Travel Guide Adelaide Hills

Located 15 km south-east of Adelaide, Adelaide Hills is one of the most important areas of wine production in fresh climate. She was the first to produce in Southern Australia since 1841 (the first vines were planted in 1839) and then export, thanks to a certain Walter Duffield who sent a gift to Queen Victoria of Echunga Wine in 1845.In the 1850 s, mainly seedlings were sought at early maturity, for acclimatise at the fresh slopes of the hills. In the 1860 s, more than 200 domains, Anglo-Saxon and German, were registered in the Adelaide Hills. The Adelaide Hills production reached 720   000 liters in 1871 for 600   ha.But in the 1920 s, it almost stopped because of the changing tastes of consumers and the fall in exports. This disaffection continued until the 1970 s. For ten years, these wines have been in grace. Currently, there are more than 180 breeders and 35 appellations.This region is part of Mount Lofty Ranges, the altitude is greater than 400 m and the highest point is Mount Lofty at 727   m. The steep hills, usually fresh and green, allow the vine to grow beyond 400 m altitude. Soils are generally relatively fertile, composed of more or less light clays. Precipitation varies, but is stronger in winter and spring. It must be done by watering. The abundance of valleys creates multiple microclimates favourable to the diversity of production.Varieties. The constraints on the ground give rise to a culture on small plots of land with high-quality typical favouring the quality and great know-how which have contributed to the rebirth of this region. The altitude and freshness allow for the production of sparkling wines. The Hills red wines are more refined and elegant than those of the Barossa Valley. Whites are more fresh and vivid than most Australian wines, getting closer to European riesling. They are generally highly aromatic, with good acidity, elegant and balanced. Pinot Noir, Merlot, white Sauvignon, Riesling and Chardonnay, sémillon in the warmest areas and Cabernet sauvignon, the Cabernet franc, from the mill at lower altitudes are found. Some tests are made with Pinot gris and viognier. The best areas are Petaluma, Shaw & Smith and Animorphic Vineyard.