©SAWIA
Kangaroo Island is a wine region included within the Fleurieu wine zone. It is located 70 miles (112km) off the coast of South Australia. Officially given GI (Geographical Indication) status in 2000, Kangaroo Island is one of Australia's youngest demarcated wine regions. Because the island is a major tourist destination its wine industry has a ready market for its products, although Kangaroo Island wines are also increasingly highly regarded outside the region.
Unsurprisingly, the island's climate is strongly maritime, with the Southern Ocean's influence profoundly affecting grape-growing conditions here. The moderating effects of the ocean, in addition to the region's cool south-easterly winds, keep average temperatures during the growing season much lower (at around 77F/25C) than those experienced in South Australia's inland regions. Winter temperatures are equally mild. The best vineyard sites are located on gentle north-facing slopes.
Kangaroo Island specializes in producing Bordeaux-style blends from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, which thrive in these mild conditions. When matched to the right site-specific conditions, these grapes can produce wines of real distinction. Other prominent varieties include Shiraz, Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier.
