Wine regions - Robe

Robe   South Australia

The Robe Wine Region is the newest region to be officially approved by the Geographic Indications Committee. The region extends east along the Limestone Coast from Robe to Beachport in the east. The region is one to watch as it develops its reputation for premium grapes and boutique wines.

The white wines are noted for their finesse and good structure and the reds for their texture, intense, ripe fruit character and spicy aromas.

Vineyard plantings began in a substantial way in the 1990s with Southcorp Wines establishing extensive vineyards. Smaller vineyards have also been established. Most grapes are shipped out of the region for processing, however the region is developing its own unique style of wines with local wineries processing their own fruit and establishing cellar doors.

The main varieties grown include Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Chardonnay. Smaller parcels of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Viognier are also grown.

The region's coastal position gives it a predominantly maritime climate, with the cooling influence of the Southern Ocean, tempered by the Woakwine Range which offers some protection from the southerly winds. As a consequence most vineyard sites are situated on the lee side. Elevations in the region range from 50 to 150 m above sea level.

The region is also influenced by lakes, swamps and wetlands that again serve to cool the temperature. The January mean maximum temperature is 22.3°C and July's mean maximum temperature is 13.8°C making the region a good three degrees cooler than nearby inland regions such as Coonawarra.

Rainfall in the region is quite low with the growing season recording just 210mm and the overall total annual rainfall at just 667mm.

Soils in the region are quite variable. They include the famed Limestone Coast terra rossa, sandy loam, rendzinas on the coastal plains and calcareous sand right on the coastal dunes.

The region is Australia's newest and should be on the map of any discerning wine buyer and/or traveller. A number of small towns are dotted along its rugged coastline. The region is also famous for its crayfish and other seafood as well as its coastal beauty.

Visitors are well catered for in Robe and Beachport, with a variety of accommodation styles and restaurants, pubs and cafes. Between Robe and Beachport you will find the quaint little fishing village of Nora Creina. Robe is the main town in the region and makes a good base for visiting vineyards, beach going and fishing. In the evening spectactular sunsets and the local cinema can keep you entertained. If you like a spectacular coastline with dunes and deserted beaches visit Little Dip National Park.

In February Beachport has its Festival by the Sea highlighting the wine, food and arts of the region.

Harvest time: early March to late April

Photos courtesy: District Council of Robe and Robe Grapegrowers Association

Sites with more information:

• Robe South Australia
• Limestone Coast Food Group