Though not historically the case, the prevailing Australian red wine esthetic—reinforced it would seem by the style preferences of one or two highly influential wine critics—has become one that showcases size, dramatic impact, and concentration. At their best, these are some of the most powerful, majestic wines produced anywhere, and their numbers are increasing. In the past, Penfolds' Grange was the only Australian red to be routinely counted as one of the world's true greats; now the list must include at last a half-dozen that could reasonably claim that distinction.   More

Though not historically the case, the prevailing Australian red wine esthetic—reinforced it would seem by the style preferences of one or two highly influential wine critics—has become one that showcases size, dramatic impact, and concentration. At their best, these are some of the most powerful, majestic wines produced anywhere, and their numbers are increasing. In the past, Penfolds' Grange was the only Australian red to be routinely counted as one of the world's true greats; now the list must include at last a half-dozen that could reasonably claim that distinction.

Shiraz, known everywhere else in the world as Syrah, is by far the most popular red variety from Oz. But Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot are not exactly unknown either.   Less