Heathcote Region

Location
 Zone - Central Victoria
State - Victoria

Map Reference
 Latitude 36 degrees and 45 minutes South
Longitude 144 degrees and 46 minutes East

Elevation
 150 - 350 metres above sea level

Subregions
 Nil

Introduction
 This region is one of Australia's supreme producers of intensely flavoured and richly structured Shiraz. Its history of viticulture was devastated by the arrival of phylloxera at the end of the nineteenth century, and plantings did not recommence until the 1970's.
Primary Grape Varieties
White
 Chardonnay 20 ha
Other 10 ha
Total White 30 ha
Red
 Shiraz 340 ha
Cabernet Sauvignon 100 ha
Merlot 35 ha
Other 10 ha
Total Red 485 ha
Primary Wine Styles

Shiraz
The absolute dominance of the plantings tells the story. The style of Shiraz varies considerably across Australia, and it would be inconsiderate to propose that any one style is better than all others. However, few would dispute with the suggestion that the combination of soil and climate here produces world-class Shiraz with exceptional character. It is deep, rich and velvety, with cascades of black cherry, plum and spicy fruit, followed by ripe but fine tannins giving the wine texture and supporting its length. Such wines age superbly however the maturity is yet to be determined providing that most of the wineries date back to the mid 1970's.

Cabernet Sauvignon
The style is rich and generous, the berry flavours rich and intense - a wine which will unquestionably last many years. The wines flavour is abundant and concentrated with elegant structure.