The Cowra wine region was first planted with vines in 1973 and is now home to more than 40 vineyards. The region is defined by its warm days, cool nights and dry late summers, which provide perfect conditions for ripening wine grapes.
Cowra is proving to be one of many emerging Australian wine regions to discover. The town itself offers genuine country hospitality, delicious food and wine, amazing natural attractions and a fascinating history.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
These show the full expression of ripe fruit characteristics of darkberries, chocolate and eucalypt. The tannins are smooth and carry the fruit of the wine well. They are renowned for their easy drinking and approachability.
Chardonnay
By far the most important wine of the region, Chardonnay is invariably generously flavoured. In younger wines, yellow peach and ripe fig flavours tend to dominate and a degree of French oak influence is frequently encountered. However, some older wines of this variety are demonstrating a capacity to develop into ultra-rich, honey and buttered toast styles.
Shiraz
With increased age of vines in the area, the red wines are starting to show depth of flavour and colour. Shiraz has performed extremely well, with the wines showing ripe fruit characters as well as some earthy and peppery notes. Some experimenting has been done with blending Shiraz and Viognier and this is showing promising results.
Other Red Wines
Some success is being seen with Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Grenache and Mouverdre.
- The climate is warm and dry, with the mean January temperature of 23.55ºC (74ºF).
- Growing season rainfall is relatively moderate but relative humidity is low, reflecting the Continental nature of the climate.
- Spring frosts mean that careful site selection is required.
- The vineyards are situated on gentle slopes within two valleys cut into the western side of the Great Dividing Range by the Lachlan and Belubula rivers.
- The soils are brownish loamy sand to clay loam on the surface, with red clay subsoils.
- They are moderately acidic and vary from low to moderately fertile.