Thirsty In Australia
Although Australian have been known to be large beer drinkers, we are also lovers of fine wine. There are approximately 10,000 different varieties of Australian wines, as well as alcoholic lemonade made from Australian lemon crops, and a beverage made from rhubarb. You can also purchase imported wines, beers or spirits, however when you are there it is highly recommended that you purchase an Australian brand. There are also many non alcoholic drinks for those that prefer to take the healthy route or are nominated as the designated driver.
White Wine: This was the first wine introduced to Australians in the 1960’s. Prior to white wine, Australian tended to fancy the sweeter tasting wines, such as a Moselle type of wine. Later they became fond of the drier styles like Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
Red Wine: Australia’s benchmark red is Grange Hermitage, the creation of the late vintner Max Schubert in the 1950s.He preferred wines that required at least a decades cellaring. In contrast, Wolf Blass, a winemaker o the current style, championed the drink now approach with quickly maturing wines. Winemakers frequently blend wines from different districts and states. Lighter reds which may be served chilled have recently been introduced.
Beer: Australian beer is vat fermented real ale or lager, consumed chilled. At full strength is has an alcohol content of around 4.8 percent, while light beers have less then 3 percent. Some of the more popular lagers and stouts of today are James Boag and Cascade from Tasmania,Castlemain XXXX from Queensland, Fosters and Victoria Bitter (VB) from Victoria, Tooheys red and blue labels from New South Wales and Coopers Sparkling Ale (known locally as lunatic soup) from South Australia.
Spirits: Dark and white rums are produced from Queensland sugar cane plantations. Some the the more notable labels include Bundaberg and Beenleigh. Domestic brandies are produced from some of Australia’s finest grape vintage. Popular brandy labels include St. Agnes and Hardy’s.
The one thing to remember is that it is okay to enjoy yourself but you must not drive after drinking EVER! Please designate someone as the driver for the evening or hire a car service. It’s the only way to keep a happy and fun evening safe as well.