There’s no wine that is more closely aligned to Australia than Barossa Shiraz. And you’ll find it here in every style, shape, and form. From inexpensive, tasty bottles to world-class collectibles, Barossa runs the entire spectrum. And while there are plenty of tourist trap cellar doors, there are also plenty of spectacular, well-run tasting rooms where any serious wine lover would feel at home. The best of these was the Artisans of Barossa.
Read MoreShiraz has long been synonymous with Australian wine. As the most planted variety in the country, it consistently garners a significant share of international awards and accolades. Classic Aussie Shiraz, which reflects Australia's warm climate, is characterized by its intense concentration, deep color, and robust fruit profile. This truly unique wine style has earned its place in the international canon of distinguished wines. But here in the United States, Shiraz has had something of an image problem. Many wine enthusiasts assume Australian Shiraz is poor quality, excessively sweet, and dull–essentially describing Yellowtail. But I'm here to tell you that there is a whole world of Australian Shiraz characterized by extraordinary quality, ageability, and deliciousness, all while staying true to the wine's classic style.
Read MoreRutherglen is a wine and region of its own. For those who are not familiar, Rutherglen is a classic, legacy Australian wine. Since the 19th century, a small group of determined producers has been making this fortified dessert wine in the harsh, continental climate of North Central Victoria. Everything you want in a wine region is here: a unique and distinctive style, generational winemaking, and an honest, incredibly tenacious community of winemakers determined to show the world the beauty that they craft. Take one look at Rutherglen winemaker Steve Chambers’ hands, and they’ll tell you everything you need to know about the fortitude and hands-on work of this incredible wine region.
Read MoreTime for a little self-admonition. Before actually traveling to Beechworth in North East Victoria, I had absolutely zero knowledge of its wine—or that the region even produced wines in the first place. Yes, I knew about Giaconda (a producer whose Chardonnay has a global cult following), but that was literally my only reference point. The day I spent here was absolutely eye-opening. I was jaw-on-the-floor astounded by the wines, their unique styles, and the incredible producers that are tirelessly working to put this footnote of a wine region on the global map. I am utterly convinced this is the world's best wine region that you’ve never heard of.
Read MoreThe first stop on my wine tour across Victoria was the Yarra Valley, located just an hour outside of Melbourne. The Yarra is a picturesque region where the suburban outskirts of the city give way to rolling green hills dotted with sheep and cattle. Creeks and rivers meander across the landscape, collared by eucalyptus and underbrush. The landscape features a blend of rural communities and opulent country estates with the occasional quaint, main-street towns that serve as centers for the winemaking communities.
Read MoreThis June, I got to experience the incredible diversity and quality of Australian wine firsthand. Spending two weeks in Australia, I managed to visit with 80 producers across Victoria and South Australia, tasting hundreds of wines and meeting the incredible people who craft them. Many of these producers have all the drive, attention to detail, and raw talent that you’d find anywhere in Burgundy, Napa, or Piedmont. So why does Australian wine make up less than 1% of the wines that we sell here at K&L?
Read MoreToday’s Wine News takes us on a tour of the most exciting producers in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa. Led by Buyer Thomas Smith, you’ll discover new takes on classic varieties and the winemakers who are making the magic happen.
Read MoreNew Zealand Riesling is one of the wine styles I find myself drinking more than anything else these days, thanks to the high quality and incredibly reasonable prices. Riesling is produced in nearly every major wine-growing region in the country and comes in a variety of styles. Most are off-dry with just a hint of sweetness, while others can range from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. With a variety of styles and QPR that is off the charts, I honestly can’t recommend these wines enough. Here’s a quick tour of New Zealand’s best Rieslings.
Read MoreToday's Newsletter is the final installment of 2022, and we're ringing out the year with a bang. Our buyers have all pitched in to compile a wide-ranging selection of holiday winners for every palate, price tier, and festive occasion. Without further ado, we'd like to wish you Happy Holidays and all the best over the next few weeks and into the New Year.
Read MoreToday's Newsletter gets us in the holiday mood with a truly all-encompassing look at our absolute favorite picks for pairing with a large and diverse holiday feast. Our best-in-the-business team of buyers has you covered with hand-picked selections that will shine in any holiday occasion, from the most casual, warm-hearted get-togethers to the most intricate and luxurious affairs.
Read MoreToday's Newsletter is an ode to summer in its dog days. Since we all know most of California has plenty of summer left, our buyers reflect on their favorite go-to winners that shine the brightest during the warm weather.
Read More‘Tis the season to throw some meat on the grill, break out some magnums, and gather the staff around ye olde parking lot. After a few strange years of no-to-minimal socializing (something we K&Lers do best), we’re finally able to gather again to break bread and enjoy good drink (another thing we do best).
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