South Australia - Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is one of South Australia’s most celebrated places for its sweeping landscapes and exceptional produce, but has more recently seen the quiet rise of a diverse wine region and spirit scene.
Kangaroo Island is located 112 kilometres southwest of Adelaide, South Australia, at the tip of the famous Fleurieu Peninsula. Flights here are about 35 minutes from the South African capital, but most travel from Cape His Jervis arriving in Penneshaw (the second largest city in KI), which is 45 minutes from Sealink cars and caravans. choose to take the ferry.
Kangaroo Island is probably taken into consideration as a `newbie` to the vineyard scene (first mixing in 1982) however it has quickly grown to a cushty series of over 30 growers and 12 reputable vineyards —sufficient to spend a whole weekend tasting and nevertheless be thirsty for more. Highlights include False Cape Wines, placed among Penneshaw and Cape Willoughby. Founded and produced through award-winning winemaker Greg Follett, it is the biggest winery on the island, generating focused and very flavoured Cabernet Sauvignons.
THE CLIMATE
A maritime climate is entirely prevalent, with southeasterly winds blowing directly from the Southern Ocean and prevailing during the growing season, especially December through March. The average summer temperature is 25°C (77°F), significantly cooler than Adelaide. Low rainfall during the growing season makes small amounts of irrigation desirable. A high relative humidity of 64% means that the vines are susceptible to powdery mildew and Botrytis. Overall, however, the climate is mild and devoid of extremes, especially with uniform heat accumulation.
THE SOIL
Rolling, exposed hills with moderate slopes are common and proper match between site and variety is essential. As you might expect, given the variety of terrain, there are several types of soil. The most common color ranges from gray to brown and from sandy loam to clay loam. Iron gravel, quartzite, and rock fragments are present on and below the surface. They are well-suited to viticulture in arid regions, but there are also weaker sandy soils on steep slopes, which are covered with weathered microspheres that reduce water retention.
INTRODUCING THE WINES THAT MADE THE KANGAROO ISLAND GREAT
Shiraz
Cabernet Sauvignon
Malbec
Pinot Noir
Pinot Gris
