Located on the Limestone Coast of South Australia, Coonawarra is a pretty flat area, except for the vineyards, which are somewhat elevated. That, along with the proximity to the ocean and clouds that like to hang around, Coonawarra never gets too hot. There is a small strip of soil, about nine miles long and two miles wide, called Terra Rossa, or red soil/earth. It is the coveted place to plant Shiraz & Cabernet Sauvignon in this small region.
Notable Facts
Cabernet Sauvignon is actually the grape of choice here. There is a good amount of Shiraz planted as well, and blends of the two are popular, but Cabernet grown in the Terra Rossa shows a sense of place, and the wines are in high demand. The wine is elegant in structure, with prominent acidity and firm tannins, but full of ripe fruit flavors typical of Australia's style.
