Wine lovers, growers, and producers from across Australia are preparing to converge in Queensland’s Granite Belt Wine Country for the highly anticipated 2024 Australian Saperavi Producers Symposium. Set for the 6th and 7th of September, the event will take place at the Queensland College of Wine Tourism in Stanthorpe, showcasing the increasingly popular Saperavi grape.
A major highlight of the symposium will be the attendance of the Georgian Ambassador to Australia, Mr. Beka Dvali, who will present awards following the Saperavi International 2024 show, recently judged in Tbilisi, Georgia.
The two-day event will commence on Friday, 6th September, with the Saperavi Producers Symposium. This day will feature industry-focused discussions and will culminate in a conference dinner at the college’s Varias restaurant. On Saturday, 7th September, the event will be open to the public, providing a free opportunity for attendees to taste Saperavi wines from various Australian regions and to learn more about this distinctive grape variety.
Understanding the Saperavi Grape
Saperavi is a deeply colored red grape variety, native to Georgia, a country often regarded as the birthplace of wine with over 8,000 years of winemaking tradition. This grape is notable for its red flesh and dark hue, producing wines with unique earthy and beetroot-like aromas. Traditional fermentation often involves the use of ‘qvevri,’ ancient clay vessels that add to the wine’s distinct characteristics.
While Saperavi was relatively unknown to Australian wine drinkers until recently, its popularity is now on the rise. Innovative winemakers across Australia are increasingly cultivating this ancient grape, with regions like the Granite Belt, Adelaide Hills, King Valley, Barossa, and McLaren Vale leading the charge.
Why the Granite Belt Stands Out
The Granite Belt region, renowned for its Strange Bird™ wines, is distinguished by its high elevation and a focus on emerging, alternative wine varieties. Saperavi has found a natural home in this region, with local winemakers receiving international acclaim for their efforts. Ballandean Estate, for instance, won the Saperavi World Prize medal in 2018, while Ridgemill Estate recently earned two silver medals at the 2024 Saperavi International in Tbilisi, Georgia.
The Granite Belt’s commitment to innovation and quality has positioned it as a leader in the cultivation of Saperavi, making it a fitting location for this significant symposium.
