Torbreck Les Amis 2009

Winery: Torbreck

Varietal: Grenache

For many centuries now, vintners in the dry and arid regions of Europe have been growing the purple skinned fruits of the Grenache vines for use in a wide range of different wines. Their influence and popularity led to them being planted all over the New World in any region with the correct climatic conditions for them to thrive in, away from the damp or wet weather which causes this particular varietal to very easily rot. Grenache grapes are prized by many as a result of their spicy berry flavors, and the fact that they have a relatively high alcohol content in the bottle. This has led to them being often used as a blending grape, although single variety bottles are also common and make the most of their light body and interesting, rich flavors

Region: Barossa

Located near the city of Adelaide, the Barossa Valley is one of Australia's principle wine producing regions, benefiting as it does from the cool climate which typifies the sloping valley sides and the excellent soil that is found there. Founded by German settlers in the late 19th century, Barossa Valley has long since been associated with the high quality Shiraz varietal grapes which are grown there, and have since become the flagship grape varietal for the best of Australia's produce, celebrated widely for their intensity of flavor and dark, complex character. However, recent years have seen the innovative wineries which cover this region experiment with plenty of other grape varietals, and plenty of success has been found with Grenache, Chardonnay and Semillon, amongst several others.

Country: Australia

With over sixteen thousand hectares of Australian land now under vine, Australia has become something of a world leader in regards to wine production. One of Australia's key attributes to their success has been their willingness to leave traditional vineyard practices to one side, and develop techniques which are perfectly suited to a New World country. Modern Australian wineries take into consideration the climate and the unique soil types which cover much of their country, and have had fantastic results from cross-breeding programs and blending practices which make the most of the grape varietals which thrive most successfully there, notably the Shiraz and Chardonnay grapes. In recent years, Australia has been lauded as the 'most influential' wine producing country in the world, and the rest of the New World is looking down under for inspiration, and the ability to produce comparable fine wines on their own terrain.