Cowra Region

Location
Zone - Central Ranges
State - New South Wales


Map Reference
Latitude 33 degrees and 50 minutes South
Longitude 148 degrees and 41 minutes East


Elevation
300 metres above sea level

Subregions
Nil

Introduction
Rolling hills with their sweeping landscape are predominantly grazing. But since 1973, when Cowra Estate planted the first vines in the region, Cowra has grown tremendously in importance as a region.

The 1990's saw a major expansion, with a number of larger companies relentlessly planting new vineyards. It is a predominantly white wine region specialising in full-flavoured well-priced Chardonnay. The vineyards are to be found on gentle slopes within a wide valley cutting into the western side of the Great Dividing Range.

Given the rate of growth in plantings it won't be long before Cowra emerges as a region with an increasing number of wineries and cellar-door operations that draw tourists, in turn creating a demand for tourists.

Primary Grape Varieties

White

Chardonnay 535 ha
Semillon 80 ha
Verdelho 55 ha
Sauvignon Blanc 30 ha
Other 20 ha
Total White 720 ha


Red
Shiraz 230 ha
Cabernet Sauvignon 110 ha
Merlot 35 ha
Pinot Noir 30 ha
Cabernet Franc 20 ha
Other 5 ha
Total Red 430 ha

Primary Wine Styles

Chardonnay
The most important wine of the region, always liberally flavoured and relatively quick maturing. In younger wines peach and ripe fig flavours tend to dominate with the support of American oak influence is applied.

Red Wines
Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Franc have all been made here. Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz are pleasantly soft and easily accessible.