The King Valley Wine Region

The King Valley has a strong Italian farming (tobacco) and grape growing heritage.  Combined with its diverse geographical and climatic conditions, allows it to produce the full spectrum of wine styles albeit with an Italian bias.

The climate of the region is heavily influenced by altitude varying from 155m in the northern valley floors to 860m in the southern Alpine region.  This variance in elevation allows the King Valley to produce such a diversity of wine varieties.

Similarly to climate, soil types vary significantly throughout the valley, changing with altitude, slope and site characteristics.  The dominant soil type is deep red clay loams varying at times to grey or brown in colour.  Loam soils are particularly fertile allowing for vigorous growth in virtually all sites.

Dominant Italian varieties include: Prosecco, Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, Barbera, Dolcetto, Montepulciano, Fiano, Pinot Grigio, Arneis and Vermentino.  Notable traditional varieties include Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.

On a recent field trip AWC experienced the following cellar doors: Chrismont Estate, Dal Zotto Estate, Gracebrook Vineyards, Pizzini Wines and Sam Miranda Wines.