Australians like our wine. In global terms, we rank 54th in population but 12th in wine consumption, according to Wine Australia.

But we like our wine less than we used to. The average Australian’s wine consumption fell 12% between 2020 and 2022, from 20.8 to 18.3 litres per year. A similar decline has been occurring in most of the world’s top 20 wine markets, “primarily due to health and wellness concerns”.

We’re also drinking less wine compared to other alcoholic beverages – wine’s share of throat fell from 19.1% to 17.3% between 2020 and 2022.

Not only are we drinking less wine; we’re also drinking different types of wine.

Over the past decade or so, we’ve significantly reduced our consumption of cheaper wine, also known as commercial or value wine. But we’ve significantly increased – although by less – our consumption of premium wine.

Five Australian wine trends

Nevertheless, wine remains a significant part of our culture. Indeed, Australians drink more wine per capita than any other English-speaking country, while 82% of that wine is produced locally (a higher share than in France).

For those who enjoy a tipple, here are five major trends that are happening right now, courtesy of Wine Selectors, Australia’s largest independent direct marketer of wine.

1. Shiraz is getting lighter

While Australian Shiraz styles have traditionally been big and bold, the current trend is to produce something lighter in style.

“Fruit-forward, medium-bodied Shiraz is really shining right now. The plush textures and approachability of these ‘nouveau’ styles make them super versatile and food-friendly, so they’re ticking a lot of boxes for wine lovers,” according to Wine Selectors.

“The Barossa’s St Hallett is one Aussie producer well and truly on board with this Shiraz trend. With a rich heritage dating back to 1944, they are rooted in tradition yet also committed to innovation and exploration, continually pushing the boundaries of winemaking to create new and exciting expressions. Their approachable, lighter-style Blockhead Shiraz Nouveau is a new twist on traditional Barossa Shiraz.”

2. Chardonnay is evolving

Fruit-forward Chardonnay is also having a moment, according to Wine Selectors.

“Of all the white varietals, Chardonnay responds best to winemaker influence. Aussie winemakers like Jacob Stein of Mudgee’s Robert Stein Winery is just one of many makers crafting sophisticated, modern Chardonnay, where natural fruit flavours take centre stage.

“This trend of fruit-driven elegance with minimal oak influence makes this style a refreshing and expressive take on the much-loved varietal. The resulting wines appeal to a broad range of palates while remaining elegant and refined.”

3. Oak is coming to the fore

Some Sauvignon Blanc wines and Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon blends are blending tradition with experimentation by incorporating oak barrel ageing, Wine Selectors says.

“Oates End is the featured maker of this trend. Cath and Russ Oates are the driving force of the winery in Margaret River, and at Oates End, innovation and sustainability go hand in hand with quality winemaking. Their Bordeaux-style white blend is a testament to their commitment to capturing the essence of the vineyard and pushing boundaries, with oak fermentation adding extra layers of complexity to the final product.”

4. Winemakers are embracing sustainability

Consumers are becoming more concerned about the environment and are increasingly choosing wines produced using environmentally sustainable methods.

“From vineyard management to packaging, the industry is evolving to meet this growing demand, paving the way for a more sustainable future in wine production,” according to Wine Selectors.

“Aaron Mercer of Mercer Wines is known for his commitment to sustainability and crafting high-quality, approachable wines. With an eye to the future, he sources grapes from sustainable vineyards throughout NSW, offering a diverse range of varieties tailored to adapt to a changing climate,” including his Mercer Wines Vermentino Bianco.

5. Alternatives are becoming increasingly mainstream

Wine Selectors has also observed an increasing preference for alternative wines, which are those that tend to be less commonly planted.

One example is Mediterranean varietals. “Hailing from sun-soaked regions like Italy and Spain, these captivating varietals include Fiano, Vermentino, Sangiovese and Montepulciano. Known for being great companions to food, they are enchanting wine enthusiasts with their charm.”

Hunter Valley winemaker David Hook has built a reputation for his alternative wines, which include Vermentino, Barbera, Nebbiolo and Pecorino, with his 2023 Pecorino being particularly notable.

Australia’s best cellar doors

Finally, for anyone wanting insight into the best cellar doors in Australia right now, sommelier Samantha Payne has shared her favourites with Gourmet Traveller. They include:

  • Voyager Estate (Margaret River, WA)
  • Brokenwood Wines (Hunter Valley, NSW)
  • Clover Hill (Launceston, Tas)
  • Devil’s Corner (Apslawn, Tas)
  • Dirty Three Wines (Gippsland, Vic)
  • Dormilona (Margaret River, WA)
  • Lowe Wines (Mudgee, NSW)
  • Ngeringa (Adelaide Hills, SA)
  • Oakridge (Yarra Valley, Vic)
  • Seppeltsfield (Barossa, SA)
  • Stoney Rise (Tamar Valley, Tas)
  • Taylors’ (Clare Valley, SA)
  • Usher Tinkler (Hunter Valley, NSW)