The Big Picture

It is a welcome surprise to discover this premium wine region nestled between lakes in an unspoilt, rugged coastal landscape. Robe has a defined history in fishing, pastoral activities and tourism, with little viticulture prior to 1989. It has certainly made up for lost time however, and some observers believe its potential is as exciting as any region in Australia.

Vineyards were first planted in 1994 and several independent operations soon followed. Most grapes are transported to major wineries outside the region, although small processing facilities are being established within Robe.

Robe Wine Region

Climate

The climate is cool and strongly maritime, being influenced by the Southern Ocean to the west and lakes to the east. Winters can be cold and wet, but cool evening breezes are conducive to gentle ripening. The daily temperature range is smaller than for inland vineyards located to the east.

The growing season is long, cool and dry, with approximately 210mm of rainfall. The Woakwine Range offers a degree of protection from the strong southerly winds generated from the Southern Ocean.

Soil

Robe has a wide variety of soil types, ranging from terra rossa and sandy loam on the limestone ridges to calcareous sand on the coastal dunes and rendzinas on the coastal plains.  

Wines

Sauvignon Blanc: Has punchy tropical and grassy aromas so typical of the best varietals around the world and these aromas are underpinned by a palate that is pure, crisp and stacked with flavour.

Chardonnay: Offers fragrant citrus and apple aromas with rich but elegant citrus and mineral flavours and a natural acidity that gives the wines finesse and structure.

Cabernet Sauvignon: Has deep vibrant colour with varietal aromas of blackberry, tobacco, mint and mineral (earth). The palate has wonderful structure and texture with sweet ripe fruit characters. This variety seems to be well suited to Robe's maritime climate.

Shiraz: Rhone comes to Australia! Robe Shiraz is a complex and sought after wine with intense raspberries, mulberries and black pepper aromas. The wines have rich elegant berry fruit, a succulent mid palate that is framed by fine tannins and tight acidity offering a long spicy finish.

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