By Kerrie Lush
Six Riverland wines are being featured at the prestigious London International Wine Fair this week (May 3-5).
They’ll be offered in a “Gems of the Riverland” masterclass and tasting – presented by Adelaide’s Master of Wine Philip Reedman.
The prestigious London Wine Fair is an important launch pad for new wines and businesses entering the United Kingdom market.
Riverland Wine executive officer, Chris Byrne says it’s the first time wine from the Riverland has been on offer at the London event.
Whistling Kite Biodynamic Wines to be featured at London Wine Fair
“This exposure is the result of ongoing collaboration with national industry body Wine Australia,” says Chris.
“Philip Reedman is well-recognised globally as a Master of Wine.
“He’s also from Adelaide and has a real affinity for Riverland Wine.”
Jenny and Eric Semmler from 919 Wines. Their Durif wine will be featured at the London Wine Fair
Riverland wineries participating include 919 Wines, Bassham Wines, Byrne Vineyards, Kingston Estate Wines, Mallee Estate Wines and Whistling Kite Wines (Main story picture shows rainbow over Whistling Kite Vineyard nestled on the banks of the River Murray).
It’s an opportunity to showcase a number of alternative varieties including Durif, Chenin Blanc, Montepulciano, Lagrein and Muscatel, which are growing in popularity among local winegrape growers, winemakers and consumers.
Bruce Bassham from Bassham Wines. Legrein is one of the wines on offer at the London Wine Fair
About 13,000 other wines from around the world will be featured at this year’s event.
The masterclass at the London Wine Fair is limited to 85 pre-sold tickets and is marketed towards winetraders.
“It’s a great opportunity for the Riverland region,” Chris adds.
Mallee Estate’s winemaker and manager Jim Markeas has been growing the Spanish grape variety, Tempranillo, in his Renmark vineyard since 2000.
His 2013 drop, which he describes as a medium to full-bodied wine which goes well with pasta, red meat and game, is his winery’s offering to the UK masterclass and tasting.
Arthur, Eleni, Peter and Jim at Mallee Estates
“We don’t currently export to the UK so these master classes and tastings in London are all about getting our brand out there and showing the world what we do and what we’re proud of,” Jim says.
“There’s more to us than the mainstream varieties, a lot of small wineries here are experimenting with these alternative varieties which are well suited to our climate.
“There are a lot of hidden gems in the Riverland.”
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