What grape varities are grown in the Hunter, and what wines are they specifically known for?
Darby Replies
Like most Australian wine regions the predominant varieties in the Hunter Valley are Shiraz and Chardonnay. Semillon is also used widely here and is probably the variety that distinguishes this region from all others in Australia.
Hunter Semillon comes in two guises - a crisp and refreshing young wine and a more mellow and richer coloured aged version.
Other mainstream varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Verdelho is a white wine variety that is commonly used in the Hunter Valley to produce lighter fruity styles. It has the advantage of producing well even in wet and humid growing seasons.
