Cool maritime climate/Elevation 1-200m Mornington Peninsula is located to Melbourne’s south. The region is virtually frost-free (because of its proximity to the sea) but is susceptible to high winds. Rainfall is moderate, even through winter and the growing season. Most of the vineyards are located just above sea level to 200m. The Bordeaux varieties do better at altitudes below 100m. Vintages can be variable but, in good years, Mornington can make some of the most sublime Burgundian-like Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. The Mornington Peninsula is as unreliable as Burgundy itself, often failing to ripen fruit adequately. Chaptalisation (addition of sugar to the ferment) is not an option in Australia, so producers can struggle. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Gris also show potential. Andrew Caillard MW, Langton's

<p><b>Yarra Valley</b></p> The Yarra Valley was first planted by the Ryrie brothers who explored a way through the Snowy Mountains to the Yarra Valley, planting grapes in 1838 just three years after the foundation of Melbourne. A wine industry (developed by Swiss Settlers particularly Hubert de Castella and Baron Guillaume de Pury in the 1850s) thrived during the gold rush era and heyday of the 19th century. However, the end of the gold rush brought the wine industry into decline and it was not until the 1970’s that the modern wine industry started up again. The region is probably Australia’s best-known cool-climate area, yet it is really a patchwork of meso-climates. This varied topography creates an incredible set of variables. Vineyards are planted on elevations of 50 to 400m on varying aspects and management programmes. The more exposed sites are subject to severe spring frosts and

Cool climate/Elevation 450-550m The Adelaide Hills, which run in a north-south direction, belong to the Mount Lofty Ranges. The region is a jigsaw of meso-climates with the best vineyards facing north or northeast in protected positions centred around the Piccadilly Valley and Lenswood. Rainfall is relatively high and spring frosts are a problem. The best sites appear to be located on steep slopes and at altitudes above 500m. This area is not immune to hot northerly winds. The soils are derived from schistic and sedimentary rock typically well-drained sandy loams over red clay interspersed with schistic gravels. The region is well suited to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot showing great promise. Andrew Caillard MW, Langton's

<p>Located to the east of Adelaide,the Adelaide Hills is part of the Mount Lofty Ranges. Considered a cool-climate region, most vineyards are situated at elevations between 450 to 550 metres. Rainfall is relatively high and spring frosts often pose problems. Hot northerly winds also make bush fires a real threat in the region. Adelaide Hills is a jigsaw of meso-climates, with the best vineyards centred around Piccadilly Valley and Lenswood in protected sites facing north or north-east. Soils are derived from schistic and sedimentary rock; typically well-drained sandy loams over red clay interspersed with schistic gravels. A premium wine-growing region, Adelaide Hills is best known for crisp, lively Sauvignon Blanc and elegant cool climates styles of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz.</p>