TripAdvisor names Barossa in top five for wine

Courier Mail, 1 Jul 2008  "Characterised by its visibly rich German heritage, along with its rolling, vine-covered hills, Barossa Valley is a uniquely beautiful destination for sightseers and wine connoisseurs alike."

Novotel Barossa Valley Resort's director of sales and marketing, Emily Howard, said "the Barossa has long been considered Australia's premier wine region".

"It's great to see this level of recognition for a region that continues to raise the bar of its wine, food and heartfelt hospitality".

State Tourism Minister Jane Lomax-Smith said the the announcement was significant because it was based on the opinions of "real" travellers.

WORLD'S TOP TEN GRAPE GETAWAYS

1. Bordeaux, France
Produces everything from delicious table wines to the most expensive bottles in the world.

2. Napa Valley, California
Has long been synonymous with superb wine and striking scenery. Home to nearly 400 unique wineries.

3. Tuscany, Italy
Famed for its reds like Chianti and Montalcino.

4. Champagne-Ardenne, France
The province is famous for the sparkling white wine that shares its name.

5. Barossa Valley, Australia
This scenic region in Southern Australia is famous for its Shiraz and other robust reds.

6. La Rioja, Spain
Most recognised for its outstanding reds, particularly distinctive because of oak ageing and flavours.

7. Sonoma Valley, California
Features amazing vineyards with particularly remarkable whites.

8. Valle Central, Chile
Enthusiasts are particularly fond of the Maipo Valley's cabernets and the Curico's chardonnays.

9. Stellenbosch, South Africa
The heart of the Cape Winelands region with more than 100 wine cellars to visit.

10. Marlborough, New Zealand
On the south island, widely regarded as the country's birthplace of winemaking.