Robe is the newest wine region in the Limestone Coast of South Australia, attaining its GI (Geographical Indication) status in 2006. It derives its name from the historic fishing port by the same name and extends to the town of Beachport in the south. The region of Mount Benson lies in its north. The wine industry was a late entrant here with fishing and tourism playing a big part in the local economy but the 1990s saw a steady growth in vineyard plantings led by none other than the mighty Foster's group's Southcorp Wines. In this short period of time, this small region has established itself as one of the premium wine producers of Australia.
Like its northern counterpart Mount Benson, the region's climate and grape-growing conditions are influenced by the cool effects of the Southern Ocean which makes the ripening season, especially the summers, cooler than the inland regions in the east thereby extending the growing season. This is one of the reasons that the wines display similar intensity and depth as found in those from its northern neighbor. Altitudes of 164 ft (50 m) to 492 ft (150 m) also have a marked effect on the mesoclimate and specific wine styles. The Woakwine Range offers some protection from the cool southerlies and its slopes are vital for some of the red wines. There are many lakes which dot the landscape of the region providing a beneficial effect of moderating the cool temperatures. The soil profile also varies with patches of terra rosa, redzina (a dark fertile soil) and sandy loam over a limestone dominated sub-soil. All in all, site-specific terroir plays a huge role in deciding the quality and style of wines produced in the region.
Robe's growing conditions allow it to produce both red and white wines of high quality but Shiraz particularly shows great promise with vibrant juicy fruit, elegant tannins and a good acid structure thanks to the cool conditions. Cabernet Sauvignon is equally important. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are the most prominent whites known for their crisp nature, once again thanks to the acidity, and bright varietal flavors.
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