Yet two sommeliers who attended the session each said that consumers seeking new styles of wines and new tastes are finding these regionally distinctive wines to their liking and are willing to try them.
The U.S. is an important market for us, said Paul Henry, general manager of market development at Australian Wine and Brandy Corp. Australians have already shown they love these wines, so we really dont have a major problem selling them at home. But were proud of them. Thats why were here.
The Master Class, which has already been held in Las Vegas, will make stops in four more U.S. cities as the Aussies gear up to send us more interesting regional wines.
Wine of the Week: 2007 Wakefield Riesling, Clare Valley ($17) -- This was one of the highlights of the Australian wine event. The aroma has brisk flavors of minerals, grapefruit, lime, and pear, and the taste is typically bone dry. A great accompaniment for oysters or simple grilled seafood.