For many people, Australian wine means Shiraz. And while there’s no denying its star power, there’s a growing wave of winemakers exploring other grapes, many of them Mediterranean in origin that are thriving in Australian soil and climate.

These emerging varietals are helping reshape the identity of Australian wine, offering freshness, adaptability, and exciting new flavour profiles. Whether it’s due to shifting tastes, climate pressures, or simple curiosity, they’re gaining ground fast.

Why Look Beyond the Classics?

Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay will always have a place here, but alternative varietals offer something different:

• Adaptability to warm, dry conditions
• Natural acidity and freshness
• A sense of vibrancy and novelty
• More sustainable growing potential in some regions

They also expand the flavour conversation, bringing in savoury notes, herbal edges, and lighter structures that suit modern palates and food styles.

What Grapes Are We Talking About?

Here are some of the most promising grapes you might start seeing more often or already are.

Fiano
Origin: Southern Italy
Style: Medium-bodied white with pear, citrus, and almond notes. Great texture.
Growing Regions: Riverland, McLaren Vale, Hunter, King Valley
Why It’s Gaining Ground: Naturally handles heat and retains acidity, fresh and food-friendly.

Vermentino
Origin: Sardinia/Corsica
Style: Crisp, dry white with lemon, herbs, and a slightly salty finish
Growing Regions: Riverland, Clare Valley, Heathcote
Why It’s Gaining Ground: Heat tolerant, vibrant, and versatile with seafood.

Tempranillo
Origin: Spain
Style: Medium-bodied red with red fruit, leather, and earthy spice
Growing Regions: McLaren Vale, Heathcote, Canberra
Why It’s Gaining Ground: Early ripening and well-suited to Australian sun.

Nero d’Avola
Origin: Sicily
Style: Plush red with dark berries, spice, and smooth tannins
Growing Regions: Riverland, Barossa, Langhorne Creek
Why It’s Gaining Ground: Drought-hardy, juicy, and great for chillable reds.

Grüner Veltliner
Origin: Austria
Style: White with citrus, white pepper, and stone fruit
Growing Regions: Adelaide Hills, Canberra District
Why It’s Gaining Ground: Complex yet approachable, and excellent with food.

What to Expect in the Glass

Many of these varietals are made in lighter, fresher styles, often unoaked, naturally expressive, and designed for drinking young. They’re often lower in alcohol and higher in acidity, which makes them flexible with food and suited to warmer weather.

You might also find more experimentation, skin contact, pét-nat, minimal intervention, all part of the broader shift in Australia’s wine culture.

Final Sip

Australian wine is evolving. While its roots run deep in tradition, Australian wine is branching outward, embracing grapes that bring fresh flavours, new stories, and exciting possibilities. If you’re ready to explore beyond the familiar, these emerging varietals are a great place to start.