CentralVictoria">Victoria, as the name suggests, occupies the middle portion of the state's wine map. It is the most diverse of all Victorian wine zones in terms of the number of wine styles it is capable of producing.
Geographically speaking, Central Victoria is a relatively small zone in comparison to its neighbours, in Particular Big Rivers to the North. However the variable landscapes ranging from vast plains to moderately elevated terrains, Dense forests and the slopes of mountain ranges are attributed to the versatility of wine found here.
Unsurprisingly, some of the most recognizable names of the Australian wine industry have their vineyards in Central Victoria.
The zone is comprised of several regions and subregions. The large expanse of Goulburn Valley and Bendigo in the flatter northern part of the zone (on the border of NewSouthWales) have a warmer, drier Climate that is conducive to Rich, Heavy styles of wine. Here, Shiraz is king, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay providing other options for winegrowers.
The Strathbogie Ranges and Upper Goulburn areas are cooler due to their position among the mountains of the Great Dividing Range, and excel in more aromatic varieties like Riesling and Pinot Noir. Heathcote, on the western edge of the zone, is cooler thanks to the influence of the Mount Camel Range. These topographical variations mean particular grape varieties are suited to specific locations, as suggested by their GIs (Geographical Indications).
Carménère is a grape variety of Bordeaux origin. It is the result of a cross between Cabernet Franc and Gros Cabernet. In France, it occupies only about ten hectares, but it is also grown in Chile, Peru, the Andes, California, Italy and Argentina. The leaves of the carmenere are shiny and revolute. Its berries are round and medium-sized. Carménère is susceptible to grey rot, especially in wet autumn. It can also be exposed to the risk of climatic coulure, which is why it is important to grow it on poor soil and in warm areas. Carménère is associated with an average second ripening period. This variety has only one approved clone, 1059. It can be vinified with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It produces a rich, highly coloured wine, which acquires character when combined with other grape varieties.
red wines from the region of Central Victoria go well with generally quite well with dishes of beef, lamb or game (deer, venison) such as recipes of beef tongue in hot sauce, pasta with merguez or potjevlesch (northern france).
On the nose in the region of Central Victoria often reveals types of flavors of oaky, plum or oak and sometimes also flavors of black fruit, red fruit or non oak. In the mouth in the region of Central Victoria is a powerful with a nice balance between acidity and tannins.
