James Suckling released the Top 100 Wines of Australia list in December 2024, after its team tasted more than 2,200 wines. The list included 51 red wines, 45 white wines, two sparkling wines, one fortified wine, and one dessert wine.
Victoria contributed the most bottles, with 41 wines, followed by South Australia with 30 wines. This composition reflects the wide and diverse selection of quality wines produced across Australia.
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Types of Australian Wine by Grape Variety
Here are eight wine styles you may find by bottle at restaurants and wine shops.
1. Shiraz
Shiraz is Australia's most iconic red grape. It produces rich, fruit-forward wines with notes of blackberry and plum, complemented by hints of black pepper and spice.
In warm regions such as Barossa Valley, Shiraz is full-bodied with soft tannins. It pairs well with roasted ribs or a well-seasoned steak.
Interestingly, Penfolds Grange, the legendary wine first crafted by Max Schubert in 1951, also uses Shiraz as the primary grape. In 2026, the wine will mark 75 years since the first vintage.
2. Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon offers aromas of blackcurrant, mint leaves, and cedar. The tannic structure is firmer than Shiraz.
This character makes it a natural match for thick cuts of steak, roasted lamb, or aged cheese. Coonawarra and Margaret River are two leading Australian regions for this variety.
3. Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is light-bodied, with fresh fruit aromas such as red cherry, raspberry, and strawberry.
The delicate texture makes it an excellent match for grilled salmon, duck, or mushroom-based dishes.
Cool-climate regions such as Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, and Tasmania are known for producing Pinot Noir with clean, fresh aromas.
4. GSM Blend
GSM is a blend of Grenache, Shiraz, and Mourvèdre, which is often called Mataro in Australia.
This combination creates a versatile wine with ripe red-fruit flavors, sweet spice, and approachable tannins.
If you are looking for a bold red wine that is not too astringent, Kalleske Clarry from the Barossa Valley is well worth trying.
5. Chardonnay
Chardonnay comes in two main styles. Unoaked Chardonnay, with green apple notes, pairs well with seafood.
Oaked Chardonnay, on the other hand, offers aromas of butter, hazelnut, and stone fruit, making it an ideal companion for roasted chicken or pasta with cream sauce.
6. Riesling
Australian Riesling is made in a dry style rather than a sweet one. The profile is dominated by lime, lemon, and mineral notes, supported by bright acidity.
The high acidity allows it to age for years. Riesling from Clare Valley and Eden Valley is an excellent match for seafood, sushi, or spicy dishes.
7. Sémillon
Sémillon from Hunter Valley is harvested early to keep the alcohol content low, allowing the fruit flavors to remain ripe.
When young, it has a vibrant profile with citrus and floral notes. After several years of bottle aging, the aromas become more complex, developing notes of lemon curd and toast.
8. Sparkling and Fortified Wine
Tasmania is known for sparkling wine, as the cool climate helps preserve the fruit's fresh, clean acidity.
By contrast, the warm Rutherglen region in Victoria is famous for fortified Muscat. This rich, sweet wine has intense raisin and caramel aromas and is often served alongside dessert.
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Taste Australian Wine with Bistro Dishes at Loewy
Australian wine offers a broad range of flavor profiles for you to explore. Located at Oakwood Premier Cozmo in Mega Kuningan, Jakarta Selatan, Loewy offers an ideal setting to enjoy these wines.
With the iconic 15-meter bar at the center of the restaurant, Loewy serves a selection of classic bistro dishes with modern touches, from breakfast to dinner.
Loewy's Australian wine collection is carefully curated. Some of the popular bottles available include:
- Chateau Tanunda Grand Barossa Shiraz, also available by glass
- Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna
- Torbreck Woodcutter's
- St Hallett Faith
- Moss Wood Amy's
- Yering Station Pinot Noir
Our sommelier team and professional staff will be happy to help you choose the bottle that best complements your meal.
Bring your business partners, friends, or family, then make a reservation at Loewy for a business lunch, afternoon drinks, or dinner.
