The Limestone Coast GI (Geographical Indication) in SouthAustralia is located in the southeast corner of the state, bordering Victoria in the east. It is one of the most significant region of the country, producing nearly one-third of South Australia's quality wines – some of which are the most highly acclaimed in Australia.
The zone is regarded as geologically unique and the feature responsible for producing such high-quality wines is its soil. As the name suggests, limestone forms the basis of the soil here, best represented by the famous 'terra rossa' of Coonawarra.
The limestone soils are well-draining and Rich in nutrients, with a healthy water table beneath the sub-soil – unlike many other South Australian wine-producing areas. This means that most irrigation needs are taken care of, which is vital in the Dry ripening season.
Limestone Coast's Climate is cool maritime, with the northeast inner area exposed to some more continental effects. Altitude does not have a major impact on the local climate as the Grape-growing areas lie no more than 150 meters (492 ft) above sea level.
The lowest vineyards, near Cape Jaffa, are at an elevation of 10 meters (33 ft). The vines are cooled by sea breezes during summer, resulting in cool to mild growing conditions with a slow and Long ripening process. This extended hang time assists in the development of intensity in the grapes' fruit flavors.
A wide range of grape varieties of both colors perform exceedingly well in the Limestone Coast, but its red wines are of particular importance.
Pinot noir is an important red grape variety in Burgundy and Champagne, and its reputation is well known! Great wines such as the Domaine de la Romanée Conti elaborate their wines from this famous grape variety, and make it a great variety. When properly vinified, pinot noit produces red wines of great finesse, with a wide range of aromas depending on its advancement (fruit, undergrowth, leather). it is also the only red grape variety authorized in Alsace. Pinot Noir is not easily cultivated beyond our borders, although it has enjoyed some success in Oregon, the United States, Australia and New Zealand.
wines from the region of Limestone Coast go well with generally quite well with dishes of beef, lamb or poultry such as recipes of empanadas de carne (argentina), traditional tagine (morocco) or hawaiian pizza.
On the nose in the region of Limestone Coast often reveals types of flavors of smoke, cinnamon or tobacco leaf and sometimes also flavors of grass, anise or white pepper. In the mouth in the region of Limestone Coast is a powerful with a nice balance between acidity and tannins.
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