We all know about the prowess of bold Aussie Chardonnay and Shiraz, but what about the country’s growing penchant for Fiano and Nebbiolo? In episode 281 of The Drinking Hour podcast, host David Kermode is joined by two expert guests to explore how Italian grape varieties have found a home over on the other side of the world.
Firstly, Brendan Carter, founder and winemaker at Unico Zelo in the Adelaide Hills, who is an expert in white grape Fiano, shares his knowledge on the Australian palate, how wines in his homeland have been decreasing in tannin to better suit the local cuisine, and how Chardonnay has swung to the elegant side. He explains how the flavour profile of Fiano differs down under (‘if Chardonnay and Pinot Gris had a love child’), and why this variety is such a good fit for the Adelaide Hills.
Next up is Brett Butcher, the founder of Soumah Wines in the Yarra Valley, whose estate is known for its use of grape varieties from Northern Italy, Nebbiolo included. He explains how the local fog that cloaks the vineyards is reminiscent of Piedmont’s famous weather hallmark, and how Nebbiolo, Barbera and Brachetto (‘it’s like liquid Turkish delight’) are making their mark in southeast Australia.
Discover more episodes of The Drinking Hour with David Kermode here.
