flavours and styles.

Mediterranean Reds: The next generation

Barossa’s warm, dry climate has made it an ideal home for Mediterranean red varieties, many of which are now gaining recognition for their distinctive character and food-friendly appeal.

Tempranillo

Barossa’s warm, dry climate has made it an ideal home for Mediterranean red varieties, many of which are now gaining recognition for their distinctive character and food-friendly appeal.

Sangiovese

A staple in Italy, Sangiovese’s bright acidity and red berry flavours translate beautifully in Barossa, often crafted as a varietal wine or blended with Shiraz for added depth.

Touriga Nacional

Originally from Portugal, this variety was historically used for fortified wines but is now producing deeply coloured, floral, and richly textured dry reds.

Zinfandel

Known for its bold, juicy character, Barossa Zinfandel offers dark berry fruit, spice, and a plush, generous palate.

Petit Verdot

Traditionally a blending grape in Bordeaux, Petit Verdot is increasingly bottled as a single varietal in Barossa, showcasing intense colour, firm tannins, and deep black fruit flavours.

Durif (Petite Sirah)

This powerhouse grape produces full-bodied, deeply concentrated wines with firm tannins and bold black fruit and spice notes.

White Varieties: Beyond the classics

While Eden Valley Riesling and Barossa Chardonnay dominate, other white varieties are flourishing, offering refreshing alternatives with unique personalities.

Viognier

A Rhône Valley variety that produces full-bodied, perfumed wines with apricot, honeysuckle, and spice notes. Some winemakers blend a small portion into Shiraz to add floral lift and textural complexity.

Marsanne & Roussanne

Often blended together, these Rhône grapes bring texture, richness, and layers of citrus, stone fruit, and spice. They age beautifully, developing honeyed and nutty complexities.

Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio

A variety that offers versatility, from crisp, citrus-driven styles (Pinot Grigio) to more textured, fruit-forward wines (Pinot Gris).

Sauvignon Blanc

While more commonly blended with Semillon, some producers are crafting single-varietal Sauvignon Blancs with tropical fruit, citrus, and herbal characters.

Arneis

A rare northern Italian variety that has found a niche in Barossa, producing aromatic wines with pear, almond, and white floral notes.

Savagnin

Once mistaken for Albariño, this grape has proven to be a natural fit for Barossa, yielding bright, citrus-driven wines with crisp acidity and a mineral edge.

Sparkling & Fortified Wines: A nod to Barossa’s heritage

Barossa’s winemaking history is deeply intertwined with fortified wines, and today’s producers continue to craft world-class expressions.

Sparkling Shiraz

A uniquely Australian specialty, Barossa’s Sparkling Shiraz combines rich dark fruit, spice, and silky tannins with fine bubbles, making it a celebration staple.

Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains (Frontignac)

Traditionally used for sweet and fortified wines, this variety is also made into fresh, aromatic dry whites.

Gewürztraminer

Grown in the cooler pockets of Eden Valley, this aromatic variety produces floral, lychee- and spice-scented wines, often with a touch of sweetness.

Botrytis Riesling

Produced in certain years when conditions allow, these lusciously sweet wines are made from Riesling grapes affected by noble rot, delivering rich honey, apricot, and orange peel flavours.